As children grow or families upgrade to bigger and better playgrounds with shiny new commercial swing parts, many property managers are left wondering, “What should we do with the old swing set hardware?” Instead of sending those memories to the landfill, why not get creative?
With a little imagination, you can turn an old swing set into something functional, unique, and eco-friendly. Here’s how you can repurpose and upcycle old swing set hardware.
Upgrade to a Hangout Spot
When children outgrow a swing set, don’t dismantle it just yet. With small modifications, that old playground structure can transform into a cool outdoor hangout perfect for older kids.
Remove the swings and dangling hardware, and add sturdy wooden planks across the frame to create benches or seating. You can decorate the area with string lights, cushions, and outdoor rugs to make it cozy.
Want to go the extra mile? Install a weatherproof canopy or screens to provide shade on hot days and protection during drizzles. A dash of creativity can create an inviting outdoor corner where everyone can relax, chat, or read a favorite book.
Creative Gardening
Old swing sets can be the foundation for a variety of unique gardening projects. With a little imagination and effort, you can transform old playground areas into a charming trellis for climbing plants, a sturdy frame for hanging planters, or even the centerpiece of a lush, functional garden.
Build a Mini Greenhouse
For instance, transform an old swing set into a compact greenhouse by wrapping the main structure in greenhouse plastic or weather-resistant polycarbonate panels. These materials trap heat and create an ideal environment for plants to grow year-round, even in cooler weather. Add shelves or raised beds inside the frame to maximize growing space. This DIY greenhouse not only protects your plants from the elements but also reuses hardware that might otherwise end up discarded.
Turn It Into a Trellis for Climbing Plants
Swing frames are perfect for repurposing into trellises for climbing plants such as tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, or even flowering vines like clematises and morning glories. First, remove swings, chains, or loops from the structure. Then, attach durable wires, netting, or lattice across the frame to provide a surface for plants to climb. The vines will sprawl across the frame, creating a stunning green archway or lush wall of foliage.
Not only will installing a trellis add vertical interest to your garden, but it will also provide shade and privacy as the plants grow. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to bring beauty and functionality to an outdoor space.
Hang Potted Plants
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For an easier project, turn a swing set crossbar into a stylish display for hanging potted plants. Use S-hooks, chains, or carabiners to suspend an assortment of planters at varying heights. These planters can house vibrant flowers, aromatic herbs, or even small fruits like strawberries. By adjusting the height and arrangement, you can create a visually appealing vertical garden while maximizing your use of space.
The swing frame’s sturdy design can handle multiple pots, and the setup is easy to maintain. Whether aiming for a splash of color or a functional herb garden, this is a great way to upcycle your swing set and bring life to your space.
Allow the Animals To Enjoy
Your swing set gets a great second life when you share it with nearby animals. Here are some smart ideas to inspire you.
Create a Chicken Coop
If you’re interested in raising chickens, swing set hardware can be the perfect starting point for a functional chicken coop. Use the sturdy frame as the foundation, wrapping it in durable wire mesh to keep your chickens safe from predators. Add nesting boxes for egg-laying and a small ramp to give chickens easy access to their new home. You can even include a small, shaded area for them to roam comfortably.
Build a Doghouse
You can easily repurpose swing set materials into a cozy doghouse or shaded kennel. Use intact beams and planks to build strong walls and a sloped roof that’s weatherproof in all seasons. Make the doghouse spacious and comfortable. Consider optional yet functional touches like ventilation, raised floors, or a small porch.
Salvage It for Swinging
With a little effort, you can give an old swing set a second life for occasional use. Start by inspecting the frame; if it’s still stable and structurally sound, you’re off to a good start. Next, check the hardware, as worn chains, fasteners, and swing attachments are often the culprits behind unsafe setups. Replace these components with new commercial swing parts from us here at Discount Playground Supply. This way, the swing set can stay functional and safe for light use.
Just Pull the Materials
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Sometimes, an old swing set is too far gone to repurpose as a whole. However, you can still salvage materials from it for future DIY projects. By disassembling the structure and identifying reusable parts, you’ll save on costs and reduce waste while giving the materials a new purpose.
Repurpose Wooden Beams
Use wooden beams as edging for garden beds or pathways. Alternatively, the beams can be sanded down and turned into rustic outdoor furniture, such as benches or small tables. Their durability makes wooden beams perfect for outdoor use, and with a little creativity, you can transform them into functional, decorative pieces.
Reuse Metal Components
Poles can be cut down and repurposed as supports for trellises, fencing, or even a clothesline. Brackets and joints from the swing set can be reused in constructing pergolas, shelves, or other outdoor structures, saving money on new hardware. These sturdy materials are often built to last and can be a great resource for a project requiring durable metal components.
Reuse Bolts and Fasteners
Smaller swing set parts, such as bolts, fasteners, and screws, are valuable resources for future construction projects. They can be saved and used for assembling furniture, repairing outdoor equipment, or building small structures like a birdhouse or toolbox.
Stay Sustainable With These Swing Set Ideas
Upgrading a playground doesn’t have to contribute to environmental harm. Now that you know how to repurpose and upcycle old swing set hardware, you can create something fun, functional, and eco-friendly.
