Playground is a great place for our kids to develop and spend creative time. Regardless of whether the construction of our playground is predominantly made of metal, plastic or wood, it will still require regular maintenance. Properly preparing the playground for winter will keep it in good condition for years to come.
In this guide, we will outline how to effectively protect each of your playground elements so that they can survive the winter in the best possible condition.
Maintenance and impregnation of wood components
Wooden playgrounds are not only a great place for children to play, but also an interesting architectural element in our garden. Wooden playgrounds require special protection from weather conditions such as damp, frost and snow, which can lead to damage to individual parts. Whether you choose to cover the playground with a tarpaulin or leave it uncovered - we nevertheless recommend annual maintenance of the entire structure.
The first step to protecting wooden playground elements is to thoroughly cleaning of the entire structure. This can be done with a pressure washer, compressed air or simply with a cloth and mild detergents. Then it is a good idea to remove any cavities, splinters and unevenness using low-grit sandpaper, following the direction of the wood grain. This action will enable the surface to be prepared for further maintenance.
Once the wood has been cleaned and smoothed, the next step is to application of protective impregnation. This preparation will protect the wood against moisture and micro-organisms that could lead to mould and rotting of the material. For complete protection, impregnation is best carried out twice. Finally, the wood it is advisable to coat with a protective agent for external use, applying 2-3 coats. This treatment not only further protects the material from mechanical damage, but also improves its aesthetic qualities.
Protection and covering of plastic parts
Playground elements made of plastic, such as swing seats, slides and tunnels, although less sensitive to direct exposure to precipitation, can be susceptible to the negative effects of UV radiation and frost. Sunlight can tarnish and discolour plastic surfaces, and low temperatures in winter can lead to cracking and crumbling.
The most effective way to protect plastic components is to dismantle them and store them for the winter in an enclosed area such as the house or garage. If, on the other hand, dismantling the plastic components is not possible, other steps should be taken to protect them.
First and foremost, they must be carefully cleanedby removing any dirt and tarnish that could contribute to the faster degradation of the plastic when exposed to the weather. Next, it is advisable to shield these parts from the direct effects of precipitation and UV radiation. This can be achieved by covering them with special covers or tarpaulins made of opaque and waterproof materials.
Lubrication and protection of metal components
Non-movable metal playground components, such as support structures or connectors, are prone to corrosion and rust. To prevent these processes, it is necessary to regularly cleaning and degreasing their surface with extraction gasoline. After cleaning, it is advisable to coat these components with a protective agent or anticorrosive paintwhich will create a protective barrier against the elements.
Movable metal components, such as swing chains, are recommended to be dismantled for the winter period and stored in a dry place such as a garage. Before reassembly clean them thoroughly and lubricate the hingesto ensure their smooth and trouble-free operation.
Secure your wooden playground for the winter
Regular maintenance a children's playground for the garden is the key to keeping it in perfect working order and ensuring the safety of our children's play. By properly protecting elements made of wood, plastic and metal from adverse weather conditions, we will significantly extend the life of the entire structure.
If you decide to leave an outdoor playground, it is important to remember that its inspection and maintenance should be carried out both before and after the winter season. Doing so will enable any damage to be quickly detected and repaired before it develops into more serious faults. By following the above tips, you can be sure that your wooden playground will serve your children for many years, providing them with unforgettable moments of joy.
