We are thinking about purchasing the Cambridge Wooden swing set that is sold at Sam's Club. You can view it at http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=358863 . I would like to hear from people who have purchased this or prior models from Sam's club. It sounds like each year the model may be a little different. I believe that the company that manufactures them has an exclusive with Sam's. The warranty is only 5 years. Thanks!

It would be funny for my kids

I have purchased the Cambridge 2007 Swing Set and am in the middle of building it. I thought I would reply anyway, in case you have not bought it yet. I'll post another reply on Monday after I have (hopefully) finished it.
Mixed reviews so far. The instructions are great - very thorough. My complaints so far - two pieces were missing from one of the boxes. One of them is a floor support, so I was about to get to a point where I couldn't proceed without it. I emailed the company and was very happy that they sent the two pieces overnight delivery for free. My second complaint is that many of the pre-drilled holes in the 4X4 posts were sloppy. Like they drilled halfway from one side, then halfway from the other without taking care to ensure the holes matched. Made it VERY difficult to fit the hex bolts into the nuts on the other side. We're talking 10-15 minutes per hex bolt to twist and tap and take a screw driver to chip away at wood. What should have taken 30 minutes took four hours. But so far it seems sturdy. If it's still sturdy when I finish it, I'll be pretty happy. I think it's a great price for a very cool looking playset, so if those few hours of extra work were the only drawback, I'll be satisfied.

Thanks for the reply! My husband and I look forward to hearing from you when you have it fully put together!

Please, please, please, for the sake of safety don't buy this kit.

I, in the past, have been an authorized assembler for Leisure Time Products, and due to this set have voluntarly stepped away from that.

1. That set is top-heavy.
2. The wood is shaved down
3. The wood is extremely light, they are no longer using Cedar for the support beams.
4. Too many conflicting playzones, and the swings/trapeze bar are set so close together that accidents will happen.


If you really want the enclosed playhouse, Lowes carries last years Sam's kit. It is called the Pathfinder and is a better set. Last year we put up approx 60 of these sets, my husband can do one in under seven hours by himself.

If you have any questions, please feel free to pm me.

Hello Mrs Trish -

This is very concerning....My wife and I were really excited to see this set in Sams Club..I never even though about it being 'top heavy'...would you say this is the case because of the 'wrap around deck'? Thanks





Please, please, please, for the sake of safety don't buy this kit.

I, in the past, have been an authorized assembler for Leisure Time Products, and due to this set have voluntarly stepped away from that.

1. That set is top-heavy.
2. The wood is shaved down
3. The wood is extremely light, they are no longer using Cedar for the support beams.
4. Too many conflicting playzones, and the swings/trapeze bar are set so close together that accidents will happen.


If you really want the enclosed playhouse, Lowes carries last years Sam's kit. It is called the Pathfinder and is a better set. Last year we put up approx 60 of these sets, my husband can do one in under seven hours by himself.

If you have any questions, please feel free to pm me.

Hello bama91...Did you ever complete the construction of this playset? And if so is it sturdy or does it seem to be 'top heavy' as Mrs Trish describes?

Thanks

Still in the middle of constructing it. (The weather has not cooperated).

I have discovered that - liked the licensed Leisure Time builder said - the vertical posts are not solid cedar, but pieced together - that's probably why they are wrapped in green plastic. It still seems a little shaky, but there are still several cross braces (e.g. the railings) that I hope will improve it. And there are anchors to secure it to the ground.

I have a friend who is a carpenter. Haven't called upon him yet because most of this is just tedious work. But once I am done and before I let my kids on it, I will consult with him on reinforcing/supporting/weighing down the playset. If we are not successful, I will disassemble the whole darn thing and return it to Sam's club. If that's the case, I hope they'll refund my money even though it is no longer new.

So, I am forging ahead. But, I wish I knew then what I know now. Friend, I recommend that you avoid this set. Just not worth the headache.

Mrs. Trish

Called leisure time and they said that pathfinder is no longer available because they had to change their machinery since last year. Rep said the one at sam's and lowes are made from same wood types and both are produced differently from last year's pathfinder.
When you say pathfinder is available at Lowes, did you mean in the past or recently?? Are the leisure time reps trustworthy or full of it?? Thank you so much for your time and info.

Mrs. Trish

Called leisure time and they said that pathfinder is no longer available because they had to change their machinery since last year. Rep said the one at sam's and lowes are made from same wood types and both are produced differently from last year's pathfinder.
When you say pathfinder is available at Lowes, did you mean in the past or recently?? Are the leisure time reps trustworthy or full of it?? Thank you so much for your time and info.

The same hardware is at Lowes. If it was me, I would by the "kit" at Lowes and go to Home Depot to buy the MCQ wood. Thats my personal OP but also remember I have been building swingsets for seven years (my husband actually, I just answer the phone lol).

Up until this year I have had a great relationship with Leisure Time, quick to send replacement parts, easy-going on the phone. This year not so much. Had to call repeatedly for replacements parts on a set we did last year, and it took a week to get part for the one Cambridge we set up this year.

Having the support beams enclosed in plastic is generally good. What has happened on this kit is they have not put one single beam in the plastic but five and that too me is just damn scary. I have had two calls today alone, with people needing this set installed and I just won't do it.

Bama, if you do decide to keep the set I would highly recommend making rebar anchors yourself instead of using the wood ones they provide. Please PM if you have any questions!

Hello MrsTrish,

We were also looking at this set at Sam's and now are considering going back to Menard's to check out their sets. Do you have any experience with theirs?

Thanks for the info regarding the Cambridge!!

We have decided to go with set available at Costco - http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11189673&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&s=1 . It is made by Rainbow which is supposed to be one of the best swingset producers and expensive. I spoke to the Rainbow guy today and asked him how much the equivelant swing set would be and he said it would be over 4000. He said the Rainbow has a lifetime warranty whereas this one has a 12 year. The Sunray at Costco is 1299.00 in store. Have you had any experience with this one Mrs. Trish?

Daddy, I do not have a Menards near me so I don't have an OP on that set.

The Costco set is fantastic. I am glad we don't have one near by because it would put me out of business. My kit that I sell that is similar to that kit is $2699.00 so that you can compare but again my kit is lifetime warrany but a 12 year warranty rocks (as long as it is not pro-rated). (No self-promotion here, as I could not sell to anyone out of my approved dealership area.)

Do any of you know anything about last years set from Sams Club? There is someone in my neighborhood selling it for 700. Is that decent? Any opinions on the set from last year? I dont know the name of it or anything...I just know it was purchased in April 2006.

Thanks.

Wow - If I understood Mrs. Trish correctly she said last year's model was really good. For $700, I think I would snatch it up!!!

Mrs. Trish, Thanks for the feedback! You have been an immense help! I lived in Springfield, Missouri and loved it so much! It has a special place in my heart. I went to Bible college there.

Mrs Trish, I just went and looked at the Leisure Time set at Lowes. I really like it, but I can't believe it has a 1 year warrenty!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What do you think is up with that? I have not gotten a great response from the Leisure Time phone line. They seem to indicate that the person who can answer why the warrenty is short is out sick!? Can you tell me what it means when wood is 'shaved' and how can I tell? What difference does it make to me? And does it make it less durable? Normally, would you have recommended these products? Thanks Lene

It has come to my attention that the Lowes set has the same manufactoring process as the Cambridge which means run away. We where actually in Lowes and saw one returned because the support beams had broken.

What I am mean by shaved down is they will say the wood is 2x4 but is not. The reason it has a one year warranty is because it is basically a disposable swing set. They don't want to stand by the product because they know they are selling sets that are made with China fir using support beams that are seperate pieces of wood stapled together, thus the units are not made for longetivity.

On the box kits I sell my support posts are 4x4, and my swing beam is 4x6, true to size. When a person walks up to my display model and trys to move it, it doesn't move. If you are shopping for a swingset and you don't have access to the set and cannot do the "shake" test walk away. Look at how far apart the swings/trapeze are from each other, they need to be spaced apart so that they don't risk injuries bumping each other. The rock wall on the Cambridge is just "OMG" the most dangerous thing I have ever seen on a swingset. Imagine a 2/3 yr old trying to climb that?

I was wondering if anyone has any experience with Adventure Swing sets, specifically the Grand Sierra. Primary sold at Toy r Us (maybe some at Walmart?). Poly coated support beams and it seems a mix of woods? Warranty is:
"the components of our set are free from defect in materials and will be warranted for one year from the date of purchase. In addition, all wooden components will be warranted against rot or insect damage for 12 Years to the original owner. All non-wood components will carry a one-year warranty only."
Any experience with this set would be appreciated.

I found this thread before I bought it after doing some online searching. A couple things about the Cambridge (specifically MY set that I am almost finished assembling)...the wood pieces in the kit are accurate to the size given in the manual and inventory sheets considering that 2x4's aren't really 2" x 4". The 4x4 swing crossbars are heavy and solid. The 4x4 uprights are ONE solid piece that are wrapped in heavy plastic, they are not smaller pieces stapled together. This set would be extremely tough to push over unanchored, and it comes with 6 metal anchors that get corkscrewed into the ground and fastened to the playset.

This kit is huge and very time consuming. The wood isn't cedar, but it comes with a slight finish. I waterproofed the entire thing BEFORE I started putting it together. I've had all of the pieces and no issues at all with holes not matching up.

One issue that's a major pain is that the factory puts these little stickers on the pieces for ID (M23, H8, etc.), but of the 400+ pieces in the kit, I've only had 3 that were still on the wood. The stickers falls off because of the coating on the wood. So, allow yourself a few hours for ID'ing the wood as well.

Overall, I'd say this is a fine set for $1100. It's extremely solid in my opinion. Now, it's possible that some of the older sets or even some of the current ones aren't of the same quality, but the one I specifically have is durable and solid.

This is a picture of a three year old Sams/Leisure Time set that we where hired to move from one home to another.
As you can see the swingbeam won't last a full year, and the ductiles are falling off.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/100_2828.jpg

We have it narrowed down to a few play sets and I was hoping to get some reviews/opinons on them ...

The Play-A-Round Trading Post made by Cedarworks and sold online at Sam's Club (http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=361802) ... The only bummer here is that online it says it takes 4 to 6 weeks to receive, so that would make it late June/early July before we would get it and summer would be well underway. If this is the most recommended and safest play set, then we are willing to wait, but would really love to be able to get it one sooner. We like this play set because it is splinter-free and maintenance-free and is different from a lot of the playsets out there.

The Sunray Premium Playgroup 2007 made by Rainbow and sold at Costco (http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11189673&topnav=&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&N=4000203&Sp=C&No=4&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=4062&Ns=P_Price%7C1%7C%7CP_SignDesc1&Mo=6&hierPath=111*4060*4062) ... The bummer with this one is that we don't have a Costco in Nebraska (yet ... the are just starting to break ground on building one), so we'd have to drive two hours to the closest Costco to pick up. Also, this looks to be a typical play set, so not very unique and different. But, if this is the one that is most highly recommended, then we are definitely willing to make the drive.

The Cambridge Wooden Swing Set made by Leisure Time and sold at Sam's Club (http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=353487) ... We are extremely concerned about the bad reviews. It looks so different and unique in the store that it is a very compelling buy. This is my husband's favorite.

Modular Play System made by Leisure Time and sold at Lowe's (http://www.leisuretimeproducts.com/swings.htm) ... We are concerned about the quality since it is from the same company as the Cambridge which received bad reviews.

Any recommendations/reviews/opinions you can give on the above would definitely help in our decision making process. We have three boys ... 4, 2 1/2 and 16-months ... and want something that they will LOVE that is also safe (without spending a fortune).

Thank you!!!

I would go with the one from Costco. We sold them on our lot last year, and we drove three hours to get them and it was so worth it. I would again this year, but we changed locations and our lot isn't as big, and we don't have room to put one up as a demo.

The one from Costco has a 12 year warranty, compared to the pro-rated warranties the Leisure Time Products have. Oh, ya and the sunray is made by a sub-set of Rainbow, so you have all those years of experience behind it...

Thank you Mrs. Trish!!! So, you would recommend the Costco Sunray over the Cedarworks Trading Post??? I've read a lot of posts that had great things to say about the Trading Post and am having a hard time deciding if I'm willing to wait for a maintenance-free, splinter-free play set versus getting the Sunray this weekend. Have you seen or had any experience with the Trading Post? If so, what are you thoughts of how it compares to the Sunray?

Thank you Mrs. Trish!!! So, you would recommend the Costco Sunray over the Cedarworks Trading Post??? I've read a lot of posts that had great things to say about the Trading Post and am having a hard time deciding if I'm willing to wait for a maintenance-free, splinter-free play set versus getting the Sunray this weekend. Have you seen or had any experience with the Trading Post? If so, what are you thoughts of how it compares to the Sunray?

I honestly don't have any experience with it, so I cannot give an OP on it. What do you mean by "maintence free"? If it is wood it will require some kind of stain/ water treatment through out the life of your set. As far as splinter-free ask if the set has been completely sanded on all four sides of the set, as most manufactors only due two sides. Usually when you step into the more expensive life-time warranty sets do you see all four sides being sanded. f

As far as having to wait for a set, one of the sets I sell are made-to-order, the reason being the longer the wood sits the more chance of warping. Sometimes "waiting" for a set means the best quality you can get.

Any info on the one from BJ's? I had gotten pretty excited about the one at lowes until reading the reviews. Also does anyone have any info on creative playthings. There is a sample set up at the southern states near my house. I have not called the rep. number yet but i did order a catalog from their website.

Thanks

Just bought the cambridge from Sams club. I haven't put it together, but i'm really dreading having to do so. Like the above post said... all those ID stickers were in the bottom of each box! Hundreds of them.... and not one on the respective piece of wood. There were also several broken pieces, and i was concerned about the support beams not being solid. What a huge pain. I'm seriously considering taking it back and getting the one from costco. (i just hope they'll take it back since i took all the pieces out of the boxes to make them easier to carry by myself...and the trash man already took the boxes......)
Anyone have experience with building the costco one?? I've never built one of these but i'm pretty handy. Wondering what kind of time line to expect.

Thanks...

We have recently purchased the Cambrige and LOVE it!! It is a little "top heavy" - meaning that the wrap-around deck on top does not have any extra floor supports. This was not too concerning, except we had to cement extra braces in the flooring to level it out because it was placed on a small slope. We don't have much completely level ground in our back yard. My husband built two extra braces, connected them to the deck, and cemented them into the ground. It is a wonderful swingset and we are very pleased.

After much consideration my husband and I purchased the Lowes playset made by Leisure Time Products. They also make the one at Sams. We purchased the central tower, slide, swing, picnic table, rock wall, tunnel, and plastic roof. My first recommendation would be to follow the instructions and pre-label everything. I understand that the Sams set comes this way. Too bad that the stickers don't stick :mad: This took me a couple of hours but was well worth the step. I think it was key in how fast we put it together and all our holes lined up! I also seperated all the fasteners into zip lock bags. Make sure to measure these carefully. At the very end I was suppose to use 2 - 3 1/4inch bolts. But all I had was 1 - 2 3/4, 1 - 3, and 1 - 3 1/4 :shake: So something went a little wrong somewhere along the way. We only found errors in the instruction for the tunnel. All other pieces went together as advertised. We think that the overall quality of the playset is pretty good. The main support structures seem very sturdy. The flooring pieces and the rock-wall boards feel a little thin. However, I'm in the playset on a regular basis and it feels fine. It took my husband and I 2 days (it was a long weekend) to put the set together and me another couple of hours to water-proof. I would definately have two power drills. One for making holes and one for fastening. That made things go much faster. All in all we are very pleased. Good luck to everyone!

We purchased the Cambridge set at Sams last weekend. I would say it took me at least 3-4 hours to separate all the lumber and another hour and a half to separate all the hardware and put into baggies. The lumber was so difficult to identify due to the hundreds of stickers that had falled off 95% off the lumber. I am pleased with how sturdy all the large beams are, but I agree that the floor boards feel a bit thin (but still hold my husband and I up at the same time and I would rather not reveal the total weight on that one, lol!). Then again, the set is not made for me, it is made for my children, and I do not see a bit of an issue with them climbing all over it. The set, overall, as we are 3/4 of the way completing it, is SO IMPRESSIVE! It is beautiful. I was concerned about the possibility of the set being top heavy UNTIL all the railings and roof went up. The set has been so much sturdier since then. Plus, we have the ground anchors in and can always cement them if necessary. I will post again when I have the rest of the set put together, and then again in a couple of weeks to see if there are any new developments. Definitely the most beautiful set for ANY amount of money, and so far, the best set value-wise in all of my research. SO FAR. Has it been a pain in the behind to put together? - YES! need 2 drills, as previous poster said, and some pre-drilled holes on posts did not line up quite right - but definitely worth it at this point.

Does anyone have any experience with the Timberbilt product sold at Home Depot and Lowes? We were looking at the Sam's Cambridge set, but are a little concerned after reading some of your posts. So, we have decided to look at other options and compare before making a purchase. We're also looking at the Costco set mentioned in a post here. We've also looked at the Rainbow dealer here. We want something our grandson will enjoy for many years and hopefully can find something safe and fun without spending a fortune for it. Any ideas or suggestions about these or other similar products would be greatly appreciated.

Just bought the cambridge from Sams club. I haven't put it together, but i'm really dreading having to do so. Like the above post said... all those ID stickers were in the bottom of each box! Hundreds of them.... and not one on the respective piece of wood. There were also several broken pieces, and i was concerned about the support beams not being solid. What a huge pain. I'm seriously considering taking it back and getting the one from costco. (i just hope they'll take it back since i took all the pieces out of the boxes to make them easier to carry by myself...and the trash man already took the boxes......)
Anyone have experience with building the costco one?? I've never built one of these but i'm pretty handy. Wondering what kind of time line to expect.

Thanks...

My husband put one up last week, and said while it went together a little funny to him (he has been putting swingsets up for seven years) it was a solid set. I will add pictures one I get to the store.

Hello,

I just put this swingset together a couple weeks ago and it is great. Like you I had the same problem with the stickers having all fallen off. Going through the inventory adds a few hours of work but it also makes it easier to sort and organize the pieces. I was definately unhappy about it.
That being said it is a great swingset once its put together. The tunnel has been a big hit for all the kids playing on ours. To sum it up its worth the effort and a very solid set once its done. Hope this helps.

Hello,

I just put this swingset together a couple weeks ago and it is great. Like you I had the same problem with the stickers having all fallen off. Going through the inventory adds a few hours of work but it also makes it easier to sort and organize the pieces. I was definately unhappy about it.
That being said it is a great swingset once its put together. The tunnel has been a big hit for all the kids playing on ours. To sum it up its worth the effort and a very solid set once its done. Hope this helps.

How long did it take to put up? Did you have to change anything? To fit my yard, I was told I could move the slide from the side to the front (next to the ladder). Supposedly that is even better for preventing any "tipping." I have not seen too many options here other than Rainbow, this model and Adventure sets. The Adventure sets seem to be less sturdy and less quality. Can anyone comment on that? The Cambridge seems to be a much better quality, particularly for the price ($1199 at Sam's).

How long did it take to put up? Did you have to change anything? To fit my yard, I was told I could move the slide from the side to the front (next to the ladder). Supposedly that is even better for preventing any "tipping." I have not seen too many options here other than Rainbow, this model and Adventure sets. The Adventure sets seem to be less sturdy and less quality. Can anyone comment on that? The Cambridge seems to be a much better quality, particularly for the price ($1199 at Sam's).

I put it together a few weeks ago, and all told it's probably a total of 30 man hours. I took me alone an additional 13 hours or so to stain/waterproof each piece before putting it together.

I was going to put the slide in the front by the ladder to save space, but the deck isn't as wide in the front, so it's a bit tougher for kids to use the slide.

Honestly, I don't get the tipping issue at all. The set is solid, well supported and comes with metal anchors. I weigh 205 lbs and I've been up on the deck with my neighbor who weighs around 190, and there's no danger of tipping. Given that so many people hate Sam's Club/Wal-mart, if one of these sets tipped over, there would be a national outcry screaming that "Sam's Club wants to kill kids."

I put it together a few weeks ago, and all told it's probably a total of 30 man hours. I took me alone an additional 13 hours or so to stain/waterproof each piece before putting it together.

I was going to put the slide in the front by the ladder to save space, but the deck isn't as wide in the front, so it's a bit tougher for kids to use the slide.

Honestly, I don't get the tipping issue at all. The set is solid, well supported and comes with metal anchors. I weigh 205 lbs and I've been up on the deck with my neighbor who weighs around 190, and there's no danger of tipping. Given that so many people hate Sam's Club/Wal-mart, if one of these sets tipped over, there would be a national outcry screaming that "Sam's Club wants to kill kids."

Ski- Regarding the slide in the front, are you saying it is too tight a spot for the kids to move around to get to the slide there? Please expand (before I get too deep into it).

THanks

Just to update our experience with the Cambridge...
We FINALLY finished putting together the set three days ago. It took 4 solid days of work, most of it done solely by my husband. I helped a lot in the end (put together the rafters and the rock wall, oh, and set up the swings and trapeze). We had to get a total of two hex bolts from Lowes to complete the set, as the company sent the last needed bolt via UPS Ground which took seven days too long to arrive.

The set is definitely extremely sturdy and not at all top heavy. My husband and I have been on together and the most we have issues with are a couple of floorboards that feel as though they have a little give under our combined weight. As I have said before, this is not made for us (but fun for us nonetheless).

The tunnel is a blast for all of our kids, as is the sandbox (kids are 6, 4 and 18 months). Of course the slide and swings are the basic staples of their play diet. The kids have had adventures galore in the three short days that this is complete, but I will update again if they seem to have a change of heart too soon.

All in all, aside from atrocious labeling of pieces and untimely shipping of two very inexpensive missing bolts, this is defintely the best purchase we have made for our kids in a LONG TIME!

Sorry, the 4 solid days are without breaks. He really worked shorter days and took several days in between as breaks. Three weeks taking our time with some good half days thrown in was about the gist of it.

Ski- Regarding the slide in the front, are you saying it is too tight a spot for the kids to move around to get to the slide there? Please expand (before I get too deep into it).

THanks

The distance from the railing where you'd move the slide to and the "house" is quite a bit less than the distance from where they suggest the slide goes and the "house".

You should be able to put the entire things together and decide where to put the slide after you are done. Just don't put all the vertical rails up on the deck railing.

The distance from the railing where you'd move the slide to and the "house" is quite a bit less than the distance from where they suggest the slide goes and the "house".

You should be able to put the entire things together and decide where to put the slide after you are done. Just don't put all the vertical rails up on the deck railing.
Thanks for the reply. I actually have to decide early based on the layout in my backyard. It looks to be about a foot less of clearance in the front than on the side.

Thanks for the reply. I actually have to decide early based on the layout in my backyard. It looks to be about a foot less of clearance in the front than on the side.

A foot sounds about right. It just seems to "flow" better for the kids having it off the side.

I just spent the day searching locally for a nice wooden playset for my 3 young children. The Cambridge @ Sam's is definitely the nicest playset for the price due to the enormous and well appointed clubhouse. You can't beat it's features and size for $1199. Prior to finding the Sam's offering I was going to build the one from Lowe's which is the same manufacturer but with a much more basic and smaller clubhouse and for nearly the same price once you add a tunnel, hard roof, etc. Unfortunately neither Lowe's nor Sam's has a set completed that you can physically try out. Lowe's has one setup but it's on top of 14' rack so there's no way to test it.

