Swing Set Site Prep: Do you need a leveled pad?

Ok, bear with an allegory about swing sets for just a moment. Let’s say you just got the car of your dreams, a real shiny, expensive piece marvel of technology and power. How would you treat this thing?

Now, I am not a car guy, nor do I really understand cars that much. However, I am sure you would fill it with the highest tier gas, skip the cheap car wash and go to detailers, and not eat fast food.

Now what does that have to do with swing sets?

If you are getting the swing set of your dreams, a very large, expansive swing set, you should consider having a pad created for the set. Like the sports car analogy, investing in the ground around your playset will ensure it will live up to its grandeur.

I sat down with our head of installation, Allen, and asked him questions about site prep. Here is his wisdom. These are not exact quotes, but they are close enough. His candor is not great for SEO-rich blog posts. 

What do you mean when you say a pad for a swing set? What does the ideal prepared area around the swing set look like?

“The pad is where we will install the swing set in. The ideal site prep is a 100% level pad with either compacted dirt or crushed stone.”

What types of sets benefit the most from a prepared pad?

“Smaller sets, such as Sea Kings or Cubby’s Fort, do not need pads. The sets that benefit the most from pads are big playhouse sets or sets with bridges.”

For example The Chateau or the Homestead

Why do you recommend pads for big playhouses or big sets?

“If we are installing on a prepared area, the set is level, and the installation is much cleaner, making the whole set looks much better. Show pictures of the Two Homestead set we did and contrast it with one not built on a pad.”

Yes, good idea, Allen. Take a look below. As you can see below, the installation of the ivory set is clean, neat, and looks amazing, while the gray set had to be dug into the ground. While both installations are sturdy and safe, it returns to the sports car analogy of investing in your investment.

What should people expect to pay for site prep?

“It can vary greatly depending on your terrain. If your land is already flat, it won’t cost much. It will cost more if the crew has to build a retaining wall.”

Does King Swings offer site prep?

“We sub out the work with some trusted contractors.”

How do people go about getting an estimate?

“Call our office here and ask to speak to me, Allen, and I will help them out.”

Thanks, Allen!

If you plan to do site prep, you must look into your local regulations. Depending on what you find, you may need a permit. This is your responsibility to research.

To summarize this interview, installing a pad is a great way to get the most out of your swing set. While it is not required, the installed swing set is much nicer to look at and use.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with our swing set design team. We would love to help you out!