There it stands, taking-up valuable space in your backyard, that old playset. The perfect surprise gift from years ago is now something of an eyesore. The paint is faded, play fixtures are frozen in-place or broken, and it's rarely used any more. What took you three solid days of backbreaking work makes you nostalgic. If only you could do something with that old playset; well, there certain are options. Depending on the size and condition, you can do something with an old playset. You can refurbish it to get a few more years use, sell it to another family, donate it to a school or church, leave it behind if you're selling your home, or, repurpose it.
When to Junk an Old Playset
Before you start making plans for what you'll do with that old playset, give it a thorough examination. Walk around it and inspect every part to know if it's even feasible to do anything else but junk it. Remember, worn cosmetics don't mean it can't be salvaged. However, if it isn't sturdy, or, badly deteriorated, it's probably time to get rid of it. The question then becomes precisely how you'll junk a playset.
If you have fond memories of your children playing on a backyard playset, there's probably a deserted one taking up valuable real estate in your backyard. Because of their size and safety regulations, these structures are often difficult to donate. Which is why we were thrilled when reader Cindi Blair sent us photos of her playset-turned-storage shed DIY project. ‘The conversion was a gradual process that I completed all myself over time,’ she wrote. ‘All materials used were reclaimed, reused, or salvaged.’ --Good Housekeeping
Of course, it's not like you can just drag it to the curb for the local waste collection agency to pickup. It will have to be disassembled and the various parts will be junked or recycled, depending on the materials. Because this isn't a simple job, it's best to call a junk hauling and removal service. This will save you a lot of time, effort, and frustration when you need to junk a playset.
What can I do with an Old Playset?
If the playset has only cosmetic damage, even if it's missing play fixtures like a steering wheel or telescope, it's not beyond saving. You can always replace what's missing, if you're going to refurbish it. Here are some options for what to do with an old playset:
- Refurbish it. Peeling paint and a few warped wood planks aren't difficult to deal with. You can sand down the old finish and repaint it, then apply a sealant to protect it from the outside elements. If there are play parts missing, you'll be able to find replacements easily. You can even replace a cracked slide or worn swing seats. It won't be as simple as refacing kitchen cabinets, but it can be done.
- Sell it. Should it be in pretty good condition, you can opt to sell it. Take some photos and find the manufacturer's product description. Put an ad online and list it at a significantly reduced price. You know how expensive playsets are and other families will love to get it at a deep discount.
- Donate it. If it's in really good condition, you can contact local schools and churches. These organizations might be able to accept it as a donation, depending on its size and the safety regulations in your area.
- Leave it for the new owners. If you're selling your home to another family with children, throw it in with the purchase of the house. You won't have to deal with it and it will get good use.
- Repurpose it. As the nearby quote explains, you can repurpose an old playset. Use your imagination and transform it into something else that you need.
Of course, if it's not in very good condition, you can junk it. Just phone 800-433-1094 or visit AAA Rousse Services.