A swing set is more than just a garden toy. It’s a space where little imaginations run wild, legs reach sky-high, and your kids can find entertainment for hours. But when it comes to choosing between a wooden swing set vs. metal, how do you know which is right for your family?
At Outdoor Toys, we offer both metal swing sets and wooden swing sets, with a wide range of sizes, features, and finishes to suit every outdoor space. In this guide, we’ll help you compare the pros and cons of each material so you can make an informed choice for your garden and your growing kids.
Wooden swing sets: Pros and cons
Pros of wooden swing sets
1. Natural aesthetic
Wooden swing sets blend beautifully into garden spaces. With neutral finishes like sage green, dusty pink, and grey, Outdoor Toys’ wooden sets are designed to look great in any garden.
2. Customisable design
Wood is easy to paint or stain, so you can match your swing set to your garden style or your child’s favourite colour.
3. More stability and weight
Wooden frames tend to be heavier, which helps anchor the structure in place, ideal for gardens where you can’t use concrete footings.
4. Lots of options and add-ons
There's scope for customisation and modular play, from single swings to wooden swing sets with monkey bars, climbing walls, and swings and slide sets.
5. Long-term value
With proper maintenance, wooden playsets can last for many years and maintain their visual appeal, which is great for resale or passing down to younger siblings.
Cons of wooden swing sets
1. Regular maintenance required
Wood needs annual treatment (like staining or sealing) to protect against rot, insects, and damp weather.
2. Vulnerable in extreme weather
Untreated wood can warp or degrade over time in very wet or humid climates. It's not ideal for coastal areas unless well protected.
3. Typically more expensive
Wooden swing sets often cost more upfront, although the extra investment may pay off in durability and aesthetic appeal.
Metal swing sets: Pros and cons
Pros of metal swing sets
1. Lightweight and easy to move
Metal swing sets are generally lighter and simpler to assemble, making them a good choice for smaller gardens or temporary play setups.
2. Low maintenance
Powder-coated metal resists rust and doesn’t need repainting or staining as often, especially useful in humid or coastal areas.
3. Built-in fun features
Many metal sets include unique add-ons like nest swings, up-and-over walls, rope ladders, or slides, perfect for adventurous little ones.
4. Better for tighter budgets
Metal sets are often more affordable upfront, making them great for families looking for budget-friendly outdoor fun.
Cons of metal swing sets
1. Can absorb heat
Metal playsets can get hot in direct sunlight, which may be uncomfortable for younger children, especially in summer.
However, the parts children touch most (like the swing seats, ropes, and grips) are designed with non-metal, heat-resistant materials. That means your little ones can keep playing comfortably, even when the temperature rises.
2. Less natural look
While bright accents in green or pink can look fun, metal swing sets don’t have the same wooden charm or ability to blend with garden landscaping.
3. Can rust over time
Even powder-coated sets may show signs of wear if the coating gets scratched or if exposed to extreme weather conditions.
4. Lower weight and stability
Metal swing sets are lighter, which can be a downside in very windy areas or for active, older children who need extra support.
What about safety?
Whether you choose a metal or wooden swing, both are safe when properly maintained. Outdoor Toys ensures that all sets meet strict safety standards.
Just be sure to check joints, tighten bolts, and inspect your set seasonally, especially after storms, extreme temperatures, or heavy use.
Final thoughts: Which swing set should you choose?
Both metal and wood swing set options are fantastic choices for creating a fun, long-lasting outdoor play space. It all comes down to what best suits your family’s style, space, and preferences.
Choose a wooden swing set if you’re looking for:
-
A natural, garden-friendly aesthetic with neutral or muted colour options
-
A swing set that blends beautifully with your outdoor space
-
Plenty of customisation options, from slides and monkey bars to climbing walls
-
A classic look with timeless appeal
Choose a metal swing set if you’d prefer:
-
A bold, colourful design that stands out and excites
-
Minimal maintenance and easy cleaning
-
A sturdy structure that’s lightweight and great for flexible garden layouts
-
Add-ons like nest swings, up-and-over walls, and slides for active kids
No matter which style you choose, both wooden and metal swing sets offer:
-
Safe, exciting play for children of all ages
-
Durable construction built to withstand harsh weather conditions
-
Add-on options to evolve with your child’s interests
-
Excellent value for families looking to encourage outdoor play
At Outdoor Toys, we’re proud to stock both options, so whatever your vision, you’ll find the perfect swing set to bring playtime to life in your garden. Plus, you can complete your outdoor setup with our huge range of garden toys, from climbing frames and playhouses to ride-on toys, sandpits, trampolines, and more. Let the fun begin!
FAQs for metal vs wooden swing sets
What is the life expectancy of a wooden swing set?
A well-maintained wooden swing set can last 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the quality of the wood and environmental conditions. Sets made from pressure-treated timber or cedar are particularly durable and naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay.
To extend lifespan, apply weatherproof treatments regularly and inspect for any signs of wear. With basic upkeep, wooden swing sets can grow with your child and even serve future generations.
Are metal swing sets worth it?
Yes, metal swing sets are a worthwhile investment for many families. They're typically more affordable upfront, low-maintenance, and designed with durable powder-coated steel that resists rust and wear in most weather conditions.
Metal sets are a great choice if you want a lightweight, compact frame with fun features like monkey bars, up-and-over walls, or nest swings. With proper care and placement, a metal swing set can offer years of outdoor fun with minimal upkeep.