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Assemble/Install Your Swing Set

If you're going to have your swing set assembled by a professional installer, you can skip this section. Learn more about the professional installation process here. If you'll be assembling the structure on your own, here are some tips to make the process painless:

  1. Before you get started, lay out all of the wood pieces and accessories to ensure that nothing is missing.
  2. Read through all of the instructions to prepare yourself for the job ahead.
  3. Take your time to assemble the play set according to the manufacturer's instructions. If the swing set is large, you may benefit from asking another adult for assistance.
  4. Wear protective glasses to protect your eyes.
  5. Don’t fully tighten bolts until the swing set frame is square - it helps to have some wiggle room for bolt alignment while you are putting the set together. Secure all screws, nuts, and bolts after installation.

Required Tools

  • Standard or Cordless Drill w/ Phillips Bit (#2 square bit provided)
  • Drill Bits 1/8”, 3/16”, 3/8”, 7/64”, 9/64”, 11/64”
  • ½” Wrench and Socket
  • ½” Deep Well Socket
  • 9/16” Wrench and Socket
  • 9/16” Deep Well Socket
  • Level
  • Tape Measure
  • Extension Cord (if using standard drill)
  • Hammer
  • Pencil
  • Locking Pliers (Vise Grips)
  • Shovel
  • Marker or Tape

Choosing an Appropriate Site for Your Swing Set

Before you begin the installation process, it's vital to choose an appropriate area for the swing set.

Choose an area that:

  • is level and free of rocks, stumps, tall grass, and other ground protrusions.
  • has good drainage and does not collect water. (FYI - your warranty will be voided if your Gorilla Playsets swing set is installed in an area with poor drainage)
  • is free of any overhead protrusions such as tree branches, phone or electrical wires.

Note: ASTM Guidelines recommend a 6-foot safety zone around your entire play set. Add this safety zone to the dimensions shown for the Gorilla Playset swing set model you are purchasing. You are also responsible for obtaining any Homeowners Association approval that may be required for installation of the swing set.

Choosing What Material to Put Under Your Swing Set

The decision to use a substrate material under your swing set is a great one, as it significantly increases the safety level of your kid's play area. While manufacturers do what they can to make playsets safe for children, adding a surfacing material to the ground gives your playset an extra level of protection. Check out our handy chart to learn more about surfacing materials!

The best material to use under a swing set will vary based on your preferences and swing set height. Learn about your surfacing material choices below.

Loose-fill Materials

Loose fill materials are traditionally used in residential backyards. Some of the most common loose-fill materials include rubber mulch, wood mulch, sand, and pea gravel.

Rubber Mulch

The best loose-fill surfacing material for taller swing sets is rubber mulch. It's great for shock absorption, greatly reducing the chances of serious injuries during play. Rubber mulch is approved for decks up to 8’ tall.

Wood Mulch, Sand, Pea Gravel

For smaller playsets that sit low to the ground, wood mulch, sand, or pea gravel may be best. They offer sufficient protection from injury when used according to manufacturer instructions. These loose-fill materials are approved for decks up to 5’ tall.

Poured-in-place Surfaces or Rubber Tiles

If loose-fill materials are not your speed, poured-in-place surfaces or rubber tiles may offer the protection you need for your playset.

Poured-in-place Surfaces

As the name suggests, a poured-in-place surface is playset flooring that is poured into place and left to set. The appeal of this type of material is that it’s customizable, visually appealing, and protective. But keep in mind that pour in-material is not a DIY option - it requires professional installation.

Rubber Tiles

Rubber tiles are another option to consider. They provide both shock absorption and traction to minimize injury during play. You can install rubber tiles on your own or enlist the help of a professional.

How Much Material to Use

You will need to maintain a minimum depth of at least 9 inches of loose-fill materials (wood mulch/chips, shredded/recycled rubber mulch, or sand/pea gravel) for playset decks up to 8 feet high. Keep in mind that the surfacing will compress over time and will need to be refilled occasionally to maintain the 9 inch depth. Typically an initial fill level of 12 inches will compress to a 9 inch depth over time.

 

Learn more about how to maintain your swing set after installation here.