| We are pleased you are shopping and considering the purchase of PlayQuipment commercial playground equipment. To assist you in your purchase decision and the planning of your new playground, we offer the following considerations. |  |
Playground Site
When selecting your playground site, choose a level area that has a maximum slope of 2% and permits good drainage. The site should be clear and free of any obstructions. Allow adequate spacing for the equipment you prefer. Refer to the “Minimum Use Zone” dimensions given in the Home Depot PlayQuipment Catalog to determine the total space required for each play structure and swing. Independent equipment items should be placed to avoid conflicting traffic patterns and spaced at least 12 feet apart to allow for circulation.
Protective Surfacing
As part of your playground project, it is important to include protective surfacing. The surfaces under and around the play equipment should be soft enough to cushion falls. Plan to provide at least 6 inches of engineered wood fiber, sand or pea gravel. 6” high KidCurbs (#2420SP) are good containment boarders and may be ordered with your play equipment (see Catalog page 13). If including a swing structure in your play area, 9 inches of engineered wood fiber would be best. To purchase engineered wood fiber or inquire about available equipment installation services, contact your local PlayQuipment representative at 1-888-806-1901.
ADA Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires playgrounds to be accessible by individuals with disabilities. PlayQuipment play systems are designed to accommodate children with physical challenges by providing suitable accessibility. Certain structures, as noted in the Home Depot PlayQuipment Catalog, will require the addition of other ground level play events to comply with ADA Guidelines. Also, sand and pea gravel, when used as protective surfacing, are not accessible by wheelchair. Engineered wood fiber will accommodate wheelchairs.
Equipment Options
Each PlayQuipment play system is available in two or three color combinations - Primary, Natural or Contemporary. Use care in selecting the proper product part number that corresponds to your choice of colors. Early Childhood systems are designed for “On-Ground” mounting as depicted on Catalog page 9. Should you desire “Surface Mount” or “In- Ground” mounting, they may be purchased separately at an extra cost. Big Kid Tough and Value Sized Play Systems are designed for In-Ground mounting and the other options are not available. Roofs may be added to Early Childhood systems – see Catalog pages 10-11. You can expand your play area by selecting PlayQuipment accessories and freestanding activities, see pages 12-13.
Purchasing
Since PlayQuipment purchases are “special order” and products are made-to-order, you may not change, cancel, or have payments refunded once your order is placed. Please consider your choices carefully, confirming you have adequate space for the products selected and you have chosen the color combination desired and the product number matches that choice.
Shipment
Orders are delivered via common carrier within 45 days from date of purchase. The equipment will arrive unassembled and may be packaged in large, palletized cartons. Since the truck will not have a mechanical means to unload, you will need 2 - 4 people to assist when the truck arrives. It is helpful to have a dry and secure location to store the equipment prior to installation.
Installation
It will be necessary to prepare the playground site by leveling the area, removing surface growth, tree stumps, rocks or obstructions that could become tripping hazards, reduce the effectiveness of the safety surfacing or that will interfere with the installation process. Units and accessories with in-ground mounting will require that you dig holes for the supporting posts and the posts be encased in concrete. Typical tools needed include posthole diggers; wheelbarrows; shovels and rakes; ratchets, sockets and wrenches; tape measures and levels; step ladders; utility knives and rat tail and flat files.
Maintenance
Once the playground is completed, it is important to conduct regular inspections and routine maintenance to ensure the play environment remains safe and suitable for use. Enriching childhood through play can be a rewarding experience for both children and adults. Proper planning enhances the process. As you budget for your project, be sure to include for the cost of the playground equipment and desired options (your Home Depot price includes equipment delivery costs); protective safety surfacing; containment boarders for the surfacing; concrete; installation tools and/or tool rental; food and beverages for volunteers; or the cost of a PlayQuipment factory-certified installation crew to do the work for you. Have an enjoyable and successful playground project.