Get matched with top playground equipment service pros in Boardman, OR

Whether building a playground or installing a pre-made one is more affordable depends on the materials of each. In most cases, it’s more affordable to build a wooden playground than it is to buy one and have it professionally installed, but it might be less expensive to invest in a pre-made plastic playground, even if you pay a professional to install it. Wooden playgrounds tend to last longer, but as children age, they will become less valuable. Overall, it may be most affordable to have a pro install a pre-made plastic playground.

Rubber mulch is widely considered the best material to place under a playset. This material option provides more cushioning than traditional wood mulch for added protection, remains cooler than sand and most other materials in direct sunlight, and it’s low maintenance. Rubber mulch is slightly more expensive than other common options at $120 per cubic yard on average, whereas pine bark mulch is $30 per cubic yard. But when it comes to your children’s safety, the investment is worthwhile. Consult your playground equipment installation company about material recommendations before starting this project.

You can start by finding playground installers in your area that have amassed mostly positive reviews online. Next, search for the companies on the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) website to see if any consumer complaints have been filed. Once you rule out companies with poor reviews and a history of complaints, contact the remaining options and ask the following questions to find the right installer for you:

• Will you pull permits if required?

• Do you offer a warranty?

• How long do you expect the installation to take?

• Do you have experience working with the specific playground material I want?

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.