But the fact of the matter is the thing is so well appointed and so inexpensive I could build 3 of them for the price something comparable in features would cost from Creative Playthings or one of the other local playset places. The main benefit of those places is that they build it for you which is likely the reason the costs are 3x higher.

I just spent the day searching locally for a nice wooden playset for my 3 young children. The Cambridge @ Sam's is definitely the nicest playset for the price due to the enormous and well appointed clubhouse. You can't beat it's features and size for $1199. Prior to finding the Sam's offering I was going to build the one from Lowe's which is the same manufacturer but with a much more basic and smaller clubhouse and for nearly the same price once you add a tunnel, hard roof, etc. Unfortunately neither Lowe's nor Sam's has a set completed that you can physically try out. Lowe's has one setup but it's on top of 14' rack so there's no way to test it.

But the fact of the matter is the thing is so well appointed and so inexpensive I could build 3 of them for the price something comparable in features would cost from Creative Playthings or one of the other local playset places. The main benefit of those places is that they build it for you which is likely the reason the costs are 3x higher.


I am putting it together a little at a time (only have parts of weekends to work on it). I was disappointed at the lack of board tags (vast majority fell off into box) which added 3-4 hours. Some of the larger holes are not drilled well that they do not completely match up. However, thus far it seems like a quality set. I cannot wait to finish (nor can my son).

This site is wonderful!! :shake: I am trying to decide between the Sam's Cambridge or the Costco Sunray. Cambridge is 1199.00 and Costco is 1299.00. . .both are in-stock at our local stores. Main concern is quality and putting this massive thing together. My husband works a lot and we have twin daughters which require a lot of our time. My mother will be in town to watch the girls and we can "try" to put this thing together. . . .Yikes!!! :eek:

Please, I need opinions to which is a better buy. Our girls are almost 2 and will be having more children as well. We want something that we they can enjoy and will last for awhile.

Also, is there not anyone that we could pay to come and put this thing together for us??? Has anyone considered that??:confused:

Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!:)

This site is wonderful!! :shake: I am trying to decide between the Sam's Cambridge or the Costco Sunray. Cambridge is 1199.00 and Costco is 1299.00. . .both are in-stock at our local stores. Main concern is quality and putting this massive thing together. My husband works a lot and we have twin daughters which require a lot of our time. My mother will be in town to watch the girls and we can "try" to put this thing together. . . .Yikes!!! :eek:

Please, I need opinions to which is a better buy. Our girls are almost 2 and will be having more children as well. We want something that we they can enjoy and will last for awhile.

Also, is there not anyone that we could pay to come and put this thing together for us??? Has anyone considered that??:confused:

Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!:)

Spend the extra hundred dollars and get the set from Costco. Having owned a playground assembly company for the past seven years and locally installed almost 400 playsets, the Costco set is the best when compared between the two.

Thanks Mrs. Trish,
Do you mind me asking--why do you feel that the Costco is better?

Wow--I wish your husband lived near me so he could help with this thing--ha ha!! Do you know if there are people that do this sort of thing??? I am concerned about the amount of time that it is going to require--concerned that we don't have this time----:eek:

Thanks so much!!!!:)

I forgot to ask one more thing---for the price point of around 1500.00 what would you recommend for a good playset? It would be great to have the companies that come and install. . . .
Thanks so much!

This site is wonderful!! :shake: I am trying to decide between the Sam's Cambridge or the Costco Sunray. Cambridge is 1199.00 and Costco is 1299.00. . .both are in-stock at our local stores. Main concern is quality and putting this massive thing together. My husband works a lot and we have twin daughters which require a lot of our time. My mother will be in town to watch the girls and we can "try" to put this thing together. . . .Yikes!!! :eek:

Please, I need opinions to which is a better buy. Our girls are almost 2 and will be having more children as well. We want something that we they can enjoy and will last for awhile.

Also, is there not anyone that we could pay to come and put this thing together for us??? Has anyone considered that??:confused:

Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!:)
I do not have a Costco anywhere near me, so I did not have that decision (so the Cambridge was a clear choice). If you read the entire thread, you can see everyone's thoughts on the two playsets. Again, I cannot compare, but the "top heavy" concern of the Cambridge does not appear to really be an issue based on what I have heard, read and seen. Aesthetically, I would lean towards the Cambridge, but if I understand the Sunray properly, it is made by Rainbow which cannot be a bad thing.

I've been considering buying a playground kit or purchasing the wood & hardware to build one myself. While doing research, I stumbled across this forum.

Questions:
1) Will the boxes from the Sam's Club/Leisure Time Cambridge fit in the back of an SUV (with the back open & boxes tied down)?
2) Has anyone priced out 'borrowing' the Cambridge plans and purchasing your own wood & hardware? It will be a lot more work, but if the price is right, I'd consider it. I think it would be hard to beat the $1200 price on my own. I did price out a totally different plan in a book I have to be just under $1000 (plus tools & labor)... but at that point, I was comparing it to the $5000-$7000 models from the Amish groups.
3) Does anyone actually put down special ground cover (mulch, etc) per recommendations (depth & distance)? None of the residential playgrounds in my neighborhood have them. I'd consider using something with the Cambridge due to its height (especially around the climbing wall)... but 6' to the left & right of the slide is probably overkill.
4) Has anyone priced out rubber mulch vs wood chips or bark mulch over time to find the break-even point?

Thanks!

If you're concerned about the time and effort to build a HUGE playset like the Cambridge consider a smaller build-it-yourself kit. Two others I've identified are:

* The Lowe's offering, which incidentally is from the same company that makes the Cambridge. The Cambridge drew my attention however as it includes a way better play house, wood roof, tunnel, etc. The Lowe's set will be the same or more money once you add on a slide, tunnel, etc. and still won't have as nice of a play house. But you don't HAVE to make it huge if you just want a play house and swings and thus less time and effort to build.

* Home Depot's "brookview" offering which is the least expensive yet seemingly good quality set out there. Much smaller, but well reviewed. I noted some reviewers said to buy a 10-12' board for the swing arm instead of the recommended 8' to ensure the swings are far enough from the play house. Plus it gives you extra space to install a 4th swing if you desire. $599 + about $60 for wood. Great price! Seems about comparable to the Creative Playthings base set but at 1/2 the price.

My immediate neighbors have a Creative Playthings base set which they opted to add the wood roof and wood playset floor. I don't know what they paid but my guess is close to $1500 installed. I believe it's only 2-3 years old and looks BEAT. It's made with 2x4's instead of 4x4's, handles for the ladder are broken off, there's only 2 rocks left on the rock wall, it's seriously faded (though NC is sunny and as anything), but it's still solid and doesn't wobble even though it's built on a slope and not flat ground.

I've been considering buying a playground kit or purchasing the wood & hardware to build one myself. While doing research, I stumbled across this forum.

Questions:
1) Will the boxes from the Sam's Club/Leisure Time Cambridge fit in the back of an SUV (with the back open & boxes tied down)?


You can see the box dimensions here. http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?catg=535&item=358863&prDeTab=2#A I am going to rent a Home Depot truck for $19 (gives you 70 minutes) as the boxes are wayyyy to long to fit in my Honda Odyssey van which can easily fit a piece of dryway.

We have been around and around about what to buy. We went to the rainbow dealer near us last week and decided on their King Kong IV. Shipped and installed it was around $7400. I really liked the height and sturdiness. Since i was really nervous about th amount of money (we went much cheaper 2 years ago and now i don't even let our kids on it ... it was from Sears.
However when I got home and really read over the warranty it turned me away.. Here is the link
http://www.rainbowplay.com/WhyRainbow/CommittedtoQuality/Warranties/

the part that gets me is this part
"Components covered under this limited lifetime warranty will be replaced, free of charge and returned to the customer, freight collect. If you are working directly with your local showroom, all labor costs, travel expenses and any other charges involved in the installation or replacement of the parts will be your (the original purchaser’s) responsibility. "

I am sur3e by the time I pay to have something shipped to me and the labor and travel to have someone reinstall a part it could be really expensive. So no rainbow for us.
We decided to take it down several notches and go witht the one from Costco but I didn't realize if was from Rainbow as well. This bumms me out quite a bit. We did get a quote from Cedar Works a few weeks ago but shipping was OUCH! Like $800 (I don't remember the exact quote) I didn't know they have a set at Sams which we could always pick up... so this is a little better but I will need to read the warrenty part over thier catalog we got was not very specific if there were any charges. Still trying to figure out what to do.

Karen

SO, I am exhausted from all this research on the playsets. I have made a decision and feel very good about it. . . .
After much research and speaking to MANY people, we have decided to go with the Sunray from Costco. Yes, it is by Rainbow. It is 1299.00 if purchased in the store. I have heard too many negatives pertaining to the Cambridge WHEN compared to the Sunray. I also found a company that specializies in putting the playsets together. . .they charge 400.00 for the Sunray and 900.00 for the Cambridge. . . .that said even more, if they are experienced in these and they charge more than double. They said that the Cambridge has a lot of 1 ply and 2 ply and it is very tedious. Overall, everyone that I have spoken to is hands down for the Costco model. I'm glad that I did further research b/c I am purchasing the Cambridge originally. Costco is better made, cedar and redwood, the rock climbing wall is much easier for smaller children to handle, it has a nice picnic table, comes with a toddler swing, and carries the Rainbow name. I spoke to the Rainbow dealer and he couldn't even give me any negatives towards the Sunray.
I hope everyone is doing well and the play sets bring many wonderful years of happiness!!!!!:)

SO, I am exhausted from all this research on the playsets. I have made a decision and feel very good about it. . . .
After much research and speaking to MANY people, we have decided to go with the Sunray from Costco. Yes, it is by Rainbow. It is 1299.00 if purchased in the store. I have heard too many negatives pertaining to the Cambridge WHEN compared to the Sunray. I also found a company that specializies in putting the playsets together. . .they charge 400.00 for the Sunray and 900.00 for the Cambridge. . . .that said even more, if they are experienced in these and they charge more than double. They said that the Cambridge has a lot of 1 ply and 2 ply and it is very tedious. Overall, everyone that I have spoken to is hands down for the Costco model. I'm glad that I did further research b/c I am purchasing the Cambridge originally. Costco is better made, cedar and redwood, the rock climbing wall is much easier for smaller children to handle, it has a nice picnic table, comes with a toddler swing, and carries the Rainbow name. I spoke to the Rainbow dealer and he couldn't even give me any negatives towards the Sunray.
I hope everyone is doing well and the play sets bring many wonderful years of happiness!!!!!:)
Congratulations on your selection! I am sure you will enjoy. As I mentioned, I do not have a Costco near me so that was not even a choice for me. The additional cost to assemble the Cambridge is not unexpected if you look at the two sets side by side. There is much more to the Cambridge and it is very tedious. However, the only real negatives I have heard about the set itself (other than the length of time it takes to install) is from someone on this forum. Others I have spoken with (and some on this forum) are very complimentary of the set (one it is put together!). Good luck and enjoy!

SO, I am exhausted from all this research on the playsets. I have made a decision and feel very good about it. . . .
After much research and speaking to MANY people, we have decided to go with the Sunray from Costco. Yes, it is by Rainbow. It is 1299.00 if purchased in the store. I have heard too many negatives pertaining to the Cambridge WHEN compared to the Sunray. I also found a company that specializies in putting the playsets together. . .they charge 400.00 for the Sunray and 900.00 for the Cambridge. . . .that said even more, if they are experienced in these and they charge more than double. They said that the Cambridge has a lot of 1 ply and 2 ply and it is very tedious. Overall, everyone that I have spoken to is hands down for the Costco model. I'm glad that I did further research b/c I am purchasing the Cambridge originally. Costco is better made, cedar and redwood, the rock climbing wall is much easier for smaller children to handle, it has a nice picnic table, comes with a toddler swing, and carries the Rainbow name. I spoke to the Rainbow dealer and he couldn't even give me any negatives towards the Sunray.
I hope everyone is doing well and the play sets bring many wonderful years of happiness!!!!!:)


Good decision. We also do charge twice as much on the Cambridge compared to the SunRay and make the customer sign a liability waiver as well. Our install price on the SunRay is $400.00, the Cambride is $750.00. While the time it would take is about equal for both peices we simply don't want to deal with the Cambridge and have made it that expensive so we won't have too.

We have been around and around about what to buy. We went to the rainbow dealer near us last week and decided on their King Kong IV. Shipped and installed it was around $7400. I really liked the height and sturdiness. Since i was really nervous about th amount of money (we went much cheaper 2 years ago and now i don't even let our kids on it ... it was from Sears.
However when I got home and really read over the warranty it turned me away.. Here is the link
http://www.rainbowplay.com/WhyRainbow/CommittedtoQuality/Warranties/

the part that gets me is this part
"Components covered under this limited lifetime warranty will be replaced, free of charge and returned to the customer, freight collect. If you are working directly with your local showroom, all labor costs, travel expenses and any other charges involved in the installation or replacement of the parts will be your (the original purchaser’s) responsibility. "

I am sur3e by the time I pay to have something shipped to me and the labor and travel to have someone reinstall a part it could be really expensive. So no rainbow for us.
We decided to take it down several notches and go witht the one from Costco but I didn't realize if was from Rainbow as well. This bumms me out quite a bit. We did get a quote from Cedar Works a few weeks ago but shipping was OUCH! Like $800 (I don't remember the exact quote) I didn't know they have a set at Sams which we could always pick up... so this is a little better but I will need to read the warrenty part over thier catalog we got was not very specific if there were any charges. Still trying to figure out what to do.

Karen


That is pretty standard for any "lifetime" warranty, but that being said I know that my husband would not charge a customer to replace a part if someone bought one of our "lifetime" warranty kits. That being said that is a customer service that we provide and it might not hold true at all dealer-ships.


As far as the Sams kit, 5 year pro-rated warranty...

If you're concerned about the time and effort to build a HUGE playset like the Cambridge consider a smaller build-it-yourself kit. Two others I've identified are:

* The Lowe's offering, which incidentally is from the same company that makes the Cambridge. The Cambridge drew my attention however as it includes a way better play house, wood roof, tunnel, etc. The Lowe's set will be the same or more money once you add on a slide, tunnel, etc. and still won't have as nice of a play house. But you don't HAVE to make it huge if you just want a play house and swings and thus less time and effort to build.

* Home Depot's "brookview" offering which is the least expensive yet seemingly good quality set out there. Much smaller, but well reviewed. I noted some reviewers said to buy a 10-12' board for the swing arm instead of the recommended 8' to ensure the swings are far enough from the play house. Plus it gives you extra space to install a 4th swing if you desire. $599 + about $60 for wood. Great price! Seems about comparable to the Creative Playthings base set but at 1/2 the price.

My immediate neighbors have a Creative Playthings base set which they opted to add the wood roof and wood playset floor. I don't know what they paid but my guess is close to $1500 installed. I believe it's only 2-3 years old and looks BEAT. It's made with 2x4's instead of 4x4's, handles for the ladder are broken off, there's only 2 rocks left on the rock wall, it's seriously faded (though NC is sunny and as anything), but it's still solid and doesn't wobble even though it's built on a slope and not flat ground.

Might mention to your neighbors to power-wash and apply a new stain to the set. We offer that as a service to our customers.

I've been considering buying a playground kit or purchasing the wood & hardware to build one myself. While doing research, I stumbled across this forum.

Questions:
1) Will the boxes from the Sam's Club/Leisure Time Cambridge fit in the back of an SUV (with the back open & boxes tied down)?
2) Has anyone priced out 'borrowing' the Cambridge plans and purchasing your own wood & hardware? It will be a lot more work, but if the price is right, I'd consider it. I think it would be hard to beat the $1200 price on my own. I did price out a totally different plan in a book I have to be just under $1000 (plus tools & labor)... but at that point, I was comparing it to the $5000-$7000 models from the Amish groups.
3) Does anyone actually put down special ground cover (mulch, etc) per recommendations (depth & distance)? None of the residential playgrounds in my neighborhood have them. I'd consider using something with the Cambridge due to its height (especially around the climbing wall)... but 6' to the left & right of the slide is probably overkill.
4) Has anyone priced out rubber mulch vs wood chips or bark mulch over time to find the break-even point?

Thanks!

Rubber mulch --- Expensive
Wood chips--- Kids will get splinters in their feet
Pea-gravel --- Is what we use.

Double Shredded Bark Mulch
6" Depth for 6ft fall height
9" depth for 10ft fall Height
12" depth for 11ft fall height

Wood Chips
6" depth for 6ft fall height, 9" depth for 7ft fall height, and 12" for 12ft fall height

Fine sand (Warning* will become litter box)
6" depth for 5ft fall height, 12" depth for 7ft fall height

Fine Gravel
6" depth for 6ft fall height, 9" for 7ft foot fall height, and 12" for 10ft fall height.

Good decision. We also do charge twice as much on the Cambridge compared to the SunRay and make the customer sign a liability waiver as well. Our install price on the SunRay is $400.00, the Cambride is $750.00. While the time it would take is about equal for both peices we simply don't want to deal with the Cambridge and have made it that expensive so we won't have too.
I thought you did not install Cambridge because of safety concerns.

Rubber mulch --- Expensive
Wood chips--- Kids will get splinters in their feet
Pea-gravel --- Is what we use.

Double Shredded Bark Mulch
6" Depth for 6ft fall height
9" depth for 10ft fall Height
12" depth for 11ft fall height

Wood Chips
6" depth for 6ft fall height, 9" depth for 7ft fall height, and 12" for 12ft fall height

Fine sand (Warning* will become litter box)
6" depth for 5ft fall height, 12" depth for 7ft fall height

Fine Gravel
6" depth for 6ft fall height, 9" for 7ft foot fall height, and 12" for 10ft fall height.Do you typically see the entire ground surface covered to 6 feet around in all directions? That seems like a lot of coverage. Is the pea gravel safe for the kids? I was leaning towards the rubber mulch, but at 6 feet around in all directions, it will cost me at least double the cost of the play set just to cover the ground.

Do you typically see the entire ground surface covered to 6 feet around in all directions? That seems like a lot of coverage. Is the pea gravel safe for the kids? I was leaning towards the rubber mulch, but at 6 feet around in all directions, it will cost me at least double the cost of the play set just to cover the ground.

Out of the 400+ playsets we have put up only a handful have "walled" in the swingset and put down anything. Typically they use grass and put rubber mats we sell in store under the swings, and slides. Yes, the rubber mulch will typically cost the same amount as the swingset and honestly I don't see that going down because they only use tires that don't have cords.

The six feet around in all directions is a safety zone, you do not want to have conflicting playzones etc. That is basically up to the home-owner to decide what is best for their family. As far as pea-gravel it is very safe and affordable. The gravel acts as a cushion when they fall. We use it in the "sandbox" areas of the majority of our swingset installs because you need something there (weed-eater will ding the wood) and sand well, is sand.

I thought you did not install Cambridge because of safety concerns.

All of my signage says "We assemble it all" so we have put a price on it. At $750.00 and a liability waiver, we haven't had one customer take it up.

sorry to bump in here late...but.....

I helped a guy put one of the Sams cambridge ones together....what a waste of money, IMO.

The boards were super light weight and everytime I picked one up I felt like I was going to break it. not to mention that you cant really tighten down on the bolts without breaking the wood or causing other issues. The whole set in general never really felt strong, IMO. meaning it always felt kinda wobbly. at one point I was going to climb on it to put more boards on it and the guy was like "Dont jump on there!" I asked why and he said something about it was a weight limit of like 160lbs...not sure if thas true or not (maybe per person) but I wouldnt doubt it. then I was like, how are you supposed to get your kid down if they wont come....he just looked at me like...wha?

The set looks like it would be a lot of fun....but I wouldnt spend any money on it. .02:cool:

sorry to bump in here late...but.....

I helped a guy put one of the Sams cambridge ones together....what a waste of money, IMO.

The boards were super light weight and everytime I picked one up I felt like I was going to break it. not to mention that you cant really tighten down on the bolts without breaking the wood or causing other issues. The whole set in general never really felt strong, IMO. meaning it always felt kinda wobbly. at one point I was going to climb on it to put more boards on it and the guy was like "Dont jump on there!" I asked why and he said something about it was a weight limit of like 160lbs...not sure if thas true or not (maybe per person) but I wouldnt doubt it. then I was like, how are you supposed to get your kid down if they wont come....he just looked at me like...wha?

The set looks like it would be a lot of fun....but I wouldnt spend any money on it. .02:cool:Of all the ones I have seen (and I have not seen the Sunray assembled), it is by far the sturdiest. I have not seen anything about the wood that is super light weight. So, if you think it is not strong, it may be tough to find one that is. With any wooden product, you have to be careful not to overtighten. The weight limit is 150 per child and up to 9 children at a time on the set. I think that is more in case they congregate in one area so that over a thousand pounds in one area does not cause tipping. There are reports here of people well over 200 pounds standing on the set, so getting the child should not be an issue if that should occur (which is not likely to be commonplace). I am not far enought along to be jumping on it, but have not seen anything yet that would make me think the set was flimsy or unsturdy.

Is there a manufacturer website for the Lowe's and Cambridge sets somewhere? I've found some UK site that deals generically with playsets and outdoor furniture but it isn't clear they're one and the same.

Is there a manufacturer website for the Lowe's and Cambridge sets somewhere? I've found some UK site that deals generically with playsets and outdoor furniture but it isn't clear they're one and the same.

http://www.leisuretimeproducts.com/

sorry to bump in here late...but.....

I helped a guy put one of the Sams cambridge ones together....what a waste of money, IMO.

The boards were super light weight and everytime I picked one up I felt like I was going to break it. not to mention that you cant really tighten down on the bolts without breaking the wood or causing other issues. The whole set in general never really felt strong, IMO. meaning it always felt kinda wobbly. at one point I was going to climb on it to put more boards on it and the guy was like "Dont jump on there!" I asked why and he said something about it was a weight limit of like 160lbs...not sure if thas true or not (maybe per person) but I wouldnt doubt it. then I was like, how are you supposed to get your kid down if they wont come....he just looked at me like...wha?

The set looks like it would be a lot of fun....but I wouldnt spend any money on it. .02:cool:

The first thought I had when I saw the "tunnel" was a two year old getting scared in it, and the parents not being able to go and get them.

Of all the ones I have seen (and I have not seen the Sunray assembled), it is by far the sturdiest. I have not seen anything about the wood that is super light weight. So, if you think it is not strong, it may be tough to find one that is. With any wooden product, you have to be careful not to overtighten. The weight limit is 150 per child and up to 9 children at a time on the set. I think that is more in case they congregate in one area so that over a thousand pounds in one area does not cause tipping. There are reports here of people well over 200 pounds standing on the set, so getting the child should not be an issue if that should occur (which is not likely to be commonplace). I am not far enought along to be jumping on it, but have not seen anything yet that would make me think the set was flimsy or unsturdy.

