Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the questions we get asked about playground Equipment

Are your garden swing seats interchangeable?

Yes. Each residential swing seat comes complete with a quality 12mm rope and a galvanised metal ring, this will clip on to any of our carabiner type swing hangers which means you can easily swap swing seats.

Can you provide replacement nets and rope for public playgrounds?

Yes. We use steel reinforced 16mm playground ropes available in a variety of colours and can manufacture any size net, rope ladder or replacement ropes. We will need to know the detailed sizes of the net or ropes you require and also the size of the timber it is being fixed to. Please use our contact form to request a quotation.

Can you source spare playground parts?

In many cases we can use our wide range of contacts to source parts for your playground, even when they are not shown on our website. It’s always worth the question, so email us at and we will do our best to find it and contact you with pricing and delivery details.

Do I need planning permission to build a garden climbing frame?

Generally no as they are not considered to be permanent structures and the pitched roof heights are below 4m. However, you may need to consult your local authority if: You live in a conservation area. The equipment will take over more than 50% of your garden. You wish to build in your front garden or a field which causes a change of use. It is obviously common sense also to consult with your neighbours also to avoid upsetting them.

Do I need safety surfacing?

Most fixed play equipment in public playgrounds with a fall height of above 600mm will require safety surfacing. For supervised and garden play it is advisable but not absolutely necessary. For further details on different products please consult our safety advice notes. Our flexible grass mats (RC70081) form ideal protection at home under swing seats and slide exits.

What is the best online playgrounds supply service?

Diyplay.co.uk stocks a large range of parts for both domestic and commercial playgrounds. Whilst there are a number of worldwide supplier issues currently, we always aim to stock everything that is shown on our website for quick delivery.

What is the difference between the swing corner – oblique (R6890) and the swing corner – right (R6878)?

Both will help create a sturdy robust swing frame. The oblique corners mean that the legs will also splay out to the left and right whereas the right corners mean that the legs will come down from the top beam at 90 degrees. If you are building a double swing frame only use the oblique corners, if you want to build a swing frame with a slide alongside use 3 x right corners.

Do I need commercial play grade timber for a garden play structure?

No — commercial play grade timber is designed for public playgrounds, not domestic gardens.
It’s specified for equipment that is used by large numbers of children every day and must meet strict commercial inspection and compliance requirements.
For home use, play equipment is:
1. Used by a single family
2. Subject to much lower wear and loading
3. Installed in a controlled, private environment
4. Checked and maintained by the homeowner
Because of this, commercial play grade timber usually adds unnecessary cost without providing meaningful extra benefit in a domestic setting.
Machined, pressure-treated timber is more than strong enough for normal garden use, offers excellent durability outdoors, and provides far better value for money for families.
Good design, correct installation, and occasional visual checks are far more important to safety at home than using timber specified for commercial playgrounds.
Disclaimer:
Domestic play equipment is intended for private residential use only. It should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, used as intended, and inspected regularly by a responsible adult. It is not designed for public, commercial, or unsupervised use

Are there design and safety standards for outdoor play equipment?

Yes, the British Standards Institution publish BS EN 1176 and BS EN 1177. Any reputable manufacturer will design their equipment in accordance with these recommendations, and likewise, a reputable installer will do the same. We only buy from manufacturers who comply with these recommendations. Click here to find out more.