Woodplay Playsets vs. Backyard Adventures
As you begin your search for the perfect backyard playset, you’ll soon realize there are many different options to choose from. In this article, we’ll be looking at the differences and similarities between Woodplay and Backyard Adventure playsets. And while we encourage you to do as much online research as you can, we’d also like to point out the importance of seeing (and trying!) the various types of playsets by visiting your local showrooms. This will also give you an opportunity to observe the kids playing on the equipment. If you have questions, you’ll be able to speak with a knowledgeable sales associate in person. This experience will be beneficial in comparing the equipment, determining which playsets the kids like, and taking into account the local dealer’s knowledge and experience.
Playset Wood Options
Woodplay and Backyard Adventures playsets are built with different types of wood, which is an important element in the quality of the playset. New for 2016, Woodplay playsets can come in California redwood lumber or cedar. Most Woodplay sets offer both options for customers, allowing the customer to choose their preference. Backyard Adventure playsets use cedar wood.
Both redwood and cedar are excellent options for wood for playsets, but there are differences that give redwood an edge when comparing the two. For many individuals, eco-friendliness is an important factor in what products they choose, and redwood has an advantage over cedar in this category, as in the U.S., redwood forestry is heavily regulated. Part of that regulation includes whenever an older redwood is cut down for lumber, another tree is planted in its place. The color of the redwood is known for its rich reddish brown look, although it can be lighter. The color of cedar is more of an amber or yellow tone. Redwood will also have a more uniform color, as compared to cedar. As they both age, their colors will turn to a silver-gray. Re-treating the wood will bring back its original color and appearance. Below is a great example at how re-staining can bring back the original brilliance of your set.
Before
After
Redwood is less knotty than cedar, the highest grade of redwood is almost free of knots. When it comes to the strength and durability of the lumber, both have the same life expectancy and are naturally resistant of rot, weathering and bugs. Redwood is a little harder or denser than cedar, which makes it less prone to being scratched, this is one reason it may be slightly more expensive. All wood requires maintenance, but some will require more than others. The redwood also contains a greater amount of natural oils, making it more resistant to weather and rot than cedar.
The wall panels on both Woodplay and Backyard Adventures are removable, which allows you to add many different accessory options, creating unique combinations in the play area.
Differences in Construction
The two playset manufactures differ in the structure of the key joints construction. Backyard Adventures uses metal compression clamps to secure key structure joints and many accessories. In some spots they will add wood gusset supports to lock components into place to help limit unnecessary movement. Woodplay playsets are engineered to be the most solid playset structures on the market today, utilizing their exclusive Triple Joint Construction. This process uses large timbers for corner posts and horizontal joists to join walls, and these timbers are overlapped at the joints to secure 3 pieces of lumber together with 3 pieces of hardware. It also has Notched Angle Braces with their wood-on-wood design to reduce the load on hardware and add structural support, which is another original Woodplay feature.
Backyard Adventures has a feature on the swing beam top board where a steel top plate is added to the top and side strips to give additional safety against board failure. A concern with this design is that it allows moisture to build up between the steel and timber, potentially weakening the timber over time.
Woodplay’s swings are made from tough reinforced plastic. The strong galvanized ¾” chains are coated with Plastisol to prevent pinching. Backyard Adventures ¼” chains are rubber powder-coated. Both have strong commercial grade ductile swing hangers, although they are different, both are heavy duty and strong. Additionally, Woodplay’s swing hangers are galvanized, this feature adds longevity to the hardware as well.
One discerning difference between the 2 manufacturers is their distinctive slide designs. Backyard Adventures’ Rocket Slide is designed with medium side walls. The slide narrows at the bottom and includes a plastic cone base that is attached with a bolt. Woodplay’s Super Slide design features high side walls that has a lip at the top edges, which the kids are able to grip onto when going up or down. The width of the Super Slide is larger than the Rocket Slide and maintains its width until the end of the slide, unlike the Rocket Slide. The Super Slide incorporates a scoop that puts the child into a safely seated position upon exit. It also has a wood support base, which not only adds substantial support but also allows for custom adjustment to the slope of the ground.
Similarities: Woodplay and Backyard Adventures
The similarities of the playsets are:
-High Quality Stain and Sealant
-Similar Playset Designs/Styles
-Safety Handles
-Large Variety of Accessory Options
Woodplay’s warranty is a Limited Lifetime Warranty on wooden playset components, swing hangers, swing chains, metal braces, metal rungs, hardware and slides. All other components are covered by a 5-Year Warranty. Backyard Adventures warranty also includes a Limited Lifetime Warranty on the wood, slides, powder-coated steel components, and hardware; 5 years on all other parts.
Finding the Perfect Playset
When comparing the Woodplay and Backyard Adventures playsets, it’s easy to see that there are more similarities than differences. When you visit your local showroom (like ours here at Recreation Unlimited in Noblesville, IN), you’ll be able to see a variety of playsets in person, as well as speak with a friendly associate about any questions you may have. It’s always a good idea to do your research before making any large purchase, and a playset is no exception. After all, you want to find the perfect playset to meet the needs of your family and your budget. If you’re ready to get started, or would simply like to learn more about the available options, give us a call at (317) 773-3545. We look forward to serving you!