I figured it would be sturdy enough for me to get on ( I only weigh 190) and put it together but the guy I was helping didnt want me to. If you can get a good deal on it, its not a bad playset, but If I were to get one, I would want something I could really tighten down. I would be afraid that in a short time it would become loose (not unsafe) but have to keep an eye on it and keep tightening things up. sorry if I sounded a bit harsh, I guess being a parent myself, it personally wouldnt meet my standards. Then again I am used to building things with Oak and 2x4's. The cedar just seemed a bit weak to me. I did put one fott on the main decking and you could very easily notice a bend/dip in the wood. I guess I am used to seeing ones built with heavier material, but those also cost 3x more, if your wathing your cost.

We called the people at cedarworks and they did say that they do not charge shipping but she could not find it in writing anywhere... They were supposed to fax it or call when she comes across something. That being said it does make me feel better even though it isn't a full lifetime warrenty.
However the weight limit on the swings from the swing set from Sams was only
160lbs (or was it 150) I want something that our whole Family can swing on. Argh!

This ofcourse brings me back to the expensive sets. Maybe the cedar works people will come through with something in writing for their bigger sets.

Mrs.Trish what is your opinion on Ropes vs. Chains (for swings ect.)?

We called the people at cedarworks and they did say that they do not charge shipping but she could not find it in writing anywhere... They were supposed to fax it or call when she comes across something. That being said it does make me feel better even though it isn't a full lifetime warrenty.
However the weight limit on the swings from the swing set from Sams was only
160lbs (or was it 150) I want something that our whole Family can swing on. Argh!

This ofcourse brings me back to the expensive sets. Maybe the cedar works people will come through with something in writing for their bigger sets.

Mrs.Trish what is your opinion on Ropes vs. Chains (for swings ect.)?

If you are refering to swings I prefer chains. You can always buy decent swings like these if your set doesn't come with ones you like. They are dipped, so there is no chance of catching fingers, hair.

http://www.gorillaplaysets.com/swing-set-accessories-swing-belt-plastisol.htm

Are there many sets out there that have weight limits that would allow a whole family to swing on? I would think that would be a pretty high weight limit. I think 150 is fine on a per child basis (it calls for up to 9 children). I would not expect a 250 pound man to swing on the set, but I can see young children, teenagers and a mother being fine on the set.

I would always take chain over rope for a swing.

Are there many sets out there that have weight limits that would allow a whole family to swing on? I would think that would be a pretty high weight limit. I think 150 is fine on a per child basis (it calls for up to 9 children). I would not expect a 250 pound man to swing on the set, but I can see young children, teenagers and a mother being fine on the set.

I would always take chain over rope for a swing.

My lifetime kits have a weight limit of 3000# on the fort, and 250# per swinging implement. My box kits are 650# for the fort and 175# per swinging implement.

Yeah the cedarworks and Rainbow BIG sets are weighted high like Mrs.Trish's too. And yes I would want my husband to be able to swing too. We are one of those families that does everything together.... including playing on the swing set. Its hard for us now (or atleast when we did use ours) when our kids would say "daddy will you swing with us" and us having to say no because were worried it might break. They get pretty tired of swinging with me.

Thanks for the opinions on the chains vs. ropes. I have wondered why something so expensive like cedar works does ropes. Their video looks nice with the ropes and everything but I guess thats why their warrenty isn't as long when it comes to the accessories.

I can't believe I am stressing over this so much.

Yeah the cedarworks and Rainbow BIG sets are weighted high like Mrs.Trish's too. And yes I would want my husband to be able to swing too. We are one of those families that does everything together.... including playing on the swing set. Its hard for us now (or atleast when we did use ours) when our kids would say "daddy will you swing with us" and us having to say no because were worried it might break. They get pretty tired of swinging with me.

Thanks for the opinions on the chains vs. ropes. I have wondered why something so expensive like cedar works does ropes. Their video looks nice with the ropes and everything but I guess thats why their warrenty isn't as long when it comes to the accessories.

I can't believe I am stressing over this so much.

Don't feel bad over "stressing" over this kind of decision. Its your childs safety that you have to consider.

It might be a bad sales pitch, but I always tell my customers to do their homework. Research the different options etc... and I can tell who does, and who doesn't.

Some additional information about the Cambridge set per an email from a company representative.

While it is possible to move the slide to the other positions, you must have the entry ladder in it's assigned location. The ladder is also being used as a brace for the cantilevered porch and must remain in this position. In order to attach the slide to one of the other positions, you will need to cut the lower wall rail and remove the wall slats from that opening. If you are careful, you could use these slats to cover the opening where the slide was supposed to go.

The spacing between the swing elements and between the swings and the tower is 11".

If you have any further questions please email me or call our office at 479-524-4138. Our office hours are 7 AM - 4 PM Central time zone, Monday - Friday.

My lifetime kits have a weight limit of 3000# on the fort, and 250# per swinging implement. My box kits are 650# for the fort and 175# per swinging implement.

Cambridge's limit is 150 per child and 1350 total (9 children). That is for a box kit. How much does a "lifetime kit" cost compared to your box kit?

Yeah the cedarworks and Rainbow BIG sets are weighted high like Mrs.Trish's too. And yes I would want my husband to be able to swing too. We are one of those families that does everything together.... including playing on the swing set. Its hard for us now (or atleast when we did use ours) when our kids would say "daddy will you swing with us" and us having to say no because were worried it might break. They get pretty tired of swinging with me.

Thanks for the opinions on the chains vs. ropes. I have wondered why something so expensive like cedar works does ropes. Their video looks nice with the ropes and everything but I guess thats why their warrenty isn't as long when it comes to the accessories.

I can't believe I am stressing over this so much.To get that sort of weight limit, I would imagine a $1,200 set is not what you are looking for. A Rainbow or Cedarworks is a completely different level of set than those at the $1,200 level from what I have seen. I would think the $1,200 type set is going to be more for just children.

Cambridge's limit is 150 per child and 1350 total (9 children). That is for a box kit. How much does a "lifetime kit" cost compared to your box kit?

My lifetime kits start at $1599.00.

My biggest seller is a box kit at 1399.00 that allows for the parents to play with their kids.

I have recently purchased and built a Cambridge set, from Sam's. Despite the lack of tags on the wooden pieces, I was able to put it together in 2 days (about 12 hrs.) I have read the postings on this site and would like to offer my opinion. I have 3 girls (Ages 4-1/2, 2-1/2, and 8 weeks), and they love the set! The slide is a big hit with them. It went together as well as a mass produced product could. There was some prep work to get it to fit, but all-in-all, I am pleased with the set, and more importantly, so are my girls.

I would recommend to anyone who is purchasing theis set, to do some up-front work before you begin putting the set together. I found that seperating the fasteners into large cups, and labeling them, help speed the assembly process. Also, using clamps to hold pieces together for assembly, was also a big help.

I am 240+ lbs, and spent some time up on the set while putting it together. I stood on the clubhouse floors, the tunnel platform (Before the tunnel was installed) and climbed the rock wall/ladder and I felt that it held my weight adequately. The set was anchored to the ground using the supplied metal anchors, but I placed the support posts on concrete pavers. (The pavers were installed using the same method as a retaining wall) I feel that this method provided a solid base for the set, which I felt when I was working. Providing a solid base is a good start to building anything.

My lifetime kits start at $1599.00.

My biggest seller is a box kit at 1399.00 that allows for the parents to play with their kids.
That includes all the wood, hardware and attachments? I would also assume it is high quality wood it holds such heavy weights (3000 pounds).

To me, for $1,299, the Cambridge is a good value. I think it would hold even more weight than listed (as demonstrated by the previous poster) and is aesthetically, probably the nicest on the market at that price.

I have recently purchased and built a Cambridge set, from Sam's. Despite the lack of tags on the wooden pieces, I was able to put it together in 2 days (about 12 hrs.) I have read the postings on this site and would like to offer my opinion. I have 3 girls (Ages 4-1/2, 2-1/2, and 8 weeks), and they love the set! The slide is a big hit with them. It went together as well as a mass produced product could. There was some prep work to get it to fit, but all-in-all, I am pleased with the set, and more importantly, so are my girls.

I would recommend to anyone who is purchasing theis set, to do some up-front work before you begin putting the set together. I found that seperating the fasteners into large cups, and labeling them, help speed the assembly process. Also, using clamps to hold pieces together for assembly, was also a big help.

I am 240+ lbs, and spent some time up on the set while putting it together. I stood on the clubhouse floors, the tunnel platform (Before the tunnel was installed) and climbed the rock wall/ladder and I felt that it held my weight adequately. The set was anchored to the ground using the supplied metal anchors, but I placed the support posts on concrete pavers. (The pavers were installed using the same method as a retaining wall) I feel that this method provided a solid base for the set, which I felt when I was working. Providing a solid base is a good start to building anything.

12 hours?! Wow! I have been working only weekends on it and am getting close, but would bet I have well over 20 hours into it (including the 4 it took to label everything in the beginning).

I have recently purchased and built a Cambridge set, from Sam's. Despite the lack of tags on the wooden pieces, I was able to put it together in 2 days (about 12 hrs.) I have read the postings on this site and would like to offer my opinion. I have 3 girls (Ages 4-1/2, 2-1/2, and 8 weeks), and they love the set! The slide is a big hit with them. It went together as well as a mass produced product could. There was some prep work to get it to fit, but all-in-all, I am pleased with the set, and more importantly, so are my girls.

I would recommend to anyone who is purchasing theis set, to do some up-front work before you begin putting the set together. I found that seperating the fasteners into large cups, and labeling them, help speed the assembly process. Also, using clamps to hold pieces together for assembly, was also a big help.

I am 240+ lbs, and spent some time up on the set while putting it together. I stood on the clubhouse floors, the tunnel platform (Before the tunnel was installed) and climbed the rock wall/ladder and I felt that it held my weight adequately. The set was anchored to the ground using the supplied metal anchors, but I placed the support posts on concrete pavers. (The pavers were installed using the same method as a retaining wall) I feel that this method provided a solid base for the set, which I felt when I was working. Providing a solid base is a good start to building anything.


Are those pavers in areas where you a child might fall? I'm just saying, most injuries from swing sets come from falls, and to put something like concrete underneath them scares me.

That includes all the wood, hardware and attachments? I would also assume it is high quality wood it holds such heavy weights (3000 pounds).

To me, for $1,299, the Cambridge is a good value. I think it would hold even more weight than listed (as demonstrated by the previous poster) and is aesthetically, probably the nicest on the market at that price.



12 hours?! Wow! I have been working only weekends on it and am getting close, but would bet I have well over 20 hours into it (including the 4 it took to label everything in the beginning).


Yes, that price includes all basic accessories, redwood with the lifetime warranty.

If I did'nt know what I know about swingsets I would be all over the Cambridge. Its cute with a decent price, but remember the cuter they are the cheaper they are made, and that goes for all sets.

I just purchased the Sams playset and am wondering if I should stain it before assembly. I really don't want to have to do it for a while so I thought I'd go to Home Depot or Lowes and get the solid deck stain and just lay all the boards out and coat them.
How long before you have to stain these things if you don't do it at assembly?

UPDATE: I haven't bought anything yet as I'm waiting for my HOA to approve my playset installation in general. ;)


Also, I made my first trip to Costco yesterday. Their $1299 Sunray playset looked a lot nicer and larger in person than in the photos. Specifically the playhouse was larger than I thought it would be. However, the swing area didn't seem to be any better laid out than any of the other sets I've seen. I couldn't measure but there didn't appear to be any more spacing between the individual swings than the Sam's Cambridge set. Additionally, they appeared to have installed the floor (rack) display incorrectly and placed the short 90 degree perpendicular swing beam right next to the other swings (as opposed to the opposite side of the playhouse) which would promote the swing path going right in front of the swing paths of the others. Crazy stuff as I actually thought that was how it was supposed to be.

I am handy building houses, sheds, major carpentry projects, etc... The Cambridge swing set is not worth the aggravation it put me through to assemble. I understand that some people have had success with little time for installing. I am certain that I would have eventually been successful. However, the level of effort is extremely high and does not offer a reasonable expectation of acceptable defects for a prefabricated kit.

In my case, the holes did not line up, the pre-drilled holes had to be cleaned or pieces of wood and/or plastic will prevent the bolts from screwing, and many of the wooden pieces were damaged and may be unsafe. Of course the part identification stickers are all on the bottom of the box (this is manageable with the instructions but will add hours to the install time). This review may sound trivial and I could have ordered or purchased new pieces of wood, but spending more than four hours to line and set three bolts with concern many of the dozens bolts to come may also be problematic. Of course, the majority of holes are lined and I could have drilled new holes for those that were not, but that may void the warranty and jeopardized the structural integrity.

While loading this swing into a truck I was warned by another shopper (a master carpenter who assembles swings) who told me that the above would occur. Unfortunately, I needed to discover that for myself. Now it is going back to Sams Club; and in my frustration, I am writing my first review ever to advice those considering this product.

I would note that the carpenter did say that once they are built the children really enjoy themselves.

I am handy building houses, sheds, major carpentry projects, etc... The Cambridge swing set is not worth the aggravation it put me through to assemble. I understand that some people have had success with little time for installing. I am certain that I would have eventually been successful. However, the level of effort is extremely high and does not offer a reasonable expectation of acceptable defects for a prefabricated kit.

In my case, the holes did not line up, the pre-drilled holes had to be cleaned or pieces of wood and/or plastic will prevent the bolts from screwing, and many of the wooden pieces were damaged and may be unsafe. Of course the part identification stickers are all on the bottom of the box (this is manageable with the instructions but will add hours to the install time). This review may sound trivial and I could have ordered or purchased new pieces of wood, but spending more than four hours to line and set three bolts with concern many of the dozens bolts to come may also be problematic. Of course, the majority of holes are lined and I could have drilled new holes for those that were not, but that may void the warranty and jeopardized the structural integrity.

While loading this swing into a truck I was warned by another shopper (a master carpenter who assembles swings) who told me that the above would occur. Unfortunately, I needed to discover that for myself. Now it is going back to Sams Club; and in my frustration, I am writing my first review ever to advice those considering this product.

I would note that the carpenter did say that once they are built the children really enjoy themselves.


I did have a couple of holes that could have been lined up better (seemed to have been drilled from both sides). Overall, there was not too much of this and we had no damaged wood. I was very impressed with the instructions as they are very well written and easy to understand. I went into it with the expectation that it would take a while to put together as I was told it was one of (if not THE) most time consuming sets on the market. Now that it is finished, it is beautiful and my children love it. It seems very stable. The spacing of the swings seems OK to me. The rock wall is a bit steep, but we added another rock wall where the slide would usually go (and moved the slide to the front to accomodate our yard). My only concern is how long the wood will last based on Ms. Trish's opinion. I would anticipate that the wood is not nearly as good as that used on the $5,000 - $8,000 Rainbow sets. However, I know I could not have afforded those sets to begin with. Time will tell how good the set is, but at this point, it seems fine. It is clearly much better than anything else I was able to find in our market. I just need to determine what to do with the "sandbox" area as I do not want to use sand there.

I did have a couple of holes that could have been lined up better (seemed to have been drilled from both sides). Overall, there was not too much of this and we had no damaged wood. I was very impressed with the instructions as they are very well written and easy to understand. I went into it with the expectation that it would take a while to put together as I was told it was one of (if not THE) most time consuming sets on the market. Now that it is finished, it is beautiful and my children love it. It seems very stable. The spacing of the swings seems OK to me. The rock wall is a bit steep, but we added another rock wall where the slide would usually go (and moved the slide to the front to accomodate our yard). My only concern is how long the wood will last based on Ms. Trish's opinion. I would anticipate that the wood is not nearly as good as that used on the $5,000 - $8,000 Rainbow sets. However, I know I could not have afforded those sets to begin with. Time will tell how good the set is, but at this point, it seems fine. It is clearly much better than anything else I was able to find in our market. I just need to determine what to do with the "sandbox" area as I do not want to use sand there.

Have you applied a stain? Pea gravel in the "sandbox" area. 3 out of 4 sets we do the customer puts the pea gravel in, and if you have boys they just love it because they can use Tonka trucks etc in that area.

At Sam's Club they sell a flooring set to cover the sandbox area for $103 if I recall. That's what my plan is if I opt to go with that set.

Have you applied a stain? Pea gravel in the "sandbox" area. 3 out of 4 sets we do the customer puts the pea gravel in, and if you have boys they just love it because they can use Tonka trucks etc in that area.
I thought of pea gravel, but a couple of concerns were that 1) the "pea gravel" from Lowe's seemed awfully large to be considered pea gravel and 2) some people have said that it ends up being thrown around and ends up in ears, etc. Is it comfortable for the kids to sit and play in? Where do you suggest getting good pea gravel?

We did not apply a stain, but did apply a water sealant.

I thought of pea gravel, but a couple of concerns were that 1) the "pea gravel" from Lowe's seemed awfully large to be considered pea gravel and 2) some people have said that it ends up being thrown around and ends up in ears, etc. Is it comfortable for the kids to sit and play in? Where do you suggest getting good pea gravel?

We did not apply a stain, but did apply a water sealant.

We get it from a local "lawn and garden store" that sells dirt, mulch, and stone. My daughter who is a tomboy loves it. She gets in with the tractorsand just has fun playing with it. I have never heard of it ending up in the ears, but it will end up in pockets etc..

Probably getting late in the season for people to still be making a choice here, but wanted to share my experience with the Cambridge set from Sam's.

My first choice would have been a Cedarworks set as they're relatively local to me in Maine. Their sets are rock-solid and beautiful and the company has been around a long time. However, my budget wouldn't allow that. They start at around $3K for a basic set.

So after much comparison and stressing, we went with the Cambridge set.

I fit the entire set into our Toyota minivan. The total weight of the set is just under the weight rating for the van. Had to remove the middle seats (the back seats fold into the floor) and fold the front passenger seat down to accomodate the slide. With mild persuasion, I was able to close the rear door. (Boy do I miss my truck)

I consider myself moderately handy and I put about 25 hours (Could use some tips from Bendoff50) into the playset from unpacking to completion. This was all solo work aside from the kids handing me the odd tool or bolt until they got bored. I'm guessing 5 hours of that was sorting/searching for correct pieces.

80% of the part labels fell off, but the directions clearly define each piece by size and number of holes. I also sorted all of the fasteners ahead of time. I had no issues with holes not lining up, however the plastic coating on the support posts sometimes did not line up with the holes in the wood (The holes in the wood were in the correct position). I had no other construction issues or damaged parts.

Sounds obvious, but having the ground very level helps immensely with the stability of the set. We paid someone to excavate an area to accommodate the playset. It was just over $300 for that service and 6 yards of playground chips. I started construction before the ground was leveled and had trouble keeping everything plumb (clamps helped). Once the ground was level, I had no further problems. Once the base structure was plumb, everything remained in plumb/level throughout the build.

I've been over every area of the set (I'm about 240 lbs) and felt secure, though there is certainly give when I put all of my weight on a single floor board. The included ground anchors work well as we have firm soil. I have no concerns with stability of the set for the kids.

As other posters mentioned, my one safety concern is the rock climbing wall up to the crows nest. I will definitely be using extra bark below that area. So far everything else looks good and the kids (5 and 7) enjoy it throughoughly. We don't let our 18 month old on the set yet (again, stating the obvious) but we did hook up a toddler swing for him in place of the included trapeze bar.

Overall, the set seems good for the money. I don't expect it to last 20 years, but I'm hoping for 5-7 years with good maintenance (waterseal, etc.).

Man, am I glad I found this forum. My husband and I saw the Cambridge tonight at Sam's and were very impressed. We are Costco members and used my mother to personally view Sam's playset model. Every family member that has kids has the Sunray model and we've heard nothing but good things about it. It's very impressive and I've never been leary about my 3 year old playing on it. We were all set to purchase the Sunray from Costco, but then we thought it was too ordinary and we wanted something different. Now, I'm a little apprehensive about the Cambridge model, since reading the opinions here. The steep rock wall to the tunnel worried me when viewing the model online, but when I saw it, I thought it might be doable. But with a 3 year old and 14 month old, may be a little tricky. Best to go with first impression.

My question is, does anyone have any experience with the Gorilla brand? Costco.com has a Highlander II model available which looks great. Three slides, including a circular one. A bit pricey $2,899 (includes shipping). And shipping is approx 4 weeks, but if the quality is good, we may consider. If not, like others, we will probably opt for being ordinary and purchase the Sunray. We've been searching for MONTHS and have considered waiting til next year, but our son has been involved in our search and is getting antsy. I'd also like to add, Vinyl Adventures out of CO has great looking sets. I've communicated by email with the owner and it seems like a great company (fairly new and they are in the process of expanding their market). Sets are VERY pricey, but they look VERY impressive. The have a pretty good sale in the Fall. (Spoke to them last Fall). Don't know if we want to wait and then not have anything til next year. Just FYI.

In the end I went with the $599 + $50 lumber Home Depot Swing-N-Slide Brookview set. The breaker on the Sam's set was the enormous size not fitting into my scalloped-and-retaining-wall area in my backyard even when moving the slide to the front. Not trying to derail the Sam's set as I think it's outstanding for the price but the Home Depot set took mere a here 8 hours to put together and is sturdy as anything with the 4x4 posts and beams. It's much more simplistic and isn't nearly as fancy but it was 1/2 the cost of the Sam's.

Man, am I glad I found this forum. My husband and I saw the Cambridge tonight at Sam's and were very impressed. We are Costco members and used my mother to personally view Sam's playset model. Every family member that has kids has the Sunray model and we've heard nothing but good things about it. It's very impressive and I've never been leary about my 3 year old playing on it. We were all set to purchase the Sunray from Costco, but then we thought it was too ordinary and we wanted something different. Now, I'm a little apprehensive about the Cambridge model, since reading the opinions here. The steep rock wall to the tunnel worried me when viewing the model online, but when I saw it, I thought it might be doable. But with a 3 year old and 14 month old, may be a little tricky. Best to go with first impression.

My question is, does anyone have any experience with the Gorilla brand? Costco.com has a Highlander II model available which looks great. Three slides, including a circular one. A bit pricey $2,899 (includes shipping). And shipping is approx 4 weeks, but if the quality is good, we may consider. If not, like others, we will probably opt for being ordinary and purchase the Sunray. We've been searching for MONTHS and have considered waiting til next year, but our son has been involved in our search and is getting antsy. I'd also like to add, Vinyl Adventures out of CO has great looking sets. I've communicated by email with the owner and it seems like a great company (fairly new and they are in the process of expanding their market). Sets are VERY pricey, but they look VERY impressive. The have a pretty good sale in the Fall. (Spoke to them last Fall). Don't know if we want to wait and then not have anything til next year. Just FYI.

Hands down, Gorilla is the best on the market, the highlander 2 is a pretty set that comes with everything you could ever need. The reason shipping takes four weeks because the set isn't made until you order it, which means it hasn't been sitting in a box for allowing for the wood to warp etc...

Gorilla is the easiest to set up also, all your hardware will come seperated into bags, easy to read instructions.

Hands down, Gorilla is the best on the market, the highlander 2 is a pretty set that comes with everything you could ever need. The reason shipping takes four weeks because the set isn't made until you order it, which means it hasn't been sitting in a box for allowing for the wood to warp etc...

Gorilla is the easiest to set up also, all your hardware will come seperated into bags, easy to read instructions.

Thank you so much for the reply! We've done so much searching and really didn't want to settle on convenience and price. Just wish Costco had Fall sales.....

Thanks again, Mrs. Trish. We really appreciate the feedback.

