A wooden swing set used to be a very basic A-frame design with a duo swings suspended from it, in the present day; wooden swing sets include an assortment of special activities for your children's enjoyment. Recreational structures in the backyard are more popular today than ever and the assortment of brands and styles are vast.

Today's wood play sets are not your average basic concept, but elaborate structures intended as entertainment playgrounds for the children to enjoy. If you are looking large structures which are intended for the entire family to use, not just toddlers and young children and including mom and dad you will most likely need what is considered commercial upgrades on the play set as most are intended for children 12 and under.

Middle age school kids and teenagers alike, both will enjoy these playgrounds so don't be surprised when it becomes a favorite gathering spot in the yard. Teenagers enjoy hanging out with their friends, while they may not use the climbing rock wall or slide, they certainly will enjoy the swings and parents can easily keep a watchful eye. It's a meeting place for boys and girls and they will congregate around this type of playground and benefit from social interaction with their peers. Thus, making your home a teen-friendly place to hang out. You will be amazed at the age of kids that still use the swing sets. In order for the whole family to enjoy playing on the structure you will need to look for equipment that is almost commercial grade. The size of the lumber is crucial along with the weight limits, these are important factors so you will need to ask the questions before you purchase.

Here are a few key elements you will need when looking for if you are shopping for a swing set for the whole family to enjoy. Most importantly is having one built with, at least, solid 4 x 4 boards and made from strong lumber. This type of construction is stronger along with compression braces. The braces give the structure added durability. In order for the whole family to enjoy the swings you will need to make sure the chains are galvanized and hanging from heavy-duty, strong hangers, such as nylon bushing hangers or commercial grade hangers. Look for chains (individual links) that won't rust and that have been safety tested to hold about 1000 pounds.

There are numerous wooden swing sets available for children to play on where "adults are not allowed" kids love this rule. These models are readily available and for sale in online stores and there are some fantastic looking sets with fantastic sales. Some of the best looking sets are made from companies like Swing-N-Slide, Gorilla Playsets and the maintenance free "Monkey Playsystems".