Kids need to play outside regularly for their health, physical well-being, and general development. Playing outside requires specific playground equipment.
Choosing the correct playground equipment can help your children become physically fit, improve their social interaction, and develop their skills. When you want to buy commercial playground equipment, you have two options to explore: purchase used or brand new. If you're on a tight budget, buying used is undoubtedly an excellent idea.
But you must know how to buy used equipment if you want to get the most out of your money.
Playground structures are in high demand. But some individuals and organizations cannot afford to buy brand new playground equipment. Fortunately, you can find high-quality used playground equipment at a significantly reduced price with the proper research.
So what do you do to find the best quality used playground equipment quickly and affordably? Although we do not sell used playground equipment, we've put together some helpful tips to consider when purchasing used playground equipment.
Selecting engaging equipment can be a practical way for schools, parks, and communities to address the impacts of excessive screen time among children by promoting active, outdoor play.
Steps to Find a Reputable and Trustworthy Supplier to Buy Used Playground Equipment From
Selecting the best supplier for used playground equipment goes hand in hand with finding the best structures for kids. Several steps can help you find a trustworthy supplier specializing in high-quality and affordable used playground equipment.
Step 1 - Check the Supplier’s Reviews Online
Look for several suppliers of used playground equipment online. Check what others say about their products and services by going through their online reviews.
Step 2 - Check Their Previous History
A supplier who has been doing well will have an excellent track record. You can learn more about any supplier's history and record by inquiring from a few of their past customers.
Step 3 - Check Their Equipment for Quality
Visit several suppliers of the equipment you are seeking. Inspect the structures they have in stock in person. Check whether their pieces of equipment for sale are solid and sturdy. That's especially important since children tend to use playground equipment unpredictably.
Step 4 - Check the Quality of the Material Used to Make the Equipment
The material used to make the playground equipment you opt to purchase must be durable, kid-friendly, non-toxic, and safe. Commercial-grade materials, even when purchased used, tend to hold up better than residential-grade alternatives.
Step 5 - Check Whether the Equipment’s Designs Are Child-Friendly
The playground equipment you buy should be the ones that prioritize kids' safety. The pieces of playground equipment should not have sharp edges that can injure children. Their height should also be kid-friendly.
Step 6 - Seek Professional Advice
If you do not feel confident buying used playground equipment on your own, it would be best to seek professional advice. Take photos of the equipment you opt to purchase and send them to a safety consultant.
You can also look for an expert playground contractor and advisor and ask them to inspect the equipment on your behalf. A professional safety consultant or playground contractor will give an honest opinion of whether buying the used playground equipment you intend to buy is a wise decision.
Many reputable playground equipment suppliers offer professional installation services and can provide guidance even if you're considering used equipment.
Pros of Buying Used Playground Equipment
Used playground equipment is an excellent option, especially for individuals or businesses with a strict budget. Choosing used over new lets you save significant money for other needs.
Buying used playground equipment may help you save a sufficient amount for your project.
High-Quality Equipment
You can spend significantly less money on high-quality playground equipment when considering the used market. It's possible to find the best quality equipment that has been slightly used at a more affordable price when you explore the used marketplace for playground equipment.
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Less Depreciation
Brand new pieces of playground equipment often tend to depreciate much faster than used ones. New equipment depreciates most rapidly in the first few months after purchase. When you purchase used pieces of playground equipment, you get structures that have been through their severe depreciation period.
Several Options to Explore
Many individuals and organizations regularly sell their playground equipment to keep up with the technology advancing day in and day out. They tend to sell their equipment to upgrade. Exploring the used market for playground equipment means you have various choices under your belt.
Cons of Buying Used Playground Equipment
There are several setbacks to choosing used over new when shopping for playground equipment.
Replacement Parts
When you buy used playground equipment, you might require replacing some parts. The equipment's original manufacturer may refuse to sell you the replacement parts during that time.
They may fail to honor the warranty of the pieces because of a change of ownership. This can become particularly problematic if the manufacturer has discontinued the product line or gone out of business entirely.
Safety Concerns
Some older playground equipment might fail to meet current standards since standards keep changing to keep children safe. It's essential to be sure any equipment you opt to buy meets the standards needed before finalizing the purchasing deal.
Guidelines and regulations for playground equipment are updated frequently. Modern playground equipment must comply with strict playground safety standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ASTM International.
