Staining Play Structure
Play structures are wonderful investments for your family. They provide countless hours of enjoyment for children. A few hours of maintenance, is important in order to extend the life. To keep your wooden outdoor play structure looking good for years to come, apply stain or waterproof coating on it every 1 - 2 years to prevent water penetration and maintain its beauty. Also complete routine safety checks of all the swings, railings, slides, ladders and ropes for safe operation.
Drop Cloth
Screw driver
Hammer
Replacement boards (if necessary)
Wagner PaintEater
Mask
Safety glasses
Pressure Washer
Stain/Sealer
Wagner Control Spray
Rags
Touch-up brush
Extension cord
Step 1
Inspect the wood framing for any splinters, large cracks, rough spots, sharp edges, mold, mildew or decay that may occur due to wear and usage. If required, you should sand them down and make them smooth. Check over the boards that are damaged and may need to be replaced or repaired. If necessary, make any fixes.
Step 2
Remove all the furniture, flowers pots, toys, tables, cover the sand box etc. that are near the play structure so the working area is clear. Keep all children away from the working area during the course of the project.
Step 3
Pressure wash the surface of the play structure and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. Examine all the wood and make sure it is clean. Hand sand areas that need additional attention.
Step 4
Choose a quality stain. Determine how much you will need for the project and what color will look the best. Understand if you want an oil or water-based product. They provide equal protection, but will have different clean-up procedures to consider, along with the price of the products. In general water-based products will go on thinner and may need additional coats to get the same protection as oil-based products.
Step 5
Cover all areas that will not be stained, swings, railings, slides etc. Using a spray shield or piece of cardboard will block any stain from getting to unwanted areas. Selecting a Wagner Control Spray will provide superior control and low overspray and deliver quality results.
Step 6
Start spraying on cardboard or scrap wood to get a feel for the sprayer and flow settings. Once you are comfortable, work in a consistent pattern and cover the surface.
Step 7
Clean up the sprayer and properly store any remaining material.
Additional Maintenance for a Play Structure
- During the regular usage season, twice a month, make sure the play structure is safe for kids. Inspect all the nuts and bolts to assure that they are not missing, loose, or exposed. It is particularly important to check and tighten all bolts at the beginning of the season.
- Check the swing elements, swings, chains, and slides monthly for wear, cracks or deterioration. Inspect for any rust or chipped paint on any of the metal components. Replace these parts at the first sign of deterioration.
- Inspect for any missing or damaged equipment components such as handrails, guide rails, and swing seats.
- If you live in an area where the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or if the play structure is not going to be used, remove the swings and canopies to prolong the life of those items.