Mrs. Trish, what about the coated fir woden beams on the Gorilla sets. I have been kind of scared of them (worried about moisture getting inside) is it ok? We still haven decided but have been looking at the Colossal Kingdom from playnation.com. WHat do you think?

Mrs. Trish, what about the coated fir woden beams on the Gorilla sets. I have been kind of scared of them (worried about moisture getting inside) is it ok? We still haven decided but have been looking at the Colossal Kingdom from playnation.com. WHat do you think?

The coating on the wood allows for extra protection against moisture, its triple-dried before coating and completely sealed.

All I can say is that set is HUGE. The pictures in the catalog/website don't do it justice. Its a great set, and would last your family forever.

MrsTrish...what are all the good places to shop for a set? My wife and I want one for our yard, but ideally we'd only want it 15' wide and with the basic slide, rock wall, 2 swings, etc....all laid out in a straight line (no 90 degree designs). All we can find are either 16+ foot setups, or VERY expensive designs. :( Thanks.

I have come across the Ponderosa Swing Set brand new in box being sold by a private individual for 675.00. I just wanted to get some feed back on the price and if I should be concerned with wood warp? It appears to have been stored inside and I quickly looked at the wood and still has not discolored. Any thought? Should I go for it?

Thanks in advance

We bought the Cambridge set from Sams a couple of weeks ago, and finished it up this past Saturday. It did take me and my father in law about 20 hours to put it together. A few of those hours were spent labeling all the boards, because all of the stickers had fallen off. It is very important that you lay everything out in order (ie. f1, f2, f3, and then g1 and so on). This makes things much easier to find. I would also recommend going to the Sams website and printing off another set of directions. As far as assembly we read through every step before doing it, and everything was fine. There was one board that had the holes drilled 1/2 inch off, but that was an easy fix. We leveled our set with concrete top blocks, and because of our sandy soil I used concrete to hold the metal anchors in the ground. This makes for an extremly stable playset. I am 215lbs, and my father in law is almost 300. We both were on top of the set putting in screws with no problem. There were no warped boards, and if I had it to do over I would definatly get this set again. It is a great value for the money. I read reviews of this playset in other places, and people complained that it was not stable, or it was not a quality set. We shopped for 5 months looking at various sets, and you will not find a better value than this one. As far as stability. It is your job as a parent to make sure that this set is installed properly for you land. Noone can engineer a playset that will make up for someone elses stupidity. If you have uneven land, then level it. If you have sandy soil, then concrete it in the ground. I think some of those people got in over their head when they tried to put this together. Well, that's my 2 cents.

We bought the Cambridge set from Sams a couple of weeks ago, and finished it up this past Saturday. It did take me and my father in law about 20 hours to put it together. A few of those hours were spent labeling all the boards, because all of the stickers had fallen off. It is very important that you lay everything out in order (ie. f1, f2, f3, and then g1 and so on). This makes things much easier to find. I would also recommend going to the Sams website and printing off another set of directions. As far as assembly we read through every step before doing it, and everything was fine. There was one board that had the holes drilled 1/2 inch off, but that was an easy fix. We leveled our set with concrete top blocks, and because of our sandy soil I used concrete to hold the metal anchors in the ground. This makes for an extremly stable playset. I am 215lbs, and my father in law is almost 300. We both were on top of the set putting in screws with no problem. There were no warped boards, and if I had it to do over I would definatly get this set again. It is a great value for the money. I read reviews of this playset in other places, and people complained that it was not stable, or it was not a quality set. We shopped for 5 months looking at various sets, and you will not find a better value than this one. As far as stability. It is your job as a parent to make sure that this set is installed properly for you land. Noone can engineer a playset that will make up for someone elses stupidity. If you have uneven land, then level it. If you have sandy soil, then concrete it in the ground. I think some of those people got in over their head when they tried to put this together. Well, that's my 2 cents.

Aren't you worried about children falling on concrete?

OK so we finally decided to get the set from Costco. I had liked the colossal kingdom from playnation but then we got a flyer from Rainbow showing 30% off the one we had liked so we hoped playnation would have a sale too. So my husband called playnation to see if they had any sales but they said because we didn't have a authorized dealer place in VA we had to buy direct so there was no discount. SIGGGHHH!!! SO in the end we decided to put money to a nice Disney Vacation and get the set from Costco. Now we are just waiting for our friend with a truck to get back from vacation and hopefully they won't be sold out. I will post our building experience when we get it together.

OK so we finally decided to get the set from Costco. I had liked the colossal kingdom from playnation but then we got a flyer from Rainbow showing 30% off the one we had liked so we hoped playnation would have a sale too. So my husband called playnation to see if they had any sales but they said because we didn't have a authorized dealer place in VA we had to buy direct so there was no discount. SIGGGHHH!!! SO in the end we decided to put money to a nice Disney Vacation and get the set from Costco. Now we are just waiting for our friend with a truck to get back from vacation and hopefully they won't be sold out. I will post our building experience when we get it together.

Thats the thing about Playnation, they do not keep sets in "stock" like other manufactors, so they have no sets to discount at the end of season. Every set is made to order and should be set in the yard 7-10 days from being made, reason being the longer wood sits, the more chance of warping etc.

Aren't you worried about children falling on concrete?

He said he concreted the metal anchors. It is not like he put the entire set on concrete. I would think he would have to concrete the anchors in no matter what set he bought based on his soil. As someone who was simply looking for a set, as I read over all of the comments here, it appears to me that your issue has more to do with the maker of Cambridge over business issues rather than the set itself (which may cause you not to be totally unbiased in your assessment). In my opinion as a consumer, it is a great set for the money and I have seen no reason yet to be concerned about my children's safety on this set. Just my opinion.

He said he concreted the metal anchors. It is not like he put the entire set on concrete. I would think he would have to concrete the anchors in no matter what set he bought based on his soil. As someone who was simply looking for a set, as I read over all of the comments here, it appears to me that your issue has more to do with the maker of Cambridge over business issues rather than the set itself (which may cause you not to be totally unbiased in your assessment). In my opinion as a consumer, it is a great set for the money and I have seen no reason yet to be concerned about my children's safety on this set. Just my opinion.

I'm sorry, but you are wrong. I have sold Leisure Time products on my lot before, I still have a Pathfinder that was sold last year to a couple who are taking forever to level their spot. I still deal with the company on warranty issues etc. That being said, I live in an area known for rock, and having assembled almost 400 swingsets have never had to concrete anchors in. We use rebar anchors on all of our sets, including products made in the past by Leisure Time, because of our rocky soil. There are other options that putting concrete underneath any set.

My opinion after being in the swing set business for over seven years is very simply "I would not allow my children to play on that set." I have a Pathfinder that was sold last year, (same company) that I would allow my children to play on. We assembled over 60 Pathfinders last season, and would have loved, loved to continue those numbers on the Cambridge but my reputation is worth more than that.

I am just looking for direction in purchasing a quality but affordable wooden playset for my daughter. I cannot afford sets that cost $2,000.00 +, however, although I have been surfing the net for literally hours I notice there are so many different companies and types of playsets that I am lost in the search. Any direction would be helpful. Thank you!

BTW, we were looking at the Gorilla sets through Walmart but we're talking $400.00 + for shipping. Ouch! And you can't buy them from the stores in town. Now, this may be an expectation of most but the swing set itself is cutting into the budget. Therefore, I can see whay people often choose between Sams club and Costco, as you can pick them up yourself. Any and All ideas welcome! Thanks!

So ofcourse now that we have a friend with the truck and the time both of the costco's near us are sold out. As we speak my husband is ordering the Play-a-Round trading post from sams.com... Its made by cedarworks so here we go. 4-6 weeks for delivery but whatever we are getting one from a good company so hopefully we will be happy.

He said he concreted the metal anchors. It is not like he put the entire set on concrete. I would think he would have to concrete the anchors in no matter what set he bought based on his soil. As someone who was simply looking for a set, as I read over all of the comments here, it appears to me that your issue has more to do with the maker of Cambridge over business issues rather than the set itself (which may cause you not to be totally unbiased in your assessment). In my opinion as a consumer, it is a great set for the money and I have seen no reason yet to be concerned about my children's safety on this set. Just my opinion.

I feel the same way you do it seems to me it is a issue with the company. We put ours up over a month ago and my kids love it. The tunnel by the way is not that small both myself and my husband have been in it not to mention we both have been on the swings the same time and the slide.

FYI ... thought i'd chime in here, after reading SOME of the posts (7 pages was a lot to go through! ;->). but, we just put our Cambridge swingset together (same one that was originally posted). although it took about 18-20 hours with 5 of us (including two engineers, and a carpenter! ;->), we're VERY happy with it.

i understand some of the "stability" concerns, but about halfway through the build, i realized it was extremely sturdy ... that is, if it's built as instructed, with all the steaks installed. two of the builders (myself included) were over 300lbs, and were all over it the entire time. i don't think think a category 5 twister could tear down this swing set after all is said and done!!! ;->>

we did have to redrill some of the pilot holes ... and drill out new holes to match up correctly, but overall was quite impressed with the prep-work done, and the instructions given (although some of the diagrams can be a little confusing, not showing things EXACLY as they really were).

thanx for the input MrsTrish (and all the rest) ... good info! but, overall, i couldn't be any more impressed than with this Cambridge product!

Just wanted to chime back in on the Cedar Works Trading Post from Sams we got. I worked by myself for a bit but did get to a part where I needed a hand in putting the massive beams together. This does require 2 people and a TALL ladder (when doing the roofing). It was pretty much easy to put together. Only a few problems getting some beams together since the measurements are so precise. One beam fits into another which then fits to another and everything needs to be pretty exact. With out a doubt we would do it again.

Unfortunately, I didn't find this thread until after I purchased the Leisure Time Products "Next Generation" set from Lowes. Here are my comments:

Pros:
- Instructions were easy to follow, and I felt that their assembly time estimate (16hrs) was reasonable. In my case, the pre-drilled holes lined up enough so that I didn't have to redrill anything. I did have to clean out some of the pre-drilled holes in the vertical support beams.
- relatively inexpensive
- They were able to ship me the missing parts in a reasonable amount of time (before the following weekend). They even replaced a couple of the boards that were damaged in the box.
- Looks nice
- My 4-yr old and her friends love it. My 1 yr old loves the Gorilla full bucket swing that I got for it, and he likes to try to climb upt the ladder and slide.
- When assembled on level ground, this set feels solid. I've been on the swing, monkey bars and up in the play house, and there isn't much give. Getting the ground level wasn't that difficult - I just dug out the high spots while setting it up.

Cons:
- Soft wood. This really became a problem when fastening the deck boards and side boards because the deck screws would often strip the wood completely or the screw head would penetrate halfway through the top board. But it was inconsistent - I had to keep adjusting the torque on my drill to get it right. One of those drywall screw setters ($5-$15)might have helped. The hex bolts and lag screws were solid.
- The swing beam is a "laminate" rather than a solid piece. I have some concerns about this holding up to the weather.
- Swings are too close together and too close to the frame. They probably meet the minimum CPSC requirements (8in between swings and 12in between swing and support poles), but I would be more comfortable with a larger gap. At some point I may replace the beam with a longer one.
- I feel that the base of the monkey bars is too close to the bottom of the small slide. Also, I didn't get the large slide or the tunnel with climbing wall, but from the pictures and diagrams it looks like these are too close together also. If the child stuck his arm out, he could easily hit the climbing wall while going down the slide.
- no sleeves around swing chains
- Slide is flimsy
- Missing hardware. I could have finished this in one weekend but the swing attachment was missing some brackets. I was also short a few bolts.

Recommendations:
Knowing what I know now, I probably wouldn't buy this again because there were other play sets at Home Depot (Timberbilt) and Menards (Playstar) that I was considering. However, now that I have it, I'll just be more diligent about checking for loose boards and replacing them when necessary.

As a highly experienced playground installer, I thought I would offer some insight into this thread. Much of the discussion has centered on 1 swingset vs. another vs. another, with pretty much no mention of the hardware used on the sets (or very little mention).
The playgrounds/swingsets in the price range that the Cambridge and the Sunray Premium fall into will be between $1299. and $1800. if purchased at the store (and this generally will NOT include the installation. Having installed over 200 Sunray Premium Playgrounds, and having also installed the Cambridge, Creative Playthings, and others- I can objectively state that the Sunray is the best value for the money, period- and here are a few reasons why (before I state these reasons, please keep in mind I am an independent installer, and DO NOT work for Sunray or Costco):

1. The hardware, as mentioned above, on the Sunray is far superior than anything on any swingset in it's price range. Most of the hardware on the weight supporting parts on the Sunray is 1/2". not 3/8" or even 1/4" on some other sets- and if you think this doesn't make a difference, google "Backyard Adventures CPSC playground recalls"- basically the CPSC had recalled many sets from this company, due to structural failures- which was due to faulty ) translated "undersized and cheap" hardware.
2. The wood. Simply stated, the wood on the Sunray Premium Playground is strong- which is why when I am installing the Sunray, I do NOT ever worry about whether or not I can stand on a certain piece, or keep my weight off a certain area; I would not in a million years (contrary to what another post stated) EVER stand up on the monkey bar section of the Cambridge- or other sets for that matter- and I would not hesitate to stand up on the top of the Sunray's monkey/swing combination. In a quality swingset, the wood will be redwood/red cedar- which is what the Sunray is- not coated PVC wood, or painted southern yellow pine; try getting southern yellow pine to not splinter after 1 season!
3. The company- Rainbow is the company that owns Sunray, and you get the backing of the leading residential swingset manufacturer in the country; in the 4 1/2 years I have been installing Sunrays, I have never once had a problem contacting customer service or getting prompt assistance for the homeowner if needed.

As a highly experienced playground installer, I thought I would offer some insight into this thread. Much of the discussion has centered on 1 swingset vs. another vs. another, with pretty much no mention of the hardware used on the sets (or very little mention).
The playgrounds/swingsets in the price range that the Cambridge and the Sunray Premium fall into will be between $1299. and $1800. if purchased at the store (and this generally will NOT include the installation. Having installed over 200 Sunray Premium Playgrounds, and having also installed the Cambridge, Creative Playthings, and others- I can objectively state that the Sunray is the best value for the money, period- and here are a few reasons why (before I state these reasons, please keep in mind I am an independent installer, and DO NOT work for Sunray or Costco):

1. The hardware, as mentioned above, on the Sunray is far superior than anything on any swingset in it's price range. Most of the hardware on the weight supporting parts on the Sunray is 1/2". not 3/8" or even 1/4" on some other sets- and if you think this doesn't make a difference, google "Backyard Adventures CPSC playground recalls"- basically the CPSC had recalled many sets from this company, due to structural failures- which was due to faulty ) translated "undersized and cheap" hardware.
2. The wood. Simply stated, the wood on the Sunray Premium Playground is strong- which is why when I am installing the Sunray, I do NOT ever worry about whether or not I can stand on a certain piece, or keep my weight off a certain area; I would not in a million years (contrary to what another post stated) EVER stand up on the monkey bar section of the Cambridge- or other sets for that matter- and I would not hesitate to stand up on the top of the Sunray's monkey/swing combination. In a quality swingset, the wood will be redwood/red cedar- which is what the Sunray is- not coated PVC wood, or painted southern yellow pine; try getting southern yellow pine to not splinter after 1 season!
3. The company- Rainbow is the company that owns Sunray, and you get the backing of the leading residential swingset manufacturer in the country; in the 4 1/2 years I have been installing Sunrays, I have never once had a problem contacting customer service or getting prompt assistance for the homeowner if needed.

You have been repped!

I emailed Leisure Time Products (the manufacture of Cambridge 6007) and here is the response I received:

Dear Mr. xxx

Thank you for your interest in our product. As you have found Sam's Club only carries our product as seasonal merchandise. I have checked and all of the Sam's Clubs in South Carolina show to be out of stock.

We will be supplying Sam's Club with a new and improved version of this model next season. The basic design is the same, but we have made many improvements that will help greatly in the building process. We will be ink stamping the part numbers on the parts and have completely changed the packaging to help with organizing and assembling the set. We have also added a small bench to the lower play area for the children to sit on.

Several customers have made us aware of the web site you have listed. Unfortunately, when it comes to the internet, people are free to publish many things without proof or facts. Most of the statements made are false in many aspects. As I stated, we have addressed the legitimate concerns in packaging and labeling.

Normally, the southern states will be in stock with the new model but mid December. If your club is not in stock at that time, please let me know and I will see if I can help located you a unit nearby.

Thank you,

Scott Winzer
Leisure Time Products, INC
800-765-4138 Ext. 274
leisuret@cox-internet.com

Well..Be ready for an extreme job and have plenty of time on your hands (along with about 4 others). While I did read this thread after we had already purchased and was somewhat apprehensive, a lot of what was highlighted we experienced as well. The stickers that marked the boards had all fallen off about 95% of the boards so after laying these out and measuring and organizing, it added about 3-4 hours. I'm envious of the people that laid this out in 20 hours or less as our man hours was at least triple that.

I feel that as long as this is on solid, level ground the support of this set is very sturdy. All in all, I'm glad we did it as it is a beautiful play set but be ready to commit a lot of time to the project even if you know what you are doing there is over 30 lbs just in screws and bolts so I imagine that is a couple thousand that have to be put in .:eek:

Hello, This forum is so informative, thank you so much! I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for what to use (that isnt expensive) around the pea gravel to hold it in- I guess some type of wall. Thank you!


Rubber mulch --- Expensive
Wood chips--- Kids will get splinters in their feet
Pea-gravel --- Is what we use.

Double Shredded Bark Mulch
6" Depth for 6ft fall height
9" depth for 10ft fall Height
12" depth for 11ft fall height

Wood Chips
6" depth for 6ft fall height, 9" depth for 7ft fall height, and 12" for 12ft fall height

Fine sand (Warning* will become litter box)
6" depth for 5ft fall height, 12" depth for 7ft fall height

Fine Gravel
6" depth for 6ft fall height, 9" for 7ft foot fall height, and 12" for 10ft fall height.

Tracy-
You can use standard 4x4 railroad ties to hold in pea gravel; sold at all home improvement stores. Some also sell specialty railroad ties, that have rounded edges- so the kids don't get hurt on the corners/edges.
In the swingsets/playgrounds I have installed, I would say railroad ties are used for borders more frequently than other materials.
http://www.scottsswingset.com

My wife and I want to purchase our children a playground/playset for xmas this year. We were looking at the Rainbow Systems Rainbow Castle and Playnation Tahoe set and then came across this forum/post. Our children are 1 and 3 and we wanted to buy something that would last a long time, provide a lot of activities, and would be something that they would/could grow into. We don't mind paying the money (est $3.5K) for a premium system but if there are other make/models available that provide the same activities and quality for a fraction of the price then I guess we would be foolish not to take a look. Any information on Rainbow and Playnation as well as recommendations on "other" units would be greatly appreciated.

Also.. Just out of curiousity. Would weather treated southern pine or redwood be the preferred wood for a FL climate.

Thanks in advance !

My wife and I want to purchase our children a playground/playset for xmas this year. We were looking at the Rainbow Systems Rainbow Castle and Playnation Tahoe set and then came across this forum/post. Our children are 1 and 3 and we wanted to buy something that would last a long time, provide a lot of activities, and would be something that they would/could grow into. We don't mind paying the money (est $3.5K) for a premium system but if there are other make/models available that provide the same activities and quality for a fraction of the price then I guess we would be foolish not to take a look. Any information on Rainbow and Playnation as well as recommendations on "other" units would be greatly appreciated.

Also.. Just out of curiousity. Would weather treated southern pine or redwood be the preferred wood for a FL climate.

Thanks in advance !

Acck, I know that Rainbow has cheaper pricing in Florida due to the competiton from Playnation but in my area, Playnation runs roughly 1.5k cheaper when comparing the two sets. The Tahoe is a great set. Lifetime warranty, easy for the kids to use now, and big enough that when they are older they will still enjoy it. Both the Pine and the Redwood carry the lifetime warrany, so really there should not be a worry there. Rainbow and Playnation are both great kits.

*Honesty matters* I have a Playnation dealership in the Mid-West.

Acck, I know that Rainbow has cheaper pricing in Florida due to the competiton from Playnation but in my area, Playnation runs roughly 1.5k cheaper when comparing the two sets. The Tahoe is a great set. Lifetime warranty, easy for the kids to use now, and big enough that when they are older they will still enjoy it. Both the Pine and the Redwood carry the lifetime warrany, so really there should not be a worry there. Rainbow and Playnation are both great kits.

*Honesty matters* I have a Playnation dealership in the Mid-West.

ThanksMrsTrish...In your opinion are the sets sold at Costco, etc comparable to that of Rainbow or Playnation? I know it is all about money, but in your experience which is the best bang for your buck out there (taking into consideration custom or box set)?

Thanks

ThanksMrsTrish...In your opinion are the sets sold at Costco, etc comparable to that of Rainbow or Playnation? I know it is all about money, but in your experience which is the best bang for your buck out there (taking into consideration custom or box set)?

Thanks

The sets sold at Costco are great sets, but it does not compare to the lifetime warranty sets of Playnation or Rainbow. That being said, I would not hesitate to put the Costco set in my yard, and expect it to last for years.

We have been looking at the Ranger from Playnation. They currently are running a special on this set.
Any thoughts on this set? It's one of their boxed- ready to assemble versions and I was wondering how it compared to their "regular" line.
It's the perfect configuration for the space we are considering, which is why it has caught our eye. Any feedback on this one would be greatly appreciated.

We have been looking at the Ranger from Playnation. They currently are running a special on this set.
Any thoughts on this set? It's one of their boxed- ready to assemble versions and I was wondering how it compared to their "regular" line.
It's the perfect configuration for the space we are considering, which is why it has caught our eye. Any feedback on this one would be greatly appreciated.

Rangers are great sets. You cannot get a better set for the price. I spent a good year researching all the playground manufactors, looking for quality sets and great prices. If you have any questions about the set, please PM.

Rangers are great sets. You cannot get a better set for the price. I spent a good year researching all the playground manufactors, looking for quality sets and great prices. If you have any questions about the set, please PM.

Mrs. Trish-
No disrespect meant- just want to point out some facts. The Ranger and the 2006 Sunray Premium Playground are very similar swingsets; both are Castles, and essentially have many of the same features, at very similar prices. That being said- the "timber shield" poly coating on the Ranger, and many of the other Playnation swingsets, is something that Rainbow has done extensive studies on- I am sure you are familiar with Rainbow, which is considered the industry leader in residential swingsets, and has been for years. Their studies have confirmed that wood (regardless of what type) that is covered with any type of PVC or plastic coating is more prone to premature aging, as the wood cannot breathe; this eventually leads to rot. If you think about it, in nature- redwood trees are some of the oldest living things on the planet- and if you take redwood and encase it in PVC, it rots.
I am in no way saying the Playnation swingsets are not manufactured well- just pointing out that if the PVC method of encasing wood was effective, Rainbow would most definitely be using it on their swingsets- and they don't.

Thank you everyone. I just began looking for a play set for my kids for Christmas. You all made is very easy for me to make a selection. I am a new SD member..........without this site and your feedback, I probably would be confused and unable to make a decision. Today I have made my decision in 30 minutes. Being a Costco loyal......I will purchase their play set.

Thanks Again!!!!!!!!!

