I would like to buy a small inexpensive playscape for our yard. I haven't found anything on Craigslist. Has anyone bought one from Academy or other retail store? If so, was it easy to put together? Has it been sturdy and easy to upkeep?
We bought a cheap nice looking wooden one from walmart and it lasted a little over a year. I dont recommend it!
We bought one at Sam's several years ago. I think it was around $600 and my husband and I put it together ourselves in an afternoon. It held up very well. We had it at the house we were living for about 8 years, and it was still functional when we moved. I heard recently that the new owners are planning to give it to one of their relatives, so it must still be in decent shape. Just check out Sam's and Costco and see what they have.
I have a friend that I was going to get hers but it's going to be a real hassle for me since I don't have the man power to get it. She wants $200 for it and it has a spiral slide. She's in Pearland. If you want the info, just let me know. Also, I have a simple one that I'm ready to get rid of. It needs a little TLC (sanding/paint), but my kids have out grown it. It has two swings, a rocket rider, sllide & a rope ladder and a tarp cover (green & yellow). If you'd come and get it, I'd take $75 for it. It's not concreted in like my friends, so it should be easy to transport. I'm also in Pearland.
S.
If you are close to San Antonio check out "Jeff's Backyard" they sell all sorts of playscapes. ###-###-#### I really don't know the cost our kiddos are still too young. I'm sure we will use them when the time comes though.
Got ours at Toy's R Us.
I had a 20% off coupon. I waited for a freat sale on it AND I applied for the credit card and got another 15% off. Got a $600 set for $300!
The wood is not as thick as the Rainbow systems but those cost a small fortune. This is my second Toys R Us one (due to a move, not b/c it didn't last). Had this current one for 3 years and its doing OK.
Problem is, Toys R Us does NOT set them up or provide a service that does.
What I would do to help is to SEAL THE WOOD. The heat really does a number on it in the sun. I think it will last longer.
I read the reviews about assembly and many people were frustrated b/c they had husbands/relatives that are very handy and it takes a long time. My husband and his friend (who is a contractor) worked on it for 10 hours straight!
I heard you can find people to assemble it in the yellow pages.
Lastly, for your older child, I recommend getting something with a little fort to sit in. I have a 9 year old and she still uses that all the time, either alone or with her friends as she has outgrown the slide, etc.
You might try the Just Between Friends Consignment Sale. You can check the Just Between Friends website for locations. The Houston one started yesterday.