When purchasing used equipment, there's an inherent risk that older structures were manufactured before current safety guidelines were established. New commercial playground equipment, like Grand Cove Playground, comes with a manufacturer's warranty and is certified to meet or exceed current ASTM F1487 and CPSC standards.
This provides peace of mind that every component has been tested for safety.
Additionally, from a liability perspective, organizations like schools, daycares, and municipal parks should carefully consider the legal implications of installing equipment that may not meet current safety codes. Insurance providers are increasingly scrutinizing such decisions.
Warranty
With playground equipment, the warranty transfer from one owner to another is unacceptable. When you buy used playground equipment, it can easily get damaged because of previous use.
In that case, you cannot use the warranty from the original owner to get a replacement.
Though buying used has setbacks, the cost savings make it worthwhile on a tight budget.
If you can't stomach the lack of a warranty, you really should check out purchasing new equipment. All of our playground equipment at WillyGoat is backed by a manufacturer's warranty, ensuring your investment is protected.
New vs. Used: Cost Comparison Over 10 Years
While the upfront savings of used playground equipment can be appealing, it's important to consider the total cost of ownership over the equipment's lifespan. Let's break down what you might actually spend over a 10-year period:
Initial Purchase Price:
- Used Equipment: $4,000–$8,000 (auctions or private sales).
- New Commercial-Grade Playground Equipment: $5,000–$50,000 (for large premium models).
Annual Maintenance & Repairs:
- Both New and Used equipment:Expect $20–$35 per cubic yard for engineered wood fiber, and a $75–$120 per cubic yard for rubber mulch replenishment
- Used Playground Equipment: Full repairs average $300–$1,100 per incident.
- New Playground Equipment: Costs $300–$1,100 average ($700 most common) for repairs.
Safety Inspections:
- Used Playground Equipment: $250–$700 per inspection (frequency of 2-3 times per year recommended). More intensive or frequent checks may be needed.
- New Playground Equipment: $250–$700 per inspection (frequency of 1–2 times per year recommended). The cost varies based on size, condition, location, and complexity.
Replacement Parts:
- Used Playground Equipment: $1,000–$2,500 over 10 years (parts often discontinued, custom fabrication or original manufacturer sourcing needed).
- New Playground Equipment: $500–$1,000 over 10 years (readily available at WillyGoat).
Eventual Replacement:
- Used Playground Equipment: Often requires replacement or major updates after 15-20+ years due to increased maintenance costs, part shortages, and safety compliance issues.
- New Playground Equipment: Typically lasts 10-15 years with proper maintenance.
10-Year Total Cost of Ownership:
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Category |
New Playground Equipment |
Used Playground Equipment |
|
Purchase |
$5,000 - $50,000 (for large premium models) |
$4,000 - $8,000 (auctions or private sales) |
|
Inspections |
$250–$700 per inspection |
$250–$700 per inspection |
|
Replacement |
$500–$1,000 over 10 years |
$1,000–$2,500 over 10 years |
|
Total Cost of Ownership |
$8,000 - $58,000, depending on the unit you choose |
$7,500 to $17,500 |
As this comparison shows, the initial savings of used equipment are often misleading. These savings disappear when you factor in increased maintenance, harder-to-find replacement parts, more frequent safety upgrades, and earlier replacement timelines.
New commercial-grade playground equipment from reputable manufacturers offers predictable costs, longer lifespans, and better protection for your long-term investment. For organizations planning to serve children for many years to come, budget-friendly new playground collections may actually provide better value than used alternatives.
Factors to Consider When Buying Used Playground Equipment
Most individuals and organizations don't have the relevant experience required in purchasing used playground equipment. Are you looking for equipment to update your park, school, community, or church? There are multiple factors you need to consider to make a wise purchasing decision that suits your unique needs.
Though it may be overwhelming to buy used playground equipment, with a bit of research and help, you can have a fantastic playground sooner than you know.
Put Your Target Age Group Into Consideration When Buying Used Playground Equipment
Before you begin your search for the used pieces of playground equipment, consider the age group of the kids that will be using the facilities. There are three categories of playground structures: six months to 2 years old, two to five years old, and 5 to 12 years old.
It's crucial for kids only to use the structures designed for their specific age group. Playing in more advanced facilities for their particular age can be dangerous.
Know the Space and Location You Intend to Use the Equipment
You must have a location in mind where you'll place the equipment you buy. The best space to place the playground equipment is a location that people can easily access when necessary.
