Get matched with top playground equipment service pros in Fort Madison, IA

It’s usually possible to install a playground yourself, but we don’t recommend it. Playground construction can be complicated and involves moving large, heavy, and bulky components into place while you affix them to other pieces. Not only is the work physically demanding, but any mistakes could reduce the lifespan of your playground and potentially put any children who use the equipment at risk of injury. It’s relatively inexpensive to hire a professional playground installer, and it’s usually worth the investment, if only for the peace of mind it provides.

Costs depend on equipment size, site preparation, and additional features like soft ground covering.

The average lifespan for a playset is around eight to ten years, but you can probably make it last to 15 years with good weather conditions and proper maintenance. If you’re purchasing a pre-made playset, some brands offer warranties for up to 25 years—long after your kiddos are grown.

Whether or not you need a building permit for a playground depends on where you live. Some municipalities will require a permit for the construction of any playground equipment while others will only mandate one if you use a concrete foundation for any portion of the equipment. You can check with your local building department or a professional playground installer to see if your project requires a permit. Some municipalities also require a fence if you have a playground, and fence construction will almost always require a building permit.