How Long Do Commercial Play Structures Last?

By Kelly Robbins-Cripe

Choosing durable commercial playground equipment for schools, parks, and public spaces is always important to ensure a safe and long-lasting investment. A well-maintained indoor or outdoor playground equipment for kids can last between 10 and 25 years on average, while some high-quality commercial outdoor playground equipment can be stretched up to 30 years. The lifespan of a commercial playground usually depends on the materials used and how well the equipment is maintained which ensures both safety and cost-efficiency over time.

The durability of commercial play structures is also affected by the environment, frequency of use, and maintenance. Poor quality or neglected play equipment may need to be replaced within 10 years, while those with consistent care and regularly inspected structures can be safely used by children for many years.

In this article, we'll explore the key factors that affect the play structure's durability, maintenance tips, material quality considerations, and knowing when will be the right time to replace or upgrade your playground equipment.

Key Factors That Impact the Durability of Playground Equipment

Material Quality

Metal

Playground structures that are made of metal are highly durable but they can rust and corrode, especially in humid or coastal areas.

Plastic

Modern UV-resistant plastics are durable, but poor-quality play equipment may crack or warp with prolonged sun exposure.

Wood

Wooden play structures offer natural design but usually require more maintenance since they can rot, splinter, or become home to pests if not properly treated

Usage Frequency

Playground equipment for schools or parks has high traffic and may experience more wear and tear which can shorten their lifespan compared to residential playgrounds.
Frequent use can cause parts of indoor or outdoor play equipment such as swings, slides, and climbing structures to degrade over time.

Climate Conditions

Sun exposure can cause materials like plastic and wood to fade, crack, or warp.
Areas that experience excessive rain or humidity can make the metal parts rust and wood structures swell or rot.
Severe heat or cold can cause stress on the parts which can shorten the durability of the overall equipment.

Maintenance Strategies to Extend the Life of Play Structures

Playground sets for kids should be maintained regularly for their safety. Here are some tips to make sure that your commercial playground can last for many years:

Schedule weekly or monthly inspections to check for damage, rust, loose bolts, cracks, or splintered wood.
Lubricate swings, hinges, and any moving parts every few months to prevent wear and tear.
Clean the play structure surfaces regularly, and remove dirt and debris to prevent damage.
Keep the playground surfaces level, add material when needed, and ensure proper drainage to avoid water damage.
Apply rust-resistant coatings on metal and water sealant on wood to protect against weathering.
Regularly tighten bolts and screws, and replace any parts that are worn or stripped.
Use covers or shade structures to protect the play equipment from sun and rain, and perform seasonal checks.
Educate the kids on how to use the play equipment properly and encourage adult supervision to prevent any risks.

The Role of Material Quality in Ensuring Longevity

Play equipment that is made of metal is known for its durability which can last for decades with proper upkeep. Although it's prone to rust and corrosion in humid climates, with regular maintenance its lifespan can be extended.

Issues like rot, splinters, and decay are normal with wooden freestanding playground equipment but can be prevented with frequent maintenance. These natural-looking materials are more vulnerable to decay in humid environments since wood is prone to water damage.

Heavy-duty plastic play structures are resistant to rust and rot. However, plastic can eventually become brittle with continuous sun exposure. By combining quality materials, it can enhance both the durability and design of playground equipment, making it more enjoyable and safe for children.

This will ensure that kids can have fun while playing for extended periods, and encourage physical activity and social interaction within a secure environment.

When to Consider Replacing or Upgrading Playground Equipment

Public parks or elementary school playground equipment will someday need to be replaced or upgraded, even with the best care. Here are several major signs that show it's time to make a change:

Frequent repairs
Outdated safety standards
Visible wear and tear
Changing needs of the community

Upgrading not only extends the equipment's lifespan but also enhances safety and keeps kids engaged with modern play structures.

At AAA State of Play, we offer a wide range of high-quality commercial playground equipment that is sure to meet your needs. We have top-notch customer service, and even Certified Playground Safety Inspectors (CPSI) that can help, so you can rest assured that our team can help you address any safety concerns from installation to maintenance.