It will help if you work closely with several families when looking for the best-used playground equipment to serve the community. Working closely with the people around is vital since different societies have varying needs.
Consider Your Budget
Now you know the type of used playground equipment you want to buy and have a strategic location to put them. What next? That's where your budget comes in handy. Where can I find a reputable dealer of used playground equipment? Are there add-ons I need, such as delivery and installation costs, or other structures like trees, flowers, and plants that offer shade?
These questions can help you determine the approximate amount you might spend over time. Remember that your budget should account for not just the purchase price, but also transportation, installation, any necessary repairs or updates, and ongoing maintenance.
Sometimes what appears to be a budget option initially can become expensive once all costs are factored in.
When New Equipment Makes More Sense
While used playground equipment can work for certain applications, there are specific situations where purchasing new commercial-grade equipment is not just preferable, it's essential.
High-Traffic Commercial Applications
Schools, public parks, daycare centers, and community recreation areas see heavy daily use from dozens or even hundreds of children. In these environments, equipment durability is paramount.
Used equipment that may have already endured years of wear simply won't hold up to continued intensive use. New commercial playground equipment is engineered specifically for high-traffic environments, with reinforced construction, commercial-grade materials, and designs tested for thousands of use cycles.
The incremental cost difference becomes negligible when spread across the number of children served and years of service life.
Liability-Sensitive Organizations
For schools, daycares, churches, homeowner associations, and municipal parks, liability protection is critical. These organizations face significant legal exposure if a child is injured on substandard equipment.
Insurance providers are increasingly requiring proof that playground equipment meets current playground safety standards and is properly maintained. Installing used equipment of unknown provenance, without warranty protection or manufacturer support, can jeopardize insurance coverage and expose the organization to lawsuits.
New equipment that's certified to meet ASTM and CPSC standards, backed by manufacturer warranties, and supported with proper documentation, provides a legal safety net that used equipment simply cannot offer.
Long-term Installations (10+ Year Timeline)
If you're planning a playground that will serve your community for a decade or more, new equipment makes financial sense. As our cost comparison demonstrates, used equipment often needs replacement in 7-10 years, while quality new commercial equipment can last 15-20+ years with proper maintenance.
For long-term installations, you'll actually spend less money overall by starting with new equipment, plus you'll avoid the disruption and expense of premature replacement.
ADA Compliance Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that playgrounds be accessible to children of all abilities. Many older playground structures don't meet current ADA guidelines for accessible routes, transfer systems, ground-level play components, and inclusive design.
If your organization is required to provide ADA-compliant play spaces, as most public entities are, used equipment poses a significant risk of non-compliance. Modern commercial playground equipment is designed from the ground up with inclusive play in mind, ensuring that children of all abilities can play together safely.
When Customization is Needed
Every community has unique needs, space constraints, age demographics, and play preferences. Used equipment is sold "as-is" with no ability to customize colors, configurations, or components.
New playground equipment can be tailored to your specific requirements. Options include incorporating local themes, adjusting the layout to fit an unusual space, selecting age-appropriate challenge levels, and choosing colors that complement your facility.
This customization ensures maximum engagement from the children you serve and optimal use of your available space.
The Peace of Mind Factor
Beyond the practical considerations, there's something to be said for the peace of mind that comes with new equipment. You know its complete history, you have warranty protection, you have manufacturer support for parts and service, and you can be confident it meets all current safety standards.
For many organizations, especially those responsible for children's safety, this peace of mind is invaluable. If your situation aligns with any of these scenarios, we encourage you to explore commercial playground equipment that can serve your community safely and effectively for many years to come.
How to Purchase Used Playground Equipment: Frequently Asked Questions
Why are you selling your playground equipment?
If you're buying the used playground equipment from an individual or private seller, it would be best to inquire why they want to dispose of their structures. Several reasons can make the owner sell their pieces of playground equipment.
For instance, they might sell because they no longer require them, to upgrade, to address hidden mechanical issues, or for other reasons. The answer from the seller might give you a clue about any potential problems with the equipment.
How long have your pieces of playground equipment been used?
If the seller purchased the piece of equipment new, they can gladly present its full history. However, if they bought the facilities from another person, there may be several unknowns.
If there has been more than one previous owner, it would be challenging for the seller to give you the prior history of the pieces of equipment's repairs, maintenance, or any other pertinent information.
