Wooden Playground Maintenance Guide: Keep Your Equipment Safe and Long-Lasting

Wooden playgrounds are a timeless choice for outdoor play areas, combining natural beauty with functional design. Whether made from premium hardwood or treated softwood, wooden playgrounds require regular maintenance to stay safe, strong, and attractive over time.

At Moetry Play, we manufacture two main types of wooden outdoor playgrounds using Badi wood from Africa and ACQ-treated pine wood from Finland. Both materials are carefully selected for outdoor durability, but like all wood products, they benefit greatly from proper care. (Click here to see the difference between badi wood playground and ACQ-treated pine wood playground and how to select for your playground)

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for maintaining your wooden playground and maximizing its service life.

Service Life Expectations

Under normal usage conditions and with regular maintenance:

• Badi Wood Playground: Service life of over 10 years

• ACQ-Treated Pine Playground: Service life of 7–8 years

These estimates may vary depending on the local climate, intensity of use, and how well the equipment is maintained. Regular inspections and preventive care can significantly extend the longevity of any wooden play structure.

Why Maintenance Matters

Routine maintenance not only keeps your playground looking its best but also ensures:

• Safety: Prevents accidents caused by wear and damage

• Structural Integrity: Protects against rot, warping, and insect damage

• Aesthetics: Preserves the wood’s natural or painted finish

• Cost Savings: Avoids expensive repairs or early replacement

General Maintenance Tips

These tips apply to both Badi wood and ACQ-treated pine playgrounds:

• Clean surfaces regularly with a soft brush and mild soap to remove dirt, dust, and organic buildup.

• Inspect all hardware (bolts, screws, connectors) monthly. Tighten loose parts and replace any rusty or corroded components.

• Remove debris such as leaves or standing water from around the structure to avoid moisture buildup.

• Check for damage including cracks, splinters, or unstable components. Address small issues before they become safety risks.

Specific Care for Each Wood Type

🌳 Badi Wood Playground Maintenance

Badi wood is a naturally durable hardwood, rich in oils that protect it from decay, insects, and moisture—making it relatively low-maintenance.

Recommended Care:

• Oil once per year to maintain color and prevent drying or cracking under strong sunlight.

• Light sanding may be required if surface roughness or minor splinters appear.

• Keep the structure well-ventilated and elevated to avoid prolonged ground contact.

Longevity Tip: Even without chemical treatment, Badi wood can last over a decade with basic care.

🌲 ACQ-Treated Pine Playground Maintenance

Pine is a softwood that’s treated with ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) to improve resistance to rot and pests. While effective, it requires more frequent upkeep than hardwood.

Recommended Care:

• Reapply wood sealant or stain every 1–2 years to maintain protection and appearance.

• Regularly check for surface wear, especially at high-contact areas like steps or platforms.

• Sand rough edges or damaged areas to prevent splinters.

• Ensure proper drainage around the base to prevent moisture accumulation.

Longevity Tip: With regular inspections and surface protection, ACQ-treated pine playgrounds can serve reliably for up to 8 years.

Seasonal and Climate Considerations

• Hot & Dry Climates: Use UV-protective oil to reduce cracking and fading.

• Wet or Humid Areas: Inspect frequently for mold or mildew; ensure airflow and drainage.

• Cold or Snowy Regions: Avoid use during freezing temperatures if possible. After winter, inspect for expansion cracks or frost damage.

Safety Inspection Checklist

Conduct inspections at least once a season, or monthly in busy environments. Check the following:

• Structural stability: Are all components firmly anchored and free from wobbling?

• Surface condition: Any cracks, splinters, or fading?

• Metal hardware: Any rust, sharp edges, or loose bolts?

• Wood rot: Especially at the base or areas exposed to water

• Grounding: Is the safety surfacing in good condition (rubber mats, mulch, grass)?

Support from Moetry Play

We stand behind the quality of our wooden playgrounds and offer:

• 1 year warranty

• Life time support

Our goal is to help you get the most out of your investment—both in safety and in longevity. With the right maintenance approach, your wooden playground can remain a safe, beautiful, and valuable asset for years to come. Whether you choose the long-lasting Badi wood or the economical ACQ-treated pine, regular care is the key to preserving its quality and extending its lifespan.