Mrs. Trish-
No disrespect meant- just want to point out some facts. The Ranger and the 2006 Sunray Premium Playground are very similar swingsets; both are Castles, and essentially have many of the same features, at very similar prices. That being said- the "timber shield" poly coating on the Ranger, and many of the other Playnation swingsets, is something that Rainbow has done extensive studies on- I am sure you are familiar with Rainbow, which is considered the industry leader in residential swingsets, and has been for years. Their studies have confirmed that wood (regardless of what type) that is covered with any type of PVC or plastic coating is more prone to premature aging, as the wood cannot breathe; this eventually leads to rot. If you think about it, in nature- redwood trees are some of the oldest living things on the planet- and if you take redwood and encase it in PVC, it rots.
I am in no way saying the Playnation swingsets are not manufactured well- just pointing out that if the PVC method of encasing wood was effective, Rainbow would most definitely be using it on their swingsets- and they don't.

"Castle" is a name for Rainbow playsets. Its has nothing to do with the Ranger. 2. In my area Costcos only care swingsets during the spring/summer months, therefore I am not sure anyone can purchase the Sunray. The outside beams of the Ranger are redwood, its is a strong southern pine that is the encased beams. In my research I did not find any testing that "matched" the results of Rainbows, therefore I took it with a grain of salt. I personally feel that the pvc-coated beams are added protection against weather/wood rot damage.

That being said, the majority of Playnation sets do not have the poly-coated beams. The Ranger and Shenondoah are the two ten year warranty kits, and they do have them. The Green Mountain line in the lifetime warranty kits also have them. That would account for less that 25% of the entire Playnation line. Also Playnation does manufactor the sets until ordered by the customer. That way the wood is not setting around in a box for months at a time waiting for a buyer. The wood is triple dried before being sent to the dealer, and in the yard within a week. The Wood finishs the drying process in the set configuration. Can't get any better than that.


Don't get me wrong, Rainbow has a great product. The Sunray is a great set for the price, but the Ranger is also. I not sure I would consider them the leader in the industry anymore.

My lifetime kits start at $1599.00.

My biggest seller is a box kit at 1399.00 that allows for the parents to play with their kids.

We may get the Gorilla Playsets Blue Ridge Mountain Cabin Gym Play Center and Swing Set from walmart the only thing is the shipping almost $400, I think is made with pine here is the description:

( Loaded with fun and exciting play activities, the Blue Ridge Mountain Cabin offers solid construction for hours of use and the ultimate in play set luxury. Choice-grade, factory stained and sealed preserved pine prevents rot, decay and termite damage. Poly-coated fir beams are maintenance-free, splinter-free and weather resistant. Plus, the set includes a personalized sign. Personalize your Mountain Cabin through Gorilla Playsets with up to 20 characters, including spaces. Please allow 4-6 weeks for personalization from the Manufacturer, Gorilla Playsets. Further details are included with item upon delivery )

But first I would like to know if you have a website so I can see your sets?

Thanks.

"Castle" is a name for Rainbow playsets. Its has nothing to do with the Ranger. 2. In my area Costcos only care swingsets during the spring/summer months, therefore I am not sure anyone can purchase the Sunray. The outside beams of the Ranger are redwood, its is a strong southern pine that is the encased beams. In my research I did not find any testing that "matched" the results of Rainbows, therefore I took it with a grain of salt. I personally feel that the pvc-coated beams are added protection against weather/wood rot damage.

That being said, the majority of Playnation sets do not have the poly-coated beams. The Ranger and Shenondoah are the two ten year warranty kits, and they do have them. The Green Mountain line in the lifetime warranty kits also have them. That would account for less that 25% of the entire Playnation line. Also Playnation does manufactor the sets until ordered by the customer. That way the wood is not setting around in a box for months at a time waiting for a buyer. The wood is triple dried before being sent to the dealer, and in the yard within a week. The Wood finishs the drying process in the set configuration. Can't get any better than that.


Don't get me wrong, Rainbow has a great product. The Sunray is a great set for the price, but the Ranger is also. I not sure I would consider them the leader in the industry anymore.

Mrs. Trish-
Not trying to argue with you- the "Castle" is just a reference to the design, as the Ranger and Sunray are "Castles"- though the Sunray also is a "Clubhouse" in alternate years. I am not stating that Playnation swingsets are not decent quality; I just personally feel (and having assembled both) that the Sunray line is a better deal for the money, in that particular price range.
A side note- I have disassembled old swingsets, and 1 that was about 6 years old had extensive rot; that set was encased in PVC, and the wood was pine.

Mrs. Trish-
Not trying to argue with you- the "Castle" is just a reference to the design, as the Ranger and Sunray are "Castles"- though the Sunray also is a "Clubhouse" in alternate years. I am not stating that Playnation swingsets are not decent quality; I just personally feel (and having assembled both) that the Sunray line is a better deal for the money, in that particular price range.
A side note- I have disassembled old swingsets, and 1 that was about 6 years old had extensive rot; that set was encased in PVC, and the wood was pine.

I don't doubt for a second that you have, but was that a Playnation or Gorilla set? If I am remembering correctly A set six years old would have been treated with CCQ or ACQ. I am thinking it would be ACQ, and that would explain some of the rotting because the bolts would have been gone. Playnation uses MCQ treated Pine which does not rot out bolts. I would say a quarter of my customers this year where people who bought a set at a box store, and the set did not outlive the children. I don't want anyone to see that happen to them.

Its a personal OP on which is better. I sell Playnation, I used to sell the Costco sets before I went with Playnation. They are both decent sets for the money. The Ranger is a great set, Customers of mine are happy with it.

Thanks to everyone who is participating in this thread. It really helps when I'm trying to decide on a playset for my daughter, who is 18 months right now. It seems like the Sunray is very highly ranked, but unfortunately, there is no Costco near Baton Rouge, LA, so I'd have to get it shipped. From what MrsTrish says, the Gorilla brand is very good as well, so I'll probably see about that as well.

Does anyone know if some of these dealers will have sales roughly around the time the tax rebate checks start to roll in? I went to our local Rainbow store today, and they had a very nice demo, but it was sold already, and a comparable one was not available.

Mrs Trish: I have been researching affordable swingsets online extensively and trying to weigh the differences in sets under 3k based on accessories included, quality and longevity and warranty. I was almost completely decided on the Costco Sunray set based on the 1399 price (if you p.u. in store), all of the accessories it comes with and the warranty. But.....I kept going back to the Gorilla sets for a few reasons. 1. I liked the color scheme and overall appearance better (my house is forest green....Sunray is blue) 2. They come with an extra slide...or 2 extra slides and have two-level clubhouses. But, they are also more than double the price.

Prettier set and an extra slide or two is not worth 1200+ more dollars if the quality and longevity is not as high as the Sunray though.

I had been comparing the Blue Ridge Retreat avail from Walmart ($2585 inc. shipping) but then found that the Highlander I and II are vailable from Costco (including shipping 2699 or 2899 with 2 or 3 slides) and inc. more accessories than the Walmart version.

So now I am confused. Could you tell me what you think of the Gorilla sets specifically with regard to the wood used and the poly wrapping and hardware included? They seem to come with a good warranty and I would be willing to spring for the extra money for the extra activities it comes with, especially the slides, if the quality is high. I noticed somewhere online that Gorilla is a sub-division of PlayNation too which I noticed you rated highly but I don't know the differences between the two lines. Have you ever installed a Gorilla Highlander set and what did you think of it? Or do you carry them on your lot?

I saw the Costco Sunray assembled at the store but don't know where I could go to see a Gorilla set assembled.

Thanks so much for any imput you might have. I just want to feel confident in the quality of the wood and hardware used on the Gorilla Sets before I decide to spend a lot more money for the additional slides and "prettier" color scheme.

Thanks!

I see these swing sets that have the monkey bar located over the swings. Is this not a danger for the kids. I can see some child releasing or falling from the monker bars and getting their leg caught in the swing. They then would flip over and land on their head. For thoses with such a swing set, am I wrong to think such an accident could occur?

I am looking for a set where the monkey bars are separated fromt he swing area. Has anyone ever visted or heard of willygoat.com? Are the wooden swing sets they sell quality?

Mrs Trish: I have been researching affordable swingsets online extensively and trying to weigh the differences in sets under 3k based on accessories included, quality and longevity and warranty. I was almost completely decided on the Costco Sunray set based on the 1399 price (if you p.u. in store), all of the accessories it comes with and the warranty. But.....I kept going back to the Gorilla sets for a few reasons. 1. I liked the color scheme and overall appearance better (my house is forest green....Sunray is blue) 2. They come with an extra slide...or 2 extra slides and have two-level clubhouses. But, they are also more than double the price.

Prettier set and an extra slide or two is not worth 1200+ more dollars if the quality and longevity is not as high as the Sunray though.

I had been comparing the Blue Ridge Retreat avail from Walmart ($2585 inc. shipping) but then found that the Highlander I and II are vailable from Costco (including shipping 2699 or 2899 with 2 or 3 slides) and inc. more accessories than the Walmart version.

So now I am confused. Could you tell me what you think of the Gorilla sets specifically with regard to the wood used and the poly wrapping and hardware included? They seem to come with a good warranty and I would be willing to spring for the extra money for the extra activities it comes with, especially the slides, if the quality is high. I noticed somewhere online that Gorilla is a sub-division of PlayNation too which I noticed you rated highly but I don't know the differences between the two lines. Have you ever installed a Gorilla Highlander set and what did you think of it? Or do you carry them on your lot?

I saw the Costco Sunray assembled at the store but don't know where I could go to see a Gorilla set assembled.

Thanks so much for any imput you might have. I just want to feel confident in the quality of the wood and hardware used on the Gorilla Sets before I decide to spend a lot more money for the additional slides and "prettier" color scheme.

Thanks!

Gorilla is a division of Playnation, along with Planet Playgrounds. I sell all three brands. This is a hard question for me, because I do not know if Rainbow has started using Cunninghamia in its playsets that are sold at Costco. Cunninghamia scares me because it is from China, and well we all know how well that is working out. Gorilla uses California Redwood, Cedar, or Georgia Pine for its swingsets. The wood and hardware is great, heavy duty iron ductiles, slides are heavy with high sides to reduce injury. The set is so heavy that adults can swing and the set does not need to be anchored in the ground.

Playnation is meant to compete against Rainbow and other lifetime warranty brands. Gorilla is meant to compete against what the box stores carry, and is the original swingset in a box company. We have installed the Highlander series sets, and they are just like any Gorilla with the hardware coming seperated in bags vs the hardware coming in one big bag. I do carry the gorilla on my lot, and its a great swingset. The Highlander series is pricey, but comes with everything a swingset can, including bumber pads.

Hopefully this has helped you out.

I see these swing sets that have the monkey bar located over the swings. Is this not a danger for the kids. I can see some child releasing or falling from the monker bars and getting their leg caught in the swing. They then would flip over and land on their head. For thoses with such a swing set, am I wrong to think such an accident could occur?

I am looking for a set where the monkey bars are separated fromt he swing area. Has anyone ever visted or heard of willygoat.com? Are the wooden swing sets they sell quality?

Monkeybars/swing arm are a conflicting playzone. Gorilla is currently taking this feature away from the couple of sets it does carry for this very reason.

Willygoat basically carries a little bit of everything, so some are quality some are not.

Gorilla is a division of Playnation, along with Planet Playgrounds. I sell all three brands. This is a hard question for me, because I do not know if Rainbow has started using Cunninghamia in its playsets that are sold at Costco. Cunninghamia scares me because it is from China, and well we all know how well that is working out. Gorilla uses California Redwood, Cedar, or Georgia Pine for its swingsets. The wood and hardware is great, heavy duty iron ductiles, slides are heavy with high sides to reduce injury. The set is so heavy that adults can swing and the set does not need to be anchored in the ground.

Playnation is meant to compete against Rainbow and other lifetime warranty brands. Gorilla is meant to compete against what the box stores carry, and is the original swingset in a box company. We have installed the Highlander series sets, and they are just like any Gorilla with the hardware coming seperated in bags vs the hardware coming in one big bag. I do carry the gorilla on my lot, and its a great swingset. The Highlander series is pricey, but comes with everything a swingset can, including bumber pads.

Hopefully this has helped you out.

Thanks for the info. I am aware of the Cunninghamia and it seems to be a type of fir tree but have been told by a Sunray installer that although they were worried about that wood as well, it is not used on the structural beams/swing beam of the Sunray. But....I really like the Highlander set because of all that it includes and the color scheme is nicer....I am just concerned about the set being made of pine and some of it being poly wrapped. If you had to choose between the Sunray (which I know you don't sell) and the Highlander (without regard for price) which would you choose based on durability and safety. Someone also mentioned to me that the hardware on the Gorilla sets was not as strong as the Sunray (specifically where the swing bar attaches). I also noted that they mention extra space on the swing bar for the Gorilla sets....do you know if they happen to be longer than other sets. I like the idea of more space between swings.

Gorilla is a division of Playnation, along with Planet Playgrounds. I sell all three brands. This is a hard question for me, because I do not know if Rainbow has started using Cunninghamia in its playsets that are sold at Costco. Cunninghamia scares me because it is from China, and well we all know how well that is working out. Gorilla uses California Redwood, Cedar, or Georgia Pine for its swingsets. The wood and hardware is great, heavy duty iron ductiles, slides are heavy with high sides to reduce injury. The set is so heavy that adults can swing and the set does not need to be anchored in the ground.

Playnation is meant to compete against Rainbow and other lifetime warranty brands. Gorilla is meant to compete against what the box stores carry, and is the original swingset in a box company. We have installed the Highlander series sets, and they are just like any Gorilla with the hardware coming seperated in bags vs the hardware coming in one big bag. I do carry the gorilla on my lot, and its a great swingset. The Highlander series is pricey, but comes with everything a swingset can, including bumber pads.

Hopefully this has helped you out.

O.k....so I am even more confused now....I just looked at the Playnation site and they sell sets that look exactly like the Highlander set....one is the Shenandoah. Can you tell me the difference between the Gorilla Highlander and the Playnation Shenandoah or something similar. I am interested in the difference in the woods used and the prices and the warranty, etc. The Playnation sets all look great but it's hard to compare when I can't find a website with prices for the various sets they show. The closest Playnation dealer to me is pretty far away.

O.k....so I am even more confused now....I just looked at the Playnation site and they sell sets that look exactly like the Highlander set....one is the Shenandoah. Can you tell me the difference between the Gorilla Highlander and the Playnation Shenandoah or something similar. I am interested in the difference in the woods used and the prices and the warranty, etc. The Playnation sets all look great but it's hard to compare when I can't find a website with prices for the various sets they show. The closest Playnation dealer to me is pretty far away.

The Highlander is Pine, the Shenandoah is Redwood. They both hold the ten year warranty. The Highlander has a couple more extras too it, but basically the same.

Playnation sets are dealer exclusive, each dealer sets its own pricing for the sets. If you want to PM me I can give you "ideas" on what the cost might be, but again if your not in my sales area I am not allowed to sell to you.

Hi Mrs. Trish and others-

I was also worried initially when I saw the "Cunninghamia" label for the Sunray. Rainbow (the parent company of Sunray) has for years protested using this kind of wood- pick up any Rainbow dealer catalogue, and toward the back they have an entire section about the "China Fir". Here's what I found it:
First- the "China Fir" is actually not even a fir; it's a cypress; and Sunray is not the only company that has started to use it- and most of this so-called "China Fir" is not coming out of China to begin with. I have installed 2 Sunrays this year, and can verify what was said in an earlier post- the main 4x4 structural posts (2 on each end on each side, and 2 shorter ones in the middle- 6 total) and the main swing beam (the only swing beam) are solid redwood. I have not noticed a difference in the quality of the wood, but I suppose time will tell if the "cunninghamia" is sound or not. I cannot imagine a company as respected as Rainbow cutting corners to save a few dollars, by using inferior wood in their boxed kits. Also- the hardware on the Sunray has always been top notch, and beefy. I remember installing a Creative Playthings set last year, and could not believe how small and lightweight the hardware was; the monkey bar hardware was 1/4".

***I do not work for Sunray or Rainbow, FYI.

Thanks for the info. I am aware of the Cunninghamia and it seems to be a type of fir tree but have been told by a Sunray installer that although they were worried about that wood as well, it is not used on the structural beams/swing beam of the Sunray. But....I really like the Highlander set because of all that it includes and the color scheme is nicer....I am just concerned about the set being made of pine and some of it being poly wrapped. If you had to choose between the Sunray (which I know you don't sell) and the Highlander (without regard for price) which would you choose based on durability and safety. Someone also mentioned to me that the hardware on the Gorilla sets was not as strong as the Sunray (specifically where the swing bar attaches). I also noted that they mention extra space on the swing bar for the Gorilla sets....do you know if they happen to be longer than other sets. I like the idea of more space between swings.

I would choose the Highlander, because of the more options. The Spiral slide is the best, I even go down it, and enjoy it. If they are not using the Cunnignhamia in the support beams, and swing beam then, and I have not seen this years set, then it would be a good set. As far as the hardware on the Gorilla sets, it is very strong. My personal Op is that the bracketing system for the Gorillas is stronger than the metal plate system that shows on the Costco page for the sunray. Gorilla does space out the swings more then most other retailers.

Hi Mrs. Trish and others-

I was also worried initially when I saw the "Cunninghamia" label for the Sunray. Rainbow (the parent company of Sunray) has for years protested using this kind of wood- pick up any Rainbow dealer catalogue, and toward the back they have an entire section about the "China Fir". Here's what I found it:
First- the "China Fir" is actually not even a fir; it's a cypress; and Sunray is not the only company that has started to use it- and most of this so-called "China Fir" is not coming out of China to begin with. I have installed 2 Sunrays this year, and can verify what was said in an earlier post- the main 4x4 structural posts (2 on each end on each side, and 2 shorter ones in the middle- 6 total) and the main swing beam (the only swing beam) are solid redwood. I have not noticed a difference in the quality of the wood, but I suppose time will tell if the "cunninghamia" is sound or not. I cannot imagine a company as respected as Rainbow cutting corners to save a few dollars, by using inferior wood in their boxed kits. Also- the hardware on the Sunray has always been top notch, and beefy. I remember installing a Creative Playthings set last year, and could not believe how small and lightweight the hardware was; the monkey bar hardware was 1/4".

***I do not work for Sunray or Rainbow, FYI.

Rainbow is really surprising alot of people this year, and the "buzz" is that they are losing dealers because of the switch to "Cunninghamia". I won't lie and say that I was surprised quite and bit when I saw that. We almost took the Rainbow dealership for my area, but choose Playnation because they also carry commercial sets. Best decision of my life.

I have really learned a lot reading through all of the posts here! Thanks so much. My latest obsession has been to find my daughters a swing set for the summer. MrsTrish or scottlwill you seem to have a lot of knowledge regarding the swing sets. The three I am down to are:

1) Woodridge Swing Set from Sam's Club (I think this is the 2008 version of the Cambridge)
2) Sunray from Costco
3) Gorilla Blue Ridge Chateau

First, do you know if the Woodridge has improved any from the Cambridge version of last year? Second, it sounds like the Sunray's quality may have decreased some would you agree?

I just want to make sure I make the right decision for our girls and choose something that will last. Also, MrsTrish, I saw a question asking for a website for you but didn't see a reply on that, do you have one?

I have really learned a lot reading through all of the posts here! Thanks so much. My latest obsession has been to find my daughters a swing set for the summer. MrsTrish or scottlwill you seem to have a lot of knowledge regarding the swing sets. The three I am down to are:

1) Woodridge Swing Set from Sam's Club (I think this is the 2008 version of the Cambridge)
2) Sunray from Costco
3) Gorilla Blue Ridge Chateau

First, do you know if the Woodridge has improved any from the Cambridge version of last year? Second, it sounds like the Sunray's quality may have decreased some would you agree?

I just want to make sure I make the right decision for our girls and choose something that will last. Also, MrsTrish, I saw a question asking for a website for you but didn't see a reply on that, do you have one?

Woodridge same as the Cambridge but stained.

Chateau is my favorite gorilla set, loooove the wood roof on it. Easy to put up.If you are looking at the Chateau I would suggest waiting a bit as there might be some more sets like it coming out. (wink, wink) We haven't put up a Sunray this year, so I cannot honestly say if it better or worse from last year. What I do know is the Rainbow has started using a Chinese wood, but I do not know if is in the Sunray or not.

I do have a website, but am afraid that giving it out would be against TOS, so...

I've installed 2 Sunrays this year so far. With regard to the "China fir"- I honestly cannot tell the difference between any of the wood that was on the set last year, and the wood on the set this year- and I installed more than 50 Sunrays last year.
As Mrs. Trish mentioned, it's a matter of personal preference. The Sunray in my opinion is great for the younger kids, but I have found that by age 9 or so, they seem to get bored of it- this is, of course probably not true with all kids, as unpredictable as they are.
The warranty has not changed on the Sunray; the customer service has also always been extremely reliable.

I am very curious to know what you bought..
We are also looking to buy and it is between
SunRay
Woodridge
Creative Playthings star cedar
I liked the gorilla but heard that they are not as durable and do not have as high of a weight bearing load.
Are the sun ray's really small?
we have 3 children between baby and age 5 and want somehting that is not pine and also that will grow with our children.

I have called willygoat to compare sets and found them to be more expensive than other places but for the most part very helpful.

I am very curious to know what you bought..
We are also looking to buy and it is between
SunRay
Woodridge
Creative Playthings star cedar
I liked the gorilla but heard that they are not as durable and do not have as high of a weight bearing load.
Are the sun ray's really small?
we have 3 children between baby and age 5 and want somehting that is not pine and also that will grow with our children.

I'm sorry, but the gorilla weight limits are 150# per implement. That means that you can have 3 150# adults swinging at the same time. As far as durability, we had one set we set up in March of last year, hit by a tornado this past Jan.. and the fort was fine. The outer implements like the rope wall, slide etc needed replaced. They highest weight limits in the box kit market, if the Sunray is still 140

When we where selling the Sun Rays they where not "small" and I can't imagine from the pics that they have reduced in size.

I was not able to PM you back due to SD restrictions.

when I called sun ray they said that the weight limit is 150 lbs per swing or 1000 total.

Willygoat reps said that the gorilla (blue mountain chateau) was made of pine and not as sturdy as some others. Are the sunray's essentially the same as the starter rainbow fiesta's?

I tried calling our local rainbow store and they were not helpful and kind of snotty.
afte reading all of the posts I definely am scared of the woodbridge, espcially the comments about the top heavy and thin wood.

what are the footing's on the gorilla'? I do like that sun ray's are 4 X 6 beams

QUOTE=2goldfish;10476970]when I called sun ray they said that the weight limit is 150 lbs per swing or 1000 total.

Willygoat reps said that the gorilla (blue mountain chateau) was made of pine and not as sturdy as some others. Are the sunray's essentially the same as the starter rainbow fiesta's?

