Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Cedar Play Structures

Q: We have a small backyard, do you have anything that will fit?
A:
We are confident we do! One of our "Space Savers" will fit in almost any yard, and still leave room for the surrounding safe area around the play set. Visit your local Backyard Adventures Dealer to learn about the ultimate space-saving flexibility of our compact play sets and accessories!

Q: How should I maintain my play set?
A:
You must treat your wood product annually with a stain or wood sealant. This is required for the warranty to remain intact. We used a water-based treatment when we made the products and lucky for you, we sell our very own BA stain in gallons or quarts. Prior to applying a new coat of stain, it’s ideal to pressure wash your set and allow it to dry thoroughly. Then, inspect your set for any rough, peeling or splintering spots and hand sand them until smooth. Make sure you tape off any metal or plastic parts or if you’re up for a professional touch, take the necessary steps to remove them before you begin staining. Brushing or “ragging” on the stain allows it to absorb more evenly than spraying. Be sure to read the instructions on the can of stain before starting; you don’t want to stain if rain is in the forecast anytime soon or if it’s too hot or cold outside. In addition to applying a fresh coat of stain or sealant, we suggest you check bolt tightness and all hardware periodically to ensure everything is in proper order. If staining your play set isn’t your cup of tea, please contact us and ask about our maintenance program.

Q: What are the thick timbers on my fort and swing beam made of?
A:
Backyard Adventures uses engineered beams for major structural components providing additional strength and durability. Engineered beams experience less checking and warping than tradition timbers. Our engineered beams are built just like the ones used in many commercial and residential construction projects. Our timbers are fully tested for outdoor use and come standard with a life-time warranty.

Q: Many of your competitors include monkey bars above the swings on their sets. Why can’t I buy it like this from Backyard Adventures?
A:
Due to a revision in 2009 to ASTM standard F1148, Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Home Playground Equipment, reflects the purpose of the standard, which is to reduce the likelihood of life-threatening or debilitating injuries. The revised version of F1148 no longer allows home playground sets designed with swings that attach to an upper body component (such as “monkey bars”).

Q: Does my yard need to be level in order to have one of your play sets installed?
A:
Ideally, yes. The flatter the area in which you plan on installing your play set the better. However, we do make adjustable height swing beams, monkey bars and Peak series forts that are designed to fit the unique contours of your landscape. Please contact us if you have any concerns about how unlevel your yard might be, we offer free site evaluations for local customers (some restrictions apply).  For customers not local, feel free to call us at 301-810-5657 or email photos of your location to info@BYAMidAtlantic.com.  We’ll take a look and see if we notice any concerns.

Q: What do you recommend we do to our yard prior to installing our new Backyard Adventures Play set?
A:
In order to help eliminate any possible problems prior to your installers showing up, please mark the area in which you want the play set installed. A nice way to mark off the area is by using your water hose or landscaping flags. Don’t forget to allow an additional 6’ parameter around the play set for a safety area. Also, mark any sprinklers in the area, pick up any toys and animal droppings within the installation area.

Q: Our slide seems to get extremely hot during the summer. Is there anything we can do?
A:
You probably have a green slide. Unfortunately, the green slides tend to absorb heat while the yellow slides reflect most of the heat. If at all possible, install the set where the slide will be shaded during the heat of the day.

Q: Our slide seems to have a lot of static and has lost some of its speed. Do you have any recommendations on how to revive it?
A:
If static is a problem, wipe it down with a dryer sheet or spray pledge on it and make sure you wipe it down well. In order to speed it up, a nice coat of Armor-All or equivalent seems to do the trick. Just make sure you wipe it down well so that your child’s clothes don’t soak it up.  Be ready, the slide will be super fast!

Q: I’ve noticed cracks on my play set, is this normal?
A:
Well, it depends. Wood is a natural product and all wood has its own characteristics, so natural variations in grain, color, checking and defects are to be expected. A "Check" is a long crack that appears as the sap wood of a timber shrinks around the heart wood over time. Checking is typically not a structural problem, and usually occurs only on one or two sides of a beam. However, if you notice any blatant cracks large enough to fit a quarter inside, then you may have a problem and you should contact us for replacement. At that point the structural integrity of your play set may be in jeopardy. Please keep in mind if you are the original owner, these parts will more than likely be under warranty.