Fall check and clean
Clean the set, remove leaves and debris, check hardware and look for damage. Fix problems now so they do not get worse over winter.
Re-seal wood if the finish is thin.
Take off what you can
Some families remove swings or seats and store them indoors to protect them from ice and UV. Others take down canopies, trapeze bars and rope features. Store chains clean and dry.
Keep track of hardware.
Protect the structure
Snow load, ice and wind are the main threats. Brush heavy snow off roofs and platforms. Keep branches trimmed so they do not fall on the set.
Check anchors after the ground freezes and thaws.
Surfacing in winter
Frozen mulch is hard, so supervise play and be careful in icy conditions. Drain water away from the area. Do not shovel rubber surfaces with sharp tools.
In many places the set is simply not used in deep winter.
Spring thaw
In spring, re-tighten hardware, top up the surface, wash the structure and put seats back. Look for frost damage and heaved footings.
A spring inspection is a good habit.
Where it snows a lot
Consider removing swings, trapeze bars and rope features and storing them dry. Brush off heavy snow from roofs and platforms and avoid using the set when it is icy.
Check the structure after storms for broken limbs and shifted anchors.
Where winters are mild
You may not need to do much, but a fall cleaning, a fresh coat of sealer and a hardware check are still smart. Wet, cold weather is hard on wood.
Dry wood and tight hardware go into winter better.
Quick answers
Do I need to take the swings down?
It is optional, but removing them can protect them from ice and UV.
Is snow on the set a problem?
Heavy snow can load roofs and platforms. Brush it off when it gets deep.