I tried calling our local rainbow store and they were not helpful and kind of snotty.
afte reading all of the posts I definely am scared of the woodbridge, espcially the comments about the top heavy and thin wood.

what are the footing's on the gorilla'? I do like that sun ray's are 4 X 6 beams[/QUOTE]

The Chateau has 4x4 leg posts, and a 4x6 swingbeam. After looking at the Costco picture the support beams look to me to be 4x4 witha 4x6 swingbeam. I will post pictures of the Pine ranger hit by a tornado in a bit.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/100_3771.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/100_3768.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/100_3767.jpg

The weight limit on the swings on the Sunray is 150 lbs., for each swing. The total weight limit on the set is 1000 lbs. With regard to the swings- I'm about 190 lbs., and the set doesn't sway when I'm on a swing; provided the set is installed properly, and is level.
The four corner posts, and the shorter 2 center posts are 4x4's, as Mrs. Trish stated. The swing beam is a 4x6, and is heavy. These 6 posts, and the swing beam are solid redwood, and are very strong.

can you email me directly? I live in the Midwest-MN and we don;t have a rep here and I am interested in more in fo on the gorilla's. quack1029...comcast.net

I just found this thread after completing assembly of the Sam's Cambridge set last week. We purchased it last year, but I understand it's identical to the 2008 Woodridge set, except the Woodridge is stained. FIrst of all, it's a lot of work to get it assembled, but if you can follow directions and use basic tools, anyone can put this set together. Figure on 30 hours for an adult with a basic understanding of tools and assembly procedures. I did it over the course of 4 weekends, working a few hours each Saturday and Sunday, plus an hour or so after work once in a while. I also had a bit of help from my wife doing simple things like putting washers on bolts and retrieving the proper parts so I didn't have to climb up and down while working on it. Once it was done, it felt it was secure and sturdy, but if I climbed to the top and shook as hard as I could, I was able to get a little bit of movement out of it. I realized that many of the boards are held together with one or two bolts at each end, and that was causing it to move a little bit. I purchased a box of 2" wood screws, and spent a half-hour driving a couple hundred of them into all of the support/brace boards that were only held together with bolts at each end. The whole set is now ROCK SOLID. There is no movement what-so-ever. I am confident that it's as safe and sturdy as any playset can be. I used the supplied ground anchors into the dirt, but even without them, this thing would not tip or fall - no way. Overall, we are very happy with the Cambridge unit, and for the price it can't be beat.

Oh, the other thing I did was make a hinged cover for the sand box area so that it doesn't turn into a litter box for neighborhood cats. When the lid is down, it's a sub-floor, when it's up, it's a sand box. Very easy and useful addition.

I was looking at the "Create-N-Adventure Windsor Wood Gym" in a local TRU ad and wondered if anyone has had any experience with it. If so would you recommend it? Who makes it? Thanks.

Woodridge same as the Cambridge but stained.

Chateau is my favorite gorilla set, loooove the wood roof on it. Easy to put up.If you are looking at the Chateau I would suggest waiting a bit as there might be some more sets like it coming out. (wink, wink) We haven't put up a Sunray this year, so I cannot honestly say if it better or worse from last year. What I do know is the Rainbow has started using a Chinese wood, but I do not know if is in the Sunray or not.

I do have a website, but am afraid that giving it out would be against TOS, so...

MrsTrish, what are your thoughts about creative playthings sets? They seem to have a pretty good warranty.

I was looking at the "Create-N-Adventure Windsor Wood Gym" in a local TRU ad and wondered if anyone has had any experience with it. If so would you recommend it? Who makes it? Thanks.

Adventure Playsets makes the Windsor (brand new for 2008). It is the same company as Backyard Adventures. They are both owned by Backyard Leisure LLC. Last year Backyard Leisure purchased both Backyard Adventures and Leisure Time. The manual for the Windsor is online at http://www.adventureplaysets.com. The telephone number is (806) 622-1220 if you have questions. It is 100% made of Chinese Cedar (Cryptomeria Fortunei) which is supposedly good wood according to my research on the internet. I have purchased this set and having it picked up and installed for me tomorrow for $250. I have not seen one in person and I have not read any reviews. So I am definitely taking a leap of faith. However, I was able to purchase it for $1062.50 (on sale thru tomorrow)after getting 15% discount and 6 months no interest card card from ToysRUs. It does appear that this unit is large with a 32 square foot clubhouse with a wood roof.

If you want, I will let you know my impressions after it is up.

Wow, heckuva long thread. After reading/skimming 150+ posts I'll do a quick summary so others don't have to. Cambridge Wooden Swing Set (aka Woodridge) from Sam's is not preferred by 2 professional installers posting on this site. For that price point ~$1300, they prefer the Sunray from CostCo. Also note that several consumers have posted and have said that they are satisfied with the Sam's Club set (although most say assembly is difficult, especially due to ID labels not sticking to pieces). Similar sets from Lowe's and Home Depot are okay, but you may want to consider substituting better wood/hardware when appropriate.

Now for my question.. Does anyone have experience with "everything but the lumber" kits like that from DetailedPlay.com? It looks like a pretty good deal as you can get quality wood from your local lumber company. They advertise you could build a set similar to that from Sam's and CostCo (smaller platform, no tunnel over swings) for under $1000. Their sets are also similar to Lowe's/Home Depot in that you can add on and expand as you like.

My wife and I are trying to decide if something like that would be better than a complete deal from Sam's/CostCo or not. I have only looked briefly at CostCo's website, but it seems the Sunray is now going for $1700, a bit higher than I can afford at this time. So based on this forum, I'm thinking a "everything but the lumber" kit may be the best choice for us. Thoughts?

I have only looked briefly at CostCo's website, but it seems the Sunray is now going for $1700, a bit higher than I can afford at this time. So based on this forum, I'm thinking a "everything but the lumber" kit may be the best choice for us. Thoughts?

My mistake here. The online price includes Shipping & Handling. I called the closest store and it is $1400. So maybe a possibility...

hello, was wondering if any one could help me with a negotiating question? went to check out a turbocharged sunshine clubhouse package II loaded from rainbow. price listed was 6799. installed of course we know thiswill not be the final price as being a former salesman i know there isa huge mark up in all items. my quetion is- the sales person droped the price 1000 to 5799 plus tax bringing it to 6306.what you guys think- letssee- tough economy-gas prices and food prices going thru the roof!! i figure ill offer 5000 tax incl. with install. and they will still be making a big profit. plus its the off season-
any comments welcome- this is the buffalo new york region.
mike

Does anyone has any feedback on the Disney Palisade II from Home Depot (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100609680&categoryID=500840)?

It looks like a pretty good deal for the price too. The price does not include the 9 support beams, which means you can get as good of quality as you want there.

Here's is the manufacturer's site (http://www.swing-n-slide.com/timberbilt/index.htm).

Thanks.

Adventure Playsets makes the Windsor (brand new for 2008). It is the same company as Backyard Adventures. They are both owned by Backyard Leisure LLC. Last year Backyard Leisure purchased both Backyard Adventures and Leisure Time. The manual for the Windsor is online at http://www.adventureplaysets.com. The telephone number is (806) 622-1220 if you have questions. It is 100% made of Chinese Cedar (Cryptomeria Fortunei) which is supposedly good wood according to my research on the internet. I have purchased this set and having it picked up and installed for me tomorrow for $250. I have not seen one in person and I have not read any reviews. So I am definitely taking a leap of faith. However, I was able to purchase it for $1062.50 (on sale thru tomorrow)after getting 15% discount and 6 months no interest card card from ToysRUs. It does appear that this unit is large with a 32 square foot clubhouse with a wood roof.

If you want, I will let you know my impressions after it is up.

Yes please. I would appreciate your feedback. Good Luck and Thanks!

Yes please. I would appreciate your feedback. Good Luck and Thanks!

Installers have stopped for the day. The clubhouse is up except for the wood roof and the swing beam. I climbed up onto the second floor. It seems very stable. I weigh 175 lbs. and it does not give under my weight. I really like the color of the wood. It looks like the color of redwood. The clubhouse seems large. No broken parts but one turnbuckle is missing for the swing set. I will have one shipped out for free - no big deal. 2 experienced men worked on it about 7 hours today and estimate a couple more tomorrow. I will let you know more later.

My wife and I just finished installing a 2008 version of the Cambridge from sam's. We love it! We are both moderately skilled at things like this, and we have a relatively flat backyard, but even without those 2 factors, we feel that anyone could put this playset together with ease. It took us around 20 hours from start to finish. All of the wood pieces are stamped now, instead of the stickers from last year, so it was easy to find and organize them. It would have been a nightmare without the stamps! You will definitely want a drill with at least 2 batteries, a socket adapter for the drill, and several screwdriver bits (they get worn out after awhile). If you have these tools, assembly is a breeze! My wife did over half of it by herself at home alone with 4 kids. There are only a few steps that require two people. As others have pointed out, the wood is not the highest quality, but when fully assembled this playset is exteremely sturdy. I have no reservations about playing on it with my children!
I am concerned about the rock ladder, but only because we have 2 toddlers. I think it would be fine for age 2 and up. To remedy my concerns, I have removed the bottom 2 rungs on the ladder, which keeps them off of it, but allows my 3 and 5 year old to still climb it.
I have read all of the posts concerning this playset, and here is my take on it:
1. There were probably a lot of glitches with the set last year because it was the first model year. Just as with any product, the first model often has issues that are worked out the following year. My set had all of the pieces intact and well marked. The directions were very straight forward and easy to follow.
2. The wood quality does not concern me. Do you really need a lifetime warranty on your playset? I am being realistic in my outlook. I am putting a sealer on it this afternoon, and I will continue to seal it every year. I will also check the bolts on a regular basis to make sure they are tight, which will reduce strain on the wood. My youngest kids are 18 months, so if the playset lasts me 8 years, they will have certainly outgrown it by then. Whether it is in terrific condition or horrible condition I will be getting rid of it. To get a set like this with a lifetime warranty, I would have to shell out at least $5000, compared to $1200 for the Cambridge. So, I could either pay $1200 for 8 years of enjoyment or $5000 for 8 years of enjoyment- is there even a choice? Worst case scenario is that it looks so horrible after 4 years, I decide I need buy a new set. I would pay another $1200, have a brand new playset, and still will have paid less than half of what a Rainbow would cost.
3. Beware of people who make a living based on the price of what you buy from them. I am not insinuating that anyone on this board is being purposely dishonest. They are just being a good salesperson- presenting a very narrow point of view to convince you that you need what their product offers. Think of it this way- a car dealer will often point to an extended warranty as a reason why their cars cost more than others, and he will try to convince you that you need it. But unless you drive that car for 20 years, you will probably never have a problem covered by the warranty. And if you do have a problem, you will often find out that your problem is either not covered, or you will still have to pay for labor- as some posters have already pointed out about Rainbow. Are you really going to have the playset long enough to make the price difference worth it.
If anyone is looking for a very fun, sturdy playset at a great price, Cambridge is the way to go!

I was looking at the "Create-N-Adventure Windsor Wood Gym" in a local TRU ad and wondered if anyone has had any experience with it. If so would you recommend it? Who makes it? Thanks.

My husband and I purchased this playset at Toys'R'Us on Friday night. Because of rain, we weren't able to start assembly until Sunday morning. We worked on it about 8 hours so far, and I doubt we are even half way in completing it. We have run into several issues so far it putting together this playset. First of all, not one piece of wood has any type of labeling on it, which makes finding the pieces you need very time consuming as you have to measure the boards and compare them to the pictures in the instruction manual. Also, there have been several bolts that were defective in that the washers will not fit properly over them. My husband has had to grind down the inside of the washers to make them fit. Four out of ten rocks for the rock wall are defective; the plastic around where the bolt is to fit in is not properly carved out, making them impossible to use. We'll have to contact the manufacturer for replacements. One of the boards for the rock wall has too many pre-drilled holes in it (which are rather large), though it is definately the correct board. And there is at least one board that is cracked and ready to snap...we'll need a replacement of this as well.
When we bought this playset, we were excited because it was on sale for $250 off plus we got an additional $187 off for opening a new credit account, with no payments or interest for 6 months. But when we went to Sam's and saw the Cambridge on Saturday (we went for dog food), my husband and I both kind of like that model a tiny bit better. Because of the sale and 15% off promotion, we paid a little less for the Windsor. But from what I'm reading and the experience we've had installing the Windsor so far, the Cambridge may have been a better choice.

The installers finished after another 4 hours work on Sunday. Without a doubt the best $250 I have ever spent. They picked it up, put it together, and cleaned up/hauled off everything when they finished. The playset is very level and sturdy. I have 2 full bucket toddler seats coming and my missing turnbuckle is on its way via fedex. When it stops raining I will put sealer on it. It has a nice redwood stain. I think that a wood roof is much more preferable to plastic or fabric. I have not seen the Cambridge in person, but the Windsor is configured differently than the Cambridge. The Cambridge does not have a glider but rather a trapeze bar. The Cambridge does not have a spiral slide but rather a straight one. The Cambridge does not have a 10 year warranty on the wood, but rather a 5 year one. The Cambridge does not expose all the wood, but rather has plastic coated support posts. I am happy with my purchase and would recommend professional installation if you don't want to hassle with it and want it done right the first time.

Does anyone have any feedback for the Little Tikes Arcadia swingset? It is in the Toys R Us ad this week and looks so cute and a good price. I can't seem to find any information on it. I called Little Tikes and asked some questions but the girl on the phone was just reading from a manual and didn't understand what I was asking:) I am just trying to find out how big the play decks are and just overall satisfaction with the product. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

The installers finished after another 4 hours work on Sunday. Without a doubt the best $250 I have ever spent. They picked it up, put it together, and cleaned up/hauled off everything when they finished. The playset is very level and sturdy. I have 2 full bucket toddler seats coming and my missing turnbuckle is on its way via fedex. When it stops raining I will put sealer on it. It has a nice redwood stain. I think that a wood roof is much more preferable to plastic or fabric. I have not seen the Cambridge in person, but the Windsor is configured differently than the Cambridge. The Cambridge does not have a glider but rather a trapeze bar. The Cambridge does not have a spiral slide but rather a straight one. The Cambridge does not have a 10 year warranty on the wood, but rather a 5 year one. The Cambridge does not expose all the wood, but rather has plastic coated support posts. I am happy with my purchase and would recommend professional installation if you don't want to hassle with it and want it done right the first time.



Hi..just wondering if you were satisfied with the overall quality of your swingset so far. I purchased the same one last week from Toys R Us, the Windsor, and so far I have had two professional installers tell me that I should consider a different model due to their opinion that this model is low quality. Since it is so new I cannot find any research on it online....so any and all info on your impressions of it would be appreciated. Thanks

Hi..just wondering if you were satisfied with the overall quality of your swingset so far. I purchased the same one last week from Toys R Us, the Windsor, and so far I have had two professional installers tell me that I should consider a different model due to their opinion that this model is low quality. Since it is so new I cannot find any research on it online....so any and all info on your impressions of it would be appreciated. Thanks

Remember I only paid $1062.50 for the playset. I am very pleased with its appearance, strength, functionality, and stability. Now my kids have not played on it yet because it has been raining other than using the glider and slide a little. I can tell you my son comes home from daycare and runs to the playset.

I have no doubt that the sets in the 3K to 5K range are very nice. But I did not want to spend 3 times more money. How do your installers personally know anything about the set? Have they installed them before? I doubt it since it is a brand new 2008 set that just came out for sale. If you want the best, there are plenty to choose from. I am happy with the product I have and have no concerns about its safety for my children.

I did want to add that I got the missing turnbuckle this afternoon via fedex after I called customer service for Adventure Playsets Monday morning. They answered the phone on the first ring and were very helpful. Their customer service is also available on the weekend.

Remember I only paid $1062.50 for the playset. I am very pleased with its appearance, strength, functionality, and stability. Now my kids have not played on it yet because it has been raining other than using the glider and slide a little. I can tell you my son comes home from daycare and runs to the playset.

I have no doubt that the sets in the 3K to 5K range are very nice. But I did not want to spend 3 times more money. How do your installers personally know anything about the set? Have they installed them before? I doubt it since it is a brand new 2008 set that just came out for sale. If you want the best, there are plenty to choose from. I am happy with the product I have and have no concerns about its safety for my children.

Thanks for your help!

I too was wondering if anyone knows anything about the little tikes arcadia playset sold at TRU. I just purchased it since it was on sale for $1699 and it has 2 slides, all wood roof, 3 level climbing decks. I couldn't find much info on it with only 1 customer review. Please let me know if anyone knows anything about it or has an opinion.

[ I am happy with my purchase.[/QUOTE] from Dealanator

I, too, am considering the Windsor. I tried to call Customer Service but it's too late AND it's Good Friday. I have a discount coupon for 20% off that ends tomorrow (the 22nd) so I'm trying to decide by tomorrow.

Could you tell me if the swing beam is a 4x6?
Is the whole thing made out of Cedar? If not, what wood is it?
Do you feel like you (as an adult) could get on it without a problem?

Thanks for your feedback!!!

I too was wondering if anyone knows anything about the little tikes arcadia playset sold at TRU. I just purchased it since it was on sale for $1699 and it has 2 slides, all wood roof, 3 level climbing decks. I couldn't find much info on it with only 1 customer review. Please let me know if anyone knows anything about it or has an opinion.

I do know (read it in a brochure) that the set is made of Yellow Pine which may be good in some areas of the country but will not stand up to the Arizona sun (where I live). I had called Playnation about one of their Yellow Pine sets and they told me that they won't even ship it here. If you live in a more humid environment, however, it's probably fine.

Good Luck with your decision.

[ I am happy with my purchase. from Dealanator

I, too, am considering the Windsor. I tried to call Customer Service but it's too late AND it's Good Friday. I have a discount coupon for 20% off that ends tomorrow (the 22nd) so I'm trying to decide by tomorrow.

Could you tell me if the swing beam is a 4x6?
Is the whole thing made out of Cedar? If not, what wood is it?
Do you feel like you (as an adult) could get on it without a problem?

Thanks for your feedback!!![/QUOTE]


OK-I found an answer to my first 2 questions.

How about the 3rd? Do you feel it's really stable? We were almost ready to purchase the Sunray from Costco but we liked this slide better and the Monkey bars which I think my twin boys will get more years of use out of than the rope ladder. And this one costs a little less also (with the coupon I have). I know the Sunray is good quality and stable and I'm hoping this one is too.

I think that a wood roof is much more preferable to plastic or fabric.

I agree. The Cambridge/Woodridge also has a very nice quality wooden roof, which you assemble from nice quality individual roof slats.

The Cambridge does not have a glider but rather a trapeze bar.

This is true, but with the Cambridge/Woodridge, one can purchase a the glider as an option sold by Sam's Club (available online). I just ordered it last week. I also ordered the picnic table add-on kit. They also have a sub-floor kit of you want to do away with the sandbox, a sand box cover, a steering wheel, an infant swing, a toddler swing, a play telescope, and a tic-tac-toe activity add on.

The Cambridge does not have a spiral slide but rather a straight one.

True, but the Cambridge/Woodridge has a neat tunnel that goes over the swings, with a platform on the other side.

The Cambridge does not expose all the wood, but rather has plastic coated support posts.

As someone has already pointed out in this thread, coating the support beams with plastic is a GOOD thing. I have no problem with the support beams on my Cambridge.

I am happy with my purchase and would recommend professional installation if you don't want to hassle with it and want it done right the first time.

If you have the ability to put together an Ikea desk by reading the instructions, you can put together the Cambridge/Woodridge. It's just time consuming. But there is a sense of total satisfaction that you've done it yourself when it's all set up that you just can't get by hiring people to do it. I'm proud of that playset, my son loves it, it's extremely sturdy, and I couldn't be more satisfied. Now if only the neighborhood kids would stop ringing my doorbell to ask my son if he wants to "come out and play" on his new playset. Suddenly, he's the most popular kid on the street.

Oh, and another nice touch - if you Google "wooden signs" you will find a lot of nice places that will make a personal sign. Ours says "Andrew's Playhouse".

My point is that there are very few posts, if any, in this thread from actual Cambridge/Woodridge owners who have installed the unit and been unhappy with it in any way. It's just a quality set at a nice price, if you have the time to set it up (20 to 40 hours).

I apperciate your OP and all, but five pieces of imported wood stapled together, then the plastic placed around it does not a decent swingset make.

Call me paranoid, but the amount of "happy" Cambridge owners who all joined just to post in this thread makes me wonder...

I sell swingset parts, I have sold more swing belts this year, due to Cambridge owners having the seats break after one year of use.

I have no idea if the Cambridge or Sunray is better than the Windsor or if the Windsor is better than the Cambridge or Sunray. They all have positive and negative things about the way they are built and configured. I know I am happy so far with my set, but in a year it may fall apart. I will just have to wait and see.

I am glad you had 20 to 40 hours to devote building the set. For me, I would rather pay someone $250 and spend my 20 to 40 hours interacting with my two young children. But that is why they make them as a kit - so homeowners can put them together. Congrats on putting it together yourself. I hope both of our swingsets last longer than our kids want to play on them. These different swingsets are a major subject for obsession - I know I have done my fair share of it. I finally decided I could care less what it is made of as long as it will last and not fall apart and hurt my children.

shiftlock - could you elaborate on your hinged sandbox cover you said you made? I would like to do one also. thanks.

I'd have to agree with Mrs. Trish on this one.
As someone that has extensive experience installing swingsets, and knows a thing or 2 about wood- No, plastic wrapped wood is not necessarily a good thing. In fact, many swingset companies avoid using wrapped wood altogether because it is well known that wood that cannot breathe tends to rot prematurely- Rainbow has done extensive studies on this, and shown it to be true. I am not pleased that Rainbow has recently decided to start using wrapped wood on some of their lower-end models, however.

With regard to the Cambridge- a few points. If the Cambridge is not installed on extremely level ground (think Ice-Skating Rink)- the set has the tendency to "sway" more than it should. Also- although I have not installed this year's new Cambridge or the Woodridge- last year's Cambridge was no picnic to install- anyone that states here that the installation was "easy" is not being completely honest- it was NOT an easy swingset to install, and this was the reason that many installers (myself included) were charging an arm and a leg to install it. Is it a nice set for the money? Yes. Are there things on the set/sets that I don't like? Yes- some of the wood boards are very thin, and I am not crazy about the way the ladder/rocks/tunnel climbing area is designed.

Do any of the installers have any opinion on the Swing-n-slide kits from Lowes? It looks like you buy them in components. A basic set-up including a tower, 3 swings, slide, and rock wall would run about a grand, which includes all the lumber. Not sure if that's really a great deal, but adding a 10% coupon, plus the spring rebate (another 10% back in gift cards) would bring it down a couple hundred. They also have a promo going on with their credit card, no interest, no payments for 12 months.

Link (http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=152433-452-PB8260&lpage=none)

BTW, thanks to all who have contributed to this informative thread,

I have no idea if the Cambridge or Sunray is better than the Windsor or if the Windsor is better than the Cambridge or Sunray. They all have positive and negative things about the way they are built and configured. I know I am happy so far with my set, but in a year it may fall apart. I will just have to wait and see.

I am glad you had 20 to 40 hours to devote building the set. For me, I would rather pay someone $250 and spend my 20 to 40 hours interacting with my two young children. But that is why they make them as a kit - so homeowners can put them together. Congrats on putting it together yourself. I hope both of our swingsets last longer than our kids want to play on them. These different swingsets are a major subject for obsession - I know I have done my fair share of it. I finally decided I could care less what it is made of as long as it will last and not fall apart and hurt my children.


Thanks Dealanator you have been a big help. Based on your feedback, I will most likely go with the Windsor from TRU.

