How to Build a Backyard Swing Set for Cheap
Avoid the high price tag of pre-assembled swing sets, and learn how to build a backyard swing set for cheap with this idea for kids!
Kids are expensive. First, it is the diapers, then it is preschool tuition (and still with the diapers). Followed by school supplies, travel soccer, cell phones, college tuition, and weddings.
And then if you’re like Zach and me you move back into your parents’ house multiple times to renovate fixer-uppers.
Wow, kids are needy.
Backyard swing sets are no exception to these expensive kiddo price tags.
Some time ago Wayfair asked me to write this article, and now I am sharing with you how we built a backyard swing set for cheap and how you can too!
For more DIY hacks be sure to check out:
How to Build a Backyard Swing Set for Cheap
Discover how to build a swing set for cheap with this hack, and create a backyard oasis of fun.
After the cost of lumber, composite wood, braces, hardware, and accessories some backyard swing sets can require the same financial investment as a small car.
Building a swing set does not have to be expensive, and is quite easy with the right materials and DIY instructions.
Consider this hack to build a swing set for even cheaper. Take the materials list and divide it among families to buy for a child’s birthday or Christmas.
Make building the set a fun family day, and be sure to give the kids each a job.
Materials List:
- (4) 4x4x8 pressure treated
- (1) 4x6x10 pressure-treated lumber
- (2) 2x6x12 pressure-treated lumber
- (2) swing set brackets
- (1) Horse glider swing
- (1) Horse glider brackets
- (2) Sets heavy-duty swing hangers
- (2) Swings
- Pirate ship wheel, telescope, and phone accessory set
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How to Build a Backyard Swing Set for Cheap
#1. Lay out the lumber and brackets.
Lay out each of the 4x4x8 ft timbers on each side as these will be the legs of the swing set.
The 4x6x10 ft timber will be the cross piece at the top.
#2. Screw the lumber into the brackets.
These swing set brackets will come with the necessary hardware. Use the included screws and first place the 4x6x10 cross beam into the brackets and attach it with the screws. Get those kids involved. Work hard. Play hard.
After the cross beam is attached lay it back and screw in the 4x4x8 ft timbers that will act as the legs.
#3. Attach the side supports.
Cut the 2x6x12 pieces of lumber and place them as the upper and lower side supports to help stabilize the set.
Place the lower side support at approximately 3 ft from the ground and the upper support at approximately 2 ft from the top. Repeat on the other side.
#4. Attach accessories as desired.
Attach any accessories such as this Pirate ship wheel, telescope, and phone accessory set.
A standard 10 ft wide swing set will allow for 3 swings. Design to preference.
Below is the exact materials shopping list. Happy swing set building!
Materials List:
- (4) 4x4x8 pressure treated
- (1) 4x6x10 pressure-treated lumber
- (2) 2x6x12 pressure-treated lumber
- (2) swing set brackets
- (1) Horse glider swing
- (1) Horse glider brackets
- (2) Sets heavy-duty swing hangers
- (2) Swings
- Pirate ship wheel, telescope, and phone accessory set
For more DIY hacks be sure to check out:
Pin any of the images below for later!
I have no kids, but I would absolutely loved this when I was one!
What size are the leg supports?
We bought the same brackets for the swing set my husband put together for our grandchildren! After 9 years, the frame is still as strong as ever. We’re buying new swings and a new glider this summer.
Ah that’s amazing! Love that.
I followed the parts list, but found that I needed 2 pieces of 2x6x12’ to support the legs as shown. A single piece is enough to have side supports only on the outside of the legs, but in my opinion, a second piece used on the inside at each side makes the legs stronger and seems to be the final design per all the photographs.
So, change the parts list, as follows:
* (1) 2x6x12 pressure-treated lumber
to
* (2) 2x6x12 pressure-treated lumber