Q.   How much do the playsets cost?

A.   Because each playset is designed specifically for your kids and your backyard there is no “price list”, per se.  However, the prices of  playsets have ranged from about $2,000 to $7, 500.  Generally, the more elements that are included in the playset, the higher the price.

Q.   What is included in the playset?

A.     We individually design each playset together with you and your children.  We have pictures of other playsets that we have done in the past to help you get some ideas as to what you might want to include in yours.  Mostly, we ask your kids what they would like to have in their playset.  This might include a “theme” you might want to have, such as a ship, or a truck or a castle, or a treehouse, etc., but would also include things like swings, a slide, steering wheel, benches, toybox/seat, etc.

Q.   How long does it take to build?

A.     Mostly it depends on the size and complexity of the playset, but it ranges from one week to three to four weeks.  Roc works pretty much by himself and he builds the entire playset in your backyard.

Q.   How big does the area have to be for the playset?

A.     This will largely depend on the playset design, and has ranged from an area as small as 8’ X 12’, to large areas upwards of 30’ X 45’.  If swings are to be included, you will need a minimum of 11’ to the front and back, for a total minimum of 22’. The area should be nearly level, though we can do some landscaping to accommodate most designs.   There is no height maximum; safety will dictate in each situation.  Treehouses require trees generally of 8”-10” diameter, but we have done some creative things with smaller trees by incorporating them in the treehouse but providing other means of support.

Q.     What are the playsets made from?

A.     The short answer is: anything you want.  Generally, however, we use pressure treated no. 2 southern pine for the structures (4”X4”uprights, 2”X4” and 2”X6” crossmembers, etc.), cedar for any eating surface (picnic tables, counters, etc.), cedar planking for roofing (or vinyl tarpaulin roofs).   We have made an entire playset out of just cedar (nice, but very expensive), and we have used other materials at the specific request of the client.  We only use bolts or screws; no nails (so they won’t pull out over time). All surfaces are sanded and rounded to reduce splinters. Safety is the top priority in both design and construction.

Q.     Is pressure treated wood safe for a child’s playset?

A.     Yes.  The pressure treated wood we use has been treated with “ACQ”, which is the new, “arsenic free” treatment to which most pressure treated wood manufacturers are now switching.  (Most studies, from the government to private testing laboratories, will tell you that the pressure treated wood that has been used for 50 years in houses, for decks, for town playgrounds, etc. is safe for all those uses.  It was treated with “CCA”, a chemical that includes arsenic.  While they say it is safe for most applications, they recommend against using it on food preparation surfaces and it should never be burned.)

Q.     What do I have to do to have someone design a playset for us?

A.      Just leave your phone number and Roc will call you to set up a convenient time to meet and go over your needs, show you pictures of other playsets, and see if there is something we can do for you.  You can also go to our website to see some pictures of other playsets…at www.rocnplaysets.com.

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