Call me paranoid, but the amount of "happy" Cambridge owners who all joined just to post in this thread makes me wonder...


Call ME paranoid, but I'm a little suspicious of all the dealers/professional installers who seem to have a negative opinion about the Cambridge/Woodbridge set. I suspect they can't make as large a profit margin selling that set, and so they discourage people from buying it.

Are you implying that I have something to do with the manufacturer? Nope, just a satisfied owner/father. I would also be concerned about an installer who said putting this set together is "not easy". Come on, it's just bolts and wood screws. The most difficult tool required is a drill or tape measure. Not exactly rocket science. The directions were understandable, and I just took it one step at a time. I did find one mistake in the assembly instructions, but it was obvious. I've never put together anything bigger than a TV entertainment center, and I had no problems with this playset. Yes, it took a long time, but it wasn't difficult at all. Once you figure out how to get the "spiked T-nuts" to work easily, it's a piece of cake. Of course, I have nothing to compare it to, because it's the only set I've ever done.

Also, my yard isn't as flat as a "skating rink", although it's not sloped either. The set is perfectly stable - more so since I added extra wood screws.

To the person asking about the sandbox cover - I made it from 1 x 4 boards by cutting them to size, laying them out next to each other, then attaching them with a few cross boards (one in the middle and one at each end) using 1-1/2" wood screws. Then I put 2x4's all around the inside edges of the sand box to hold up the cover, and attached the cover to the back of the sand box with some hinges I got at Home Depot. At first I used a hook-and-eye to make sure it didn't fall down when lifted, but I just replaced that with a larger eye and a small pad lock so I'm certain it can't fall down on a child.

Here are some pictures of my Cambridge set that I took from my home office window just now as I typed this. Click on the pictures to see them bigger:

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/9641/cimg3845zt5.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/4246/cimg3846fb0.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/7739/cimg3847ov8.jpg

shiftlock-

Please go back and read my post, and Mrs. Trish's posts carefully.
First- I did point out that I was NOT sure about whether or not they revised the directions. Last year's Cambridge manual was more than 100 pages long, and was a total nightmare to install- and this is the exact sentiment of ALL the professional installers I know. We did not have the luxury of spending 20-40 hours of installation on the set, or taking our time.
Also- you write:
The set is perfectly stable - more so since I added extra wood screws

Can I ask you how stable you think it would be without those extra screws? I do seem to remember you writing it wasn't perfectly stable without them.
I have already stated I think the Cambridge/Woodridge are nice swingsets. Since you haven't installed any other swingsets, and you don't have the experience to compare your installation to any others, you wouldn't be able to state with certainty that the installation was "easy".

[QUOTE=Shiftlock;10689953]Call ME paranoid, but I'm a little suspicious of all the dealers/professional installers who seem to have a negative opinion about the Cambridge/Woodbridge set. I suspect they can't make as large a profit margin selling that set, and so they discourage people from buying it.

Are you implying that I have something to do with the manufacturer? Nope, just a satisfied owner/father. I would also be concerned about an installer who said putting this set together is "not easy". Come on, it's just bolts and wood screws. The most difficult tool required is a drill or tape measure. Not exactly rocket science. The directions were understandable, and I just took it one step at a time. I did find one mistake in the assembly instructions, but it was obvious. I've never put together anything bigger than a TV entertainment center, and I had no problems with this playset. Yes, it took a long time, but it wasn't difficult at all. Once you figure out how to get the "spiked T-nuts" to work easily, it's a piece of cake. Of course, I have nothing to compare it to, because it's the only set I've ever done.

Also, my yard isn't as flat as a "skating rink", although it's not sloped either. The set is perfectly stable - more so since I added extra wood screws.

To the person asking about the sandbox cover - I made it from 1 x 4 boards by cutting them to size, laying them out next to each other, then attaching them with a few cross boards (one in the middle and one at each end) using 1-1/2" wood screws. Then I put 2x4's all around the inside edges of the sand box to hold up the cover, and attached the cover to the back of the sand box with some hinges I got at Home Depot. At first I used a hook-and-eye to make sure it didn't fall down when lifted, but I just replaced that with a larger eye and a small pad lock so I'm certain it can't fall down on a child.

Here are some pictures of my Cambridge set that I took from my home office window just now as I typed this. Click on the pictures to see them bigger:

QUOTE]


Sir, with all due respect, I don't need to sell the set from Sam's because I carry other product. So the profit margin remark is well, unfounded. We have installed over 400 playsets, hold a NPSI license in Commercial playgrounds and frankly, I came to this thread to give advice. I understand that choosing a backyard playground is a difficult choice for parents, because of safety and budget concerns and am more than willing to use my experience to give OP's. Either take it or leave it, no one is "profiting" from the advice given in this thread.

First- I did point out that I was NOT sure about whether or not they revised the directions. Last year's Cambridge manual was more than 100 pages long, and was a total nightmare to install- and this is the exact sentiment of ALL the professional installers I know. We did not have the luxury of spending 20-40 hours of installation on the set, or taking our time.


At one point during assembly I left my manual outside by accident, and it got wet. I was afraid to turn the pages until it dried out, so I called the manufacturer to see if it was available on the web. It is at this site: http://www.leisuretimeproducts.com/manuals.htm Last years model, which is the one I assembled, is 100 steps on 68 pages. For some reason this year's model is 112 steps, also on 68 pages. I guess they split up some of the steps.

I figured on 40 hours for one inexperienced person, or 20 hours for two inexperienced people. I'm sure an experienced installer with professional-quality tools could do it much quicker. Even having someone to grab boards, hardware, tools, and put the washers on the bolts would have saved hours of time since I wouldn't have had to climb up and down the ladder. Another thing that slowed me down was that the battery in my drill/driver kept needing to be recharged. Very frustrating - I should have purchased another battery.


Can I ask you how stable you think it would be without those extra screws? I do seem to remember you writing it wasn't perfectly stable without them.


There was some wobble to the thing if I climbed up to the top and shook, but it wasn't anything major. It didn't feel unsafe. In any case, it only took a few minutes and a dollar or so to walk around and drive some extra wood screws into it. And I don't see how it could possibly fall over, even without the six supplied ground anchors.

Since you haven't installed any other swingsets, and you don't have the experience to compare your installation to any others, you wouldn't be able to state with certainty that the installation was "easy".

That's a fair statement, but I know the installation wasn't "hard" in and of itself. It's just time consuming. I'm sure the others are easier, since they seem less complex, but it's the complexity of the set that I like.

Is the Cambridge/Woodridge the "best" wooden swing set in the world? I'm sure it's not, but for the price, I think I got a lot for my money. I'm certainly not an unhappy customer, and it did bug me to see people saying negative things about a product I was so satisfied with. Just my opinion.

One thing is for sure, there seems to be a lot of interest in this topic, and it should have its own forum. One of you professional installers should start one. I'm sure it would create a lot of new interest in the industry.

I am glad you had 20 to 40 hours to devote building the set. For me, I would rather pay someone $250 and spend my 20 to 40 hours interacting with my two young children.

I'm not sure where you live, but here in Fairfield County, Connecticut, where I watch all of my neighbors walk to the train station each morning, Wall Street Journals under their arms, for their commute into Manhattan, it would have cost at least six to eight times that amount to have this set professionally installed - Maybe even more. Even if two professionals could do it in 12 hours, at $250 their wage would only be about $10/hour. Around here, you can't get someone to flip burgers for that amount.

shift-

I think you are getting the wrong impression with regard to Mrs. Trish's posts and mine. You are correct, and my mistake- there are 100 steps, not pages. However, as you mentioned- I do not consider the installation easy, by any means; maybe this is due to the fact that you had the luxury of taking your time- I honestly don't know. For the average homeowner though, that has never installed a swingset- the Cambridge/Woodridge are at the top of the list with degree of difficulty, compared to other comparably priced boxed swingset do-it-yourself kits. I happen to like the set, as I have said- and generally the installation pricing focuses on the time involved, and the degree of difficulty.
You are slighly incorrect in stating above that it would have cost dealanator 6-8 times the $250. they mentioned- that would be $1500. or $2000., if my math is correct.
Here are direct quotes from an installer I know, off his website- notice the first quote, which is for the Cambridge/Woodridge:

Sam’s Club:
Cambridge/Woodbridge…………….…….….$750
Pathfinder Deluxe…………………….….…...$650
Play-a-Round Frontier Fort...........................$650
Play-a-Round Trading Post..........................$550
Play-a-Round Lookout..................................$400

You are slighly incorrect in stating above that it would have cost dealanator 6-8 times the $250. they mentioned- that would be $1500. or $2000., if my math is correct.
Here are direct quotes from an installer I know, off his website- notice the first quote, which is for the Cambridge/Woodridge:

Sam’s Club:
Cambridge/Woodbridge…………….…….….$750


The quotes I got were higher than that. I think I know the installer you're referring to, and he's located in southern New Jersey, which is a 2-1/2 hour drive from here. I would be very surprised if the $750 price was valid in my area, despite what his website says. In any case, it's still a lot higher than the $250 price someone else was talking about.

The quotes I got were higher than that. I think I know the installer you're referring to, and he's located in southern New Jersey, which is a 2-1/2 hour drive from here. I would be very surprised if the $750 price was valid in my area, despite what his website says. In any case, it's still a lot higher than the $250 price someone else was talking about.

I would lose money, if we installed the Cambridge for $250.00. Its a two-day, two men job. If there is an installer out there doing the Cambridge for that little amount of money, I would run away due to the fact that more than likely, they don't have insurance.

The quotes I got were higher than that. I think I know the installer you're referring to, and he's located in southern New Jersey, which is a 2-1/2 hour drive from here. I would be very surprised if the $750 price was valid in my area, despite what his website says. In any case, it's still a lot higher than the $250 price someone else was talking about.

Since you seem to be questioning the veracity of the "someone else" who paid $250 to have the playset picked up at TRU and delivered and assembled, a response is evidently necessary. I am the "someone else" and here is the website for the company I used - http://www.someassemblyrequired-ok.com/prices.htm. If you were really quoted $1500 to $2000 for assembly of the Cambridge, prove it by posting the quote or providing a link to their company website. I find it extremely unlikely that your numbers are accurate - don't care where you live. But prove me wrong. If you truly were quoted $1500 to $2000, I would have put it together myself as well or found a company that would have done it a lot cheaper. Like I said it was a slick deal to get it picked up, delivered, and assembled correctly (including leveling) for $250. I'm sorry you have such a hard time beliving it, but it is the truth. Maybe you should considering moving somewhere less expensive.

Since you seem to be questioning the veracity of the "someone else" who paid $250 to have the playset picked up at TRU and delivered and assembled, a response is evidently necessary. I am the "someone else" and here is the website for the company I used - http://www.someassemblyrequired-ok.com/prices.htm. If you were really quoted $1500 to $2000 for assembly of the Cambridge, prove it by posting the quote or providing a link to their company website. I find it extremely unlikely that your numbers are accurate - don't care where you live. But prove me wrong. If you truly were quoted $1500 to $2000, I would have put it together myself as well or found a company that would have done it a lot cheaper. Like I said it was a slick deal to get it picked up, delivered, and assembled correctly (including leveling) for $250. I'm sorry you have such a hard time beliving it, but it is the truth. Maybe you should considering moving somewhere less expensive.

Sir, I don't doubt he was quoted that for the Cambride. The play set sucks to put up. Its If he was quoted that for a TRU set, then someone is charging way to much. When someone is paying for install of a playset they are paying for time. How many hours does it take? For us, TRU sets take half-day to assemble vs. the Cambridge two full days. I looked at the guys website, and if he has insurance, then he is cheap... and I am not too far off from Okla. Another thing that the through up warning signs, he doesn't have pictures of actual swingsets installs on his website. The one I found is a stock photo of the Pathfinder, made by Leisure Time Products, two years ago.

Sir, I don't doubt he was quoted that for the Cambride. The play set sucks to put up. Its If he was quoted that for a TRU set, then someone is charging way to much. When someone is paying for install of a playset they are paying for time. How many hours does it take? For us, TRU sets take half-day to assemble vs. the Cambridge two full days. I looked at the guys website, and if he has insurance, then he is cheap... and I am not too far off from Okla. Another thing that the through up warning signs, he doesn't have pictures of actual swingsets installs on his website. The one I found is a stock photo of the Pathfinder, made by Leisure Time Products, two years ago.

The installer thought it was only going to take 5 hours but it actually took 2 men 11 hours to put up the Windsor from TRU. His install prices are based on the cost of the playset. Anything over $1000 he charges $250 no matter how long it takes. As an installer Mrs. Trish, I have no problem with you charging whatever you feel is appropriate. If people think your price is fair and you do a good job, then that is fine. I am very happy to live in Oklahoma (where everyone does not go to work with the Wallstreet Journal shoved under their arm) and I am very satisfied with the job the installer did for me. He even cleaned up and hauled off the boxes! I have no personal knowledge of the Cambridge.

Since you seem to be questioning the veracity of the "someone else" who paid $250 to have the playset picked up at TRU and delivered and assembled, a response is evidently necessary. I am the "someone else" and here is the website for the company I used - http://www.someassemblyrequired-ok.com/prices.htm. If you were really quoted $1500 to $2000 for assembly of the Cambridge, prove it by posting the quote or providing a link to their company website. I find it extremely unlikely that your numbers are accurate - don't care where you live. But prove me wrong. If you truly were quoted $1500 to $2000, I would have put it together myself as well or found a company that would have done it a lot cheaper. Like I said it was a slick deal to get it picked up, delivered, and assembled correctly (including leveling) for $250. I'm sorry you have such a hard time beliving it, but it is the truth. Maybe you should considering moving somewhere less expensive.

I'm sorry, I think you misunderstood what I was saying - I have no doubt someone had the set installed for $250. I'm just saying there's no possible way that could be done around here. I had two telephone quotes in September of last year, and to be honest, I don't remember exactly what they were, but I know they were over $1250 since that was my cutoff point for installing it myself. I remember asking one of them if he could do it for $1250 and he said, "Sorry, I just can't, but I will match the price you're quoted by anyone else in the area."

I'm sure you understand that the cost of living is much higher certain area of the country. Labor rates are much higher around these parts. It sucks, but that's the way it is around here. A quick Google turned up a short NY Times article that outlines the economic problem around here:

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F01E2DC1E30F932A35757C0A9619C8B 63

It affects everyone from doctors to swingset installers. They have to make more money to compensate for the higher cost of living. You wouldn't believe the housing and rental prices around here.

With regard to moving somewhere less expensive - Thanks for the advice - Yes, I have been considering that for years and plan to do it some day, but right now I can't move due to reasons that are beyond the scope of this thread. Truth is, I could have easily paid the $1500 or whatever to have it professionally installed, but I decided to take on the challenge myself to see if I could do it. It worked out great for me, as it did for you having someone else install it. So we both won in the end, and I believe we are both happy with the Cambridge and the deal we got.

I just found this discussion thread last night, and now I'm considering returning a Woodbridge set to Sam's that I purchased just the other day. I've been looking at playsets for about a month, and settled on the Woodbridge, due in part to the fact that it has a tunnel and sandbox which my son wants. I also liked the larger and more fully enclosed fort. I'm not too concerned about install time. The laminated vertical posts don't bother me that much either. Box 1 is open, and they appear to be constructed of a central square core with 4 additional pieces laminated to it, all regular wood. If the glue job is good, the posts should be fairly strong since the grain is aligned in different directions. The display model at Sam's also seems fairly rigid. The thing that does bother me, and the likely reason I may return it, are the 3x3 swing beams/tunnel supports. Being about 2.5 inches shy in height compared to the typical 4x6 swingbeam, I'm concerned I won't be able to get on the swing when my son asks me to swing with him. I tried hanging from the tunnel on the one at Sam's (swings not installed), and it did give and groan some. Given playsets may only be official to 150 lbs, a 4x6 swing beam and 250 lb capacity swings opens it up for larger or older (me) kids to play on it. Have any of the other olders (adult) kids tried out the swings on the Cambridge/Woodbridge, or do the professionals have any comments?

I've also looked at the Sunray, but I think the Costco a couple hours from me has the model from last year. The model number they stock is different from the 2008 one online, and I like the 2008 one. My other thought is to buy a hardware kit, and build it myself, modifying slightly to give a better fort, possibly a tunnel too. The down side is having to go with treated wood instead of nicer wood due to cost buying it myself instead of getting the better wood in the complete kits.

I just found this discussion thread last night, and now I'm considering returning a Woodbridge set to Sam's that I purchased just the other day. I've been looking at playsets for about a month, and settled on the Woodbridge, due in part to the fact that it has a tunnel and sandbox which my son wants. I also liked the larger and more fully enclosed fort. I'm not too concerned about install time. The laminated vertical posts don't bother me that much either. Box 1 is open, and they appear to be constructed of a central square core with 4 additional pieces laminated to it, all regular wood. If the glue job is good, the posts should be fairly strong since the grain is aligned in different directions. The display model at Sam's also seems fairly rigid. The thing that does bother me, and the likely reason I may return it, are the 3x3 swing beams/tunnel supports. Being about 2.5 inches shy in height compared to the typical 4x6 swingbeam, I'm concerned I won't be able to get on the swing when my son asks me to swing with him. I tried hanging from the tunnel on the one at Sam's (swings not installed), and it did give and groan some. Given playsets may only be official to 150 lbs, a 4x6 swing beam and 250 lb capacity swings opens it up for larger or older (me) kids to play on it. Have any of the other olders (adult) kids tried out the swings on the Cambridge/Woodbridge, or do the professionals have any comments?

I've also looked at the Sunray, but I think the Costco a couple hours from me has the model from last year. The model number they stock is different from the 2008 one online, and I like the 2008 one. My other thought is to buy a hardware kit, and build it myself, modifying slightly to give a better fort, possibly a tunnel too. The down side is having to go with treated wood instead of nicer wood due to cost buying it myself instead of getting the better wood in the complete kits.

As far as I know the company that makes the Cambridge is the only company that does NOT use a single beam for your support posts in the set. Again, there is so much out on the market that does not use shaved down wood, that doesn't cut corners, and will last so much longer than the Cambridge/Woodbridge...

Have any of the other olders (adult) kids tried out the swings on the Cambridge/Woodbridge, or do the professionals have any comments?

If you look closely at the first picture I posted above, you can see that I installed a glider in place of the monkey bars between the swings. I've gone on that with my son. I did hear the wood groan a little as the glider changed direction, but it felt solid and I wasn't at all afraid it was going to break. If you think about it, a solid piece of wood that size should be able to hold quite a bit of weight. I think they can get away with using a smaller diameter piece, since there are two of them, as opposed to one larger piece that some other sets might have. Even though two swings are attached to one beam, I don't think it's a problem.

I have found this thread fascinating, all 13 pages of it. I can vouch for the quality of Playnation. We have a pressure treated Royal Crusoe Clubhouse that we bought used that is three years old. Some of the wood has some cracking and twisting, but overall it is as solid as a rock. ,

NERVOUS! We just ordered from sams.com and 1st shipment was too damaged to accept. Leisure Time called the next day and has resent, we will have it within the next two days. I am almost hoping it is damaged! I really like this set, but now I am so nervous from some of the reviews. Our oldest boy is 8 and I picked this set as it had more features that an 8 year old could like over the Costco set. The Costco set was cute, and obviously so well built, but just wasn't the right size for my oldest.

If we do build, I'm a photographer, so I promise lots of photos!

NERVOUS! We just ordered from sams.com and 1st shipment was too damaged to accept. Leisure Time called the next day and has resent, we will have it within the next two days. I am almost hoping it is damaged! I really like this set, but now I am so nervous from some of the reviews. Our oldest boy is 8 and I picked this set as it had more features that an 8 year old could like over the Costco set. The Costco set was cute, and obviously so well built, but just wasn't the right size for my oldest.

If we do build, I'm a photographer, so I promise lots of photos!

Good thoughts and hopes that your shots don't look like this.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/100_3883.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/100_3881.jpg

well, since I live in california and not tornado country, probably not. My best friend had a Rainbow blow over in a windstorm in Billings MT, so it can happen to the best of them.

well, since I live in california and not tornado country, probably not. My best friend had a Rainbow blow over in a windstorm in Billings MT, so it can happen to the best of them.

That wasn't a tornado. We haven't had any lately, and it falling was recent.

That wasn't a tornado. We haven't had any lately, and it falling was recent.

so I'll bite, how did it get in that condition?

Actually, if you look a little closer at that photobucket account that you got the image from it clearly states "Tornado"

http://s26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/

Actually, if you look a little closer at that photobucket account that you got the image from it clearly states "Tornado"

http://s26.photobucket.com/albums/c134/mrsdeedum/


Thats my photobucket account :) Um ya, the pics under tornado are of a Playnation Ranger that was hit on Jan 7th. The Sam's club kit was knocked over in the past week or so, I drive by it everyday. We haven't had a tornado in the past week, just some winds at 35mph or so...

so I'll bite, how did it get in that condition?


I don't know. Moderate winds with a top-heavy set would be my educated guess.

well, since I live in california and not tornado country, probably not. My best friend had a Rainbow blow over in a windstorm in Billings MT, so it can happen to the best of them.

as long as it does not collapse from an earthquake or burn down from a forest wildfire:eek:

I have found this thread fascinating, all 13 pages of it. I can vouch for the quality of Playnation. We have a pressure treated Royal Crusoe Clubhouse that we bought used that is three years old. Some of the wood has some cracking and twisting, but overall it is as solid as a rock. It was a simple matter to replace a few of the boards. From what I can tell from talking with the original owner, the wood was not re-sealed or stained but it was pressure washed once or twice during the time they owned it. We replaced some of the hardware that came loose during the move. We paid significantly more than 250 to move and install it, so 250 is a great deal. Trust me, I looked high and low for an installer -- but that's a whole other thread.

, I did find one website http://www.outdoorfunstore.com that sells swingsets that appear to be Playnations at steeply discounted prices. But they use different names and will ship all over the country. Are playset prices sort of like car prices, where they have an inflated MSRP so that they can give a big discount? Are the prices at Outdoor Fun in line with the "real" Playnation prices, or are they going lower because of the different names? you can see the identical swingsets at http://www.playnation.com

That person is not selling Playnation units. While they appear to be Playnation units, they are not.

Hi,
I too have been reading these posts with great interest. I am hoping to purchase a swingset soon for my girls, ages 4, 7, and 9. I was intersted in the TRU Cambridge model, but nixed that after calls to multiple assemblers resulted in quotes of $750. (That's what they charge here in northern NJ). Neither my husband or I can assemle a set on our own. I looked at the playnation Ranger and creative playthings Lexington, both of which were on sale until today on their websites, but neither looked interesting. I am trying to keep costs at 2,000 or below, and was hoping to find some features that would challenge my 9 year old as well. Do you think the Costco Model would interest older kids? can it hold the weight of older kids?

Does anyone have anything good or bad to say about the Yardline freedom fortress play system that is on sale now for $200 off on the costco website? It is $1199 including shipping and handling. Thanks.

That person is not selling Playnation units. While they appear to be Playnation units, they are not.
Mrs Trish, are they exactly like Playnation, made by Playnation, etc, but just not carrying the Playnation tag? Even the descriptions are the same, and that company used to carry Playnation in the past.

I have seen Playnation online for sale at forty percent discounts from MSRP, is that typical or just a short sale (I have not been able to find it again).

QUESTION: My sister is considering purchasing the Aspen Lodge from TRU. Here's the link. How does this compare to the other sets? It http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2983815

Mrs Trish, are they exactly like Playnation, made by Playnation, etc, but just not carrying the Playnation tag? Even the descriptions are the same, and that company used to carry Playnation in the past.

I have seen Playnation online for sale at forty percent discounts from MSRP, is that typical or just a short sale (I have not been able to find it again).

QUESTION: My sister is considering purchasing the Aspen Lodge from TRU. Here's the link. How does this compare to the other sets? It looks flimsy to me: http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2983815

They are not Playnation, not made by Playnation. The company "used" to carry Playnation but does not anymore, but sells what appears to be Playnation. When you buy one of those sets you are not getting the Playnation lifetime warranty, nor are the sets pre-manufactored at the factory, which means the wood has not be machine dried-or stained. Also, Playnation sets are "pre-fab" from the factory, meaning wall boards, floor boards roofs etc come pre-assembled by machine. That is not what this person is selling, therefore while he might have the same design, he cannot have the same quality. When Playnation runs a 40% off sale, dealers are getting a discount from Playnation and we are not given "notice" of this.


When it comes to TRU sets, you get what you pay for. They are decent sets, but have low weight limits.

We drove down to a Costco this past weekend and looked at the Sunray, but it didn't thrill us that much. The deck boards were just as thin as those on the Woodbridge at Sam's, and I'm guessing they will flex as much with a bit of weight. I figure that if I keep the Woodbridge, I will add some additional support. If I don't keep it, I'm leaning towards a DIY from Detailed Play Systems. They sell a tube tunnel accessory, which my son likes about the Woodbridge.

Regarding the TRU playsets people have mentioned, I also considered the Windsor by Adventure Playsets, but I didn't like the use of little angle brackets to attach the posts to the upper level deck. The upper/lower level posts were tied together better on the Woodbridge. I saw the main posts extend from the ground through most of the second level on the Sunray, which is the best way to do it.

The sets I really like based on their online catalog are those from Backyard Adventures, which I believe is the parent company of both Leisure Time Products (Woodbridge/Cambridge) and Adventure Playsets (some TRU models). However, they are way past my price limit. They are sold locally through a greenhouse, and I want to go by to see the demo units for ideas if I go DIY.

Unfortunately, no matter what I finally decide to go with, the overall cost increased unexpectedly on us. After bringing the Woodbridge home, we put the boxes in the garage, and the van outside until I could unpack or possibly return it. Well, after sitting outside only a few days, we found after checking the source of warning lights suddenly coming on in the dash that a mother squirrel and babies moved into the engine compartment. The wiring harness was evidently in the way of the new nest. You can figure out the rest from there.

Does anyone have anything good or bad to say about the Yardline freedom fortress play system that is on sale now for $200 off on the costco website? It is $1199 including shipping and handling. Thanks.

Read the post above mine too... I also went to my local costco to see the big structure they're carrying in the store. I was VERY disappointed. Simply did not feel sturdy or durable. I'm passing on the Costco structures...and am placing my order today for a Kids Creation set.

texazz-

Are you referring to the Yardline, or the Sunray?
The Yardline as far as I know is not on display at any Costco stores in my area (Northeast). Also- you said you weren't impressed with how the structure "felt". Since the Sunrays are generally installed in the stores up on platforms, so kids cannot play on them- how can you state with certainty that it didn't feel sturdy or durable? I can tell you firsthand- after installing 6 Sunrays this year so far- it is sturdy, and durable.

It was the Sunray that was in the store. Boards seemed thin to me. As for the sturdiness, it could have something to do with who assembled it and how...who knows. That said, just from the looks of it I was not overly impressed with it. Physically it looks nice and I'm sure kids would love it... I just wouldnt trust it with a lot of kids on it, nor would I trust it to last over the years.

Edit...yes, it was on a platform, but only ~4 feet off the ground. Close enough for me to shake it, feel it, etc. I was disappointed with it...thus, my alternative purchase.

Trish (or others)...is there a good place to buy colored shredded rubber for the landing zones? I figure this would blend better than bark and be more durable and lasting...but no clue where to get it.

Trish (or others)...is there a good place to buy colored shredded rubber for the landing zones? I figure this would blend better than bark and be more durable and lasting...but no clue where to get it.

I will PM you.

Understandable.
I think for $1399. though, still a very good deal; with regard to the kids- rated for 3-11; unlike the larger more expensive sets that can handle an army of kids at once, the Sunray wasn't designed with that in mind.

Understandable.
I think for $1399. though, still a very good deal; with regard to the kids- rated for 3-11; unlike the larger more expensive sets that can handle an army of kids at once, the Sunray wasn't designed with that in mind.

No question on that. The set LOOKS great...and the price is fanstastic. You just know going in that its not for a mob to be on at one time, nor will it last forever. But...you save a lot of money.

Our kids are just getting started, so I wanted something that would be around for a very long time, and hold a LOT of kids/adults at one time.



Trish...I'll finally stop bugging you about these play sets. I placed my order at Kids Creations earlier today. Now is the hardest part...waiting for it to show up.

No question on that. The set LOOKS great...and the price is fanstastic. You just know going in that its not for a mob to be on at one time, nor will it last forever. But...you save a lot of money.

Our kids are just getting started, so I wanted something that would be around for a very long time, and hold a LOT of kids/adults at one time.



Trish...I'll finally stop bugging you about these play sets. I placed my order at Kids Creations earlier today. Now is the hardest part...waiting for it to show up.

I don't mind being bugged. The safety of children is my number one priority, at work or just chatting with strangers on the internet.

I don't mind being bugged. The safety of children is my number one priority, at work or just chatting with strangers on the internet.

Thank you again for taking all the time to answer questions, point things out, etc.

where do u find professional installers??.. how do u know they know abt these playsets, if they install them correctly??

where do u find professional installers??.. how do u know they know abt these playsets, if they install them correctly??

Ask where you buy the set, the people there might be able to recommend someone, once found ask about license, insurance, how many installed etc... You can propably get a "feel" if the person knows about swingsets or not.

I'd be happy to recommend an installer for you, even if it's not me; let me know where you are located.

Ask where you buy the set, the people there might be able to recommend someone, once found ask about license, insurance, how many installed etc... You can propably get a "feel" if the person knows about swingsets or not.

we tried sams club, and toysrus ... and both places didnt know anyone who installs these sets...we also tried a couple of playsets companies.. they were way too over priced.... though one of them, had sets starting frm abt 1200 doll, plus installation seperate though.. abt 300 bucks... but the stuffs way better quality than the ones here in toysrus, or samsclub.. still debating.. can anyone help me find an installer..

This thread has confused me more than ever. I'm pretty close to buying the Sunray. In your best professional opinion, how many years do you think I will get out of a Woodridge in a northeast climate?

I, too, am really confused and am trying to decide between 3 sets available around the same price point ...

1. Cambridge at Sam's
2. Sunray at Costco
3. Arcadia (Little Tikes) at Toys R Us

I see LOTS and LOTS and LOTS of opinions here about the first two but I haven't read, heard (and nothing on google either) anything about the Little Tikes Arcadia. The set looks very nice and looks like a fantastic lifetime warranty.

Does anyone have any opinions to offer on the Little Tikes? I'd love any guidance out there because this site has me more confused than ever ... and I just don't have the money to spend on a premium Rainbow/etc set.

Thanks!

Little time consuming unless you have a three day period with Beautiful weather...All parts were there, all pieces numbered(wood stamped) look great and kids love it....Once you start its hard to stop....

It has come down to a choice between the Woodridge at Sam's or the Sunray Premium at Costco.

Any suggestions?

It has come down to a choice between the Woodridge at Sam's or the Sunray Premium at Costco.

Any suggestions?

The Sunray..

Thanks for having this ongoing discussion. It is very helpful.
Is there anyone here who's purchased the trading post by play-a-round and can tell me what they think of it. Is it intended only for younger children only? I noticed its quite a bit shorter than the sunray and cambridge.
I would appreciate any help. I don't have the ability to pm because I just signed up but can provide my email if anyone is willing to give me their opinions.
Thanks!
Sonya.

I don't think this has been addressed in a comprehensive post... but do any of the "box" sets have a weight limit higher than 150 pounds for the swings? My husband and I both exceed that limit, but we want to be able to swing with our son. Is our best bet getting one of the pricier lifetime sets?

I don't think this has been addressed in a comprehensive post... but do any of the "box" sets have a weight limit higher than 150 pounds for the swings? My husband and I both exceed that limit, but we want to be able to swing with our son. Is our best bet getting one of the pricier lifetime sets?

Not that I know of. I know that my husband who is in the 170# range does swing on the Gorilla's but technically he's not supposed to. Gorilla's do have the highest weight limit of all the box kits, as far as I am aware.

Mrs. Trish-
I ran across this information on a Gorilla site, and I'm a bit confused. Here is what I read:

Western Red Cedar and Asian Fir Roofs

Outstanding beauty and naturally durable, Western Red Cedar has one of the longest life pans of any North American softwood. Highly durable and resistant to rot and infestation, Asian Fir is quickly becoming a natural choice for applications where a stable barrier against the elements is needed. Gorilla Playsets is committed to using only the best woods available for its wood roofs. Our tongue and groove roof system features an interlocking design that not only makes installation a breeze, but also assures that your roof maintains a uniform appearance while keeping the elements out. It's these characteristics combined with a factory stain and sealant process that makes Gorilla Playsets wood roofs simply the best looking, most durable wood roofs available.


Asian Fir and China Fir from what I understand are 1 in the same (I just got off the phone with a Gorilla rep). According to you-
Gorilla is a division of Playnation, along with Planet Playgrounds. I sell all three brands. This is a hard question for me, because I do not know if Rainbow has started using Cunninghamia in its playsets that are sold at Costco. Cunninghamia scares me because it is from China, and well we all know how well that is working out. Gorilla uses California Redwood, Cedar, or Georgia Pine for its swingsets.


I'm a little confused- maybe you can clear this up for me. Thanks.

Mrs. Trish-
I ran across this information on a Gorilla site, and I'm a bit confused. Here is what I read:

Western Red Cedar and Asian Fir Roofs

Outstanding beauty and naturally durable, Western Red Cedar has one of the longest life pans of any North American softwood. Highly durable and resistant to rot and infestation, Asian Fir is quickly becoming a natural choice for applications where a stable barrier against the elements is needed. Gorilla Playsets is committed to using only the best woods available for its wood roofs. Our tongue and groove roof system features an interlocking design that not only makes installation a breeze, but also assures that your roof maintains a uniform appearance while keeping the elements out. It's these characteristics combined with a factory stain and sealant process that makes Gorilla Playsets wood roofs simply the best looking, most durable wood roofs available.


Asian Fir and China Fir from what I understand are 1 in the same (I just got off the phone with a Gorilla rep). According to you-



I'm a little confused- maybe you can clear this up for me. Thanks.

They have not notified us of the change, but I am assuming because its for the roofs and not a weight-supporting feature of the playset, that it would be ok. American wood prices are going through the roof right now, due to gas prices and maybe they are using it to keep prices reasonable. Could be alot of things...

Mrs. Trish,
I appreciate your comments on this forum. We are searching for a playset for our daughter. I am about to go crazy trying to find one that is safe and durable. Assuming I can find an installer in my area, I am considering purchasing the Gorilla Blue Ridge Chateau or the Sunray. Any thoughts on either of these would be very much appreciated. I can't seem to find anyone in my area who really knows this stuff. I am most concerned about the wood that is used and the types of bolts and fasteners.
Anne

Mrs. Trish,
I appreciate your comments on this forum. We are searching for a playset for our daughter. I am about to go crazy trying to find one that is safe and durable. Assuming I can find an installer in my area, I am considering purchasing the Gorilla Blue Ridge Chateau or the Sunray. Any thoughts on either of these would be very much appreciated. I can't seem to find anyone in my area who really knows this stuff. I am most concerned about the wood that is used and the types of bolts and fasteners.
Anne

Let me first say, the chateau is my favorite gorilla so I might be a little biased.

MCQ southern yellow pine treated wood, with steal bolts and fasteners so you won't have to worry about them rotting. Easy to put up, according to DH but he has put up quite a few of them. Somewhat self-leveling bracketing system on the swingarm, basically it allows for small slope between fort and end of swing arm.

We haven't put up a sunray this year, so I don't feel comfortable giving a recommondation on it, but the last couple years have been good product.

Let me first say, the chateau is my favorite gorilla so I might be a little biased.

MCQ southern yellow pine treated wood, with steal bolts and fasteners so you won't have to worry about them rotting. Easy to put up, according to DH but he has put up quite a few of them. Somewhat self-leveling bracketing system on the swingarm, basically it allows for small slope between fort and end of swing arm.

We haven't put up a sunray this year, so I don't feel comfortable giving a recommondation on it, but the last couple years have been good product.


Thank you so much. Wish you were in Mississippi - I'd definately come see you to purchase a swingset!

I've installed 9 Sunrays this year to date.
Very happy with the quality of the set, as I have been since 2004 when Costco started selling them.

I've installed 9 Sunrays this year to date.
Very happy with the quality of the set, as I have been since 2004 when Costco started selling them.

Thanks! What do you think the age range is for this set? My daughter is almost 6. I hope that I am not investing in something that she won't use for about 3 years. Also, is the Sunray difficult to install? We will have to hire someone to install as my husband is not a "handyman!"

A 6 year old will love the Sunray. That's really a target age for this set; I've found most children in the age range of 4-8/9ish really love it.
As for the difficulty of installation- I'll say this. I've installed over 250 Sunrays now, since 2004- and this set is by far the most difficult to install of all the Sunray models. One of the things that makes it difficult to install properly is the fact that now the entire clubhouse in enclosed. Here's an analogy I wrote on another forum: picture an empty shoe box, the type you'd make a diorama with. Now line the entire inside of this box with ice-cream sticks, side by side, so there's no room between the sticks. This represents the clubhouse of the 2008 Sunray. When the shoe box is sitting on flat, level ground, all the sticks will be completely vertical, and line up nicely.
Now, take that same shoe box, and push any side slightly in ANY direction. What happens is that the sticks have no room to move, and no place to go. This is basically what happens when you attempt to install a 2008 Sunray on ground that is even a little off (and trust me, I have had this happen already 3 times). With no place for these "sticks" to go (the ice cream sticks represent the clubhouse boards), everything will not fit properly- and unlike the 2007 Sunray, which had spacing between the entrapment boards- there is NO spacing between the clubhouse boards on the 2008.
I'll reiterate- when the ground beneath the clubhouse is level, the 2008 goes together quite nicely (though it is a time-consuming swingset: lots of wood screws on all the boards/roof panels/rockwall boards/picnic table, etc.)- when it's not level- good luck.

A 6 year old will love the Sunray. That's really a target age for this set; I've found most children in the age range of 4-8/9ish really love it.
As for the difficulty of installation- I'll say this. I've installed over 250 Sunrays now, since 2004- and this set is by far the most difficult to install of all the Sunray models. One of the things that makes it difficult to install properly is the fact that now the entire clubhouse in enclosed. Here's an analogy I wrote on another forum: picture an empty shoe box, the type you'd make a diorama with. Now line the entire inside of this box with ice-cream sticks, side by side, so there's no room between the sticks. This represents the clubhouse of the 2008 Sunray. When the shoe box is sitting on flat, level ground, all the sticks will be completely vertical, and line up nicely.
Now, take that same shoe box, and push any side slightly in ANY direction. What happens is that the sticks have no room to move, and no place to go. This is basically what happens when you attempt to install a 2008 Sunray on ground that is even a little off (and trust me, I have had this happen already 3 times). With no place for these "sticks" to go (the ice cream sticks represent the clubhouse boards), everything will not fit properly- and unlike the 2007 Sunray, which had spacing between the entrapment boards- there is NO spacing between the clubhouse boards on the 2008.
I'll reiterate- when the ground beneath the clubhouse is level, the 2008 goes together quite nicely (though it is a time-consuming swingset: lots of wood screws on all the boards/roof panels/rockwall boards/picnic table, etc.)- when it's not level- good luck.

Wow - thanks for all of that info. I like the looks of the Sunray (at least in the online picture), but I am concerned that it might not be the one for us because our yard is not entirely flat. We have a fairly decent size level spot, but overall our yard is quite hilly. As I reported in another post, the other set that I am looking at is the Gorilla Blue Ridge Chateau; however, I just found out that it is made with Asian Fir and I am not entirely comfortable with that. There is a company here that will build a very basic set from treated pine - not a "pretty" set by any means, but that might be the way to go. Any thoughts?

Wow - thanks for all of that info. I like the looks of the Sunray (at least in the online picture), but I am concerned that it might not be the one for us because our yard is not entirely flat. We have a fairly decent size level spot, but overall our yard is quite hilly. As I reported in another post, the other set that I am looking at is the Gorilla Blue Ridge Chateau; however, I just found out that it is made with Asian Fir and I am not entirely comfortable with that. There is a company here that will build a very basic set from treated pine - not a "pretty" set by any means, but that might be the way to go. Any thoughts?

The Blue Ridge Chateau is not made out of "Asian fir"

The Blue Ridge Chateau is not made out of "Asian fir"


I spoke with a Gorilla representative today. He told me that this set was made with Asian Fir. I also emailed the company and got the same response. It's all very confusing!

I would clarify with them whether or not the entire set is made using China Fir, or just parts of it- like the roof panels. According to the site though, that model is not made using China Fir (I don't know enough about the Gorilla product to state this with certainty).

A 6 year old will love the Sunray. That's really a target age for this set; I've found most children in the age range of 4-8/9ish really love it.
As for the difficulty of installation- I'll say this. I've installed over 250 Sunrays now, since 2004- and this set is by far the most difficult to install of all the Sunray models. One of the things that makes it difficult to install properly is the fact that now the entire clubhouse in enclosed. Here's an analogy I wrote on another forum: picture an empty shoe box, the type you'd make a diorama with. Now line the entire inside of this box with ice-cream sticks, side by side, so there's no room between the sticks. This represents the clubhouse of the 2008 Sunray. When the shoe box is sitting on flat, level ground, all the sticks will be completely vertical, and line up nicely.
Now, take that same shoe box, and push any side slightly in ANY direction. What happens is that the sticks have no room to move, and no place to go. This is basically what happens when you attempt to install a 2008 Sunray on ground that is even a little off (and trust me, I have had this happen already 3 times). With no place for these "sticks" to go (the ice cream sticks represent the clubhouse boards), everything will not fit properly- and unlike the 2007 Sunray, which had spacing between the entrapment boards- there is NO spacing between the clubhouse boards on the 2008.
I'll reiterate- when the ground beneath the clubhouse is level, the 2008 goes together quite nicely (though it is a time-consuming swingset: lots of wood screws on all the boards/roof panels/rockwall boards/picnic table, etc.)- when it's not level- good luck.

May I know where you live?. I live in Cheter county, PA. I and my friend bought this 2008 sunray playset, y'day at costco and we would like to get it installed. if you or if you know any one who lives in this area and can install this please let me know.

I'm on Long Island. I make a limited number of trips outside my general area; I do know people in your area that can install your swingset if you give me your zip code-

I'm on Long Island. I make a limited number of trips outside my general area; I do know people in your area that can install your swingset if you give me your zip code-

zip - 19335.
Check your PM.

We just bought a house and we were in Costco yesterday, staring at the 2008 set for about 15 mintues, wanting to get it for our 2 boys, but knowing full well that it will be just short of torture setting the beast up. The price is attractive but I have a couple questions for the pro's in this thread:

1) Quality wise, does it hold up to the Rainbows or the Back Yard Escape lines?
2) Realistically, how long with this thing take to put together as a husband and wife team?
3) Does it pass the "shake" test that Rainbow recommends (is it solid)?
4) Why does it cost so much less than the $4K counterpart sold by Rainbow?

Thanks!

We just bought a house and we were in Costco yesterday, staring at the 2008 set for about 15 mintues, wanting to get it for our 2 boys, but knowing full well that it will be just short of torture setting the beast up. The price is attractive but I have a couple questions for the pro's in this thread:

1) Quality wise, does it hold up to the Rainbows or the Back Yard Escape lines?
2) Realistically, how long with this thing take to put together as a husband and wife team?
3) Does it pass the "shake" test that Rainbow recommends (is it solid)?
4) Why does it cost so much less than the $4K counterpart sold by Rainbow?

Thanks!

Sunray IS made by Rainbow. I think this answers your question 1 and 3.
As far as installation we are planning to hire handy man..

Sunray IS made by Rainbow. I think this answers your question 1 and 3.
As far as installation we are planning to hire handy man..

How does Rainbow justify charging $3K more than Costco for the same exact swingset. I'm thinking about going down to the Rainbow dealer to see what their excuse is.

Wow, what an informative thread. Thanks for your insight, everyone.

We're putting up a playset for our three girls, age 3 5 and 8. Was planning on going with the one from Sam's but now I'm not so sure about that one. And I'm wondering how the one from Costco will grow with them- my 8 year old is very tall for her age and I wonder if she's already outgrown the Sunray. I wonder about that with the Sam's one as well. :confused:

What makes Rainbow so much better? Is it worth it to spend 1K more on a used rainbow than, say, the Sam's set?

Is the Cambridge Swingset referred to on the original posting the same swingset as the Woodridge at Sam's? I noticed the posting started in 2007 and I can't tell if they updated to a better model but I can't find a Cambridge. This Woodridge appears to get nothing but great reviews. Any thoughts?

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=378422#reviews

Though I am not 100% positive, the Woodridge and the Cambridge share the same lineage- and are very similar.
In the past, I- and other installers I know- have basically raised our fees to install the Cambridge to a very high level; the Cambridge was, and in all likelihood still is, difficult to assemble.
I had read a post on another site that I frequent- that the Cambridge was "relatively easy" to install. It's not.

The Cambridge and Woodridge are great swingsets! However, you have to be willing to put in the time for assembly. It took my wife and I about 20 hours to put it together. The 2008 models are much easier and more efficient to put together. For the money, this swingset is a no brainer. You could buy at least 3 or 4 of these swingsets for the price of a comparable Rainbow. Beware of the "professionals" on this site who try to steer you away- They are just like any other salesman who twists the truth to sell their product. Pretty soon they get so desensitized to what they are saying that they begin to believe themselves. The truth is, your 3 year old will get tired of the swing set by the time she is 9 or 10. After that, who cares if your swingset has a "lifetime warranty"?! You are getting rid of it anyway. I am positive that the Cambridge or Woodrige will last you at least 7 years ( the life of your child's interest) with proper care. We have had ours for 3 months now and we are extremely pleased with it. In fact, my SEVEN children are playing on it right now. It is still as sturdy as a rock, and we still have several thousand dollars extra in our bank account. Think about it: 20 hours of work or $3000. You decide.

I am in no way trying to steer anyone away from purchasing the Cambridge/Woodridge.
I do not sell swingsets, nor am I affiliated in any way with any company that does. I have installed Sunrays and the Cambridge, and just offering my opinion on what the installation of the Cambridge/Woodridge entailed. It wasn't easy, and I found that not everything lined up properly (and I know what I am doing when it comes to installing swingsets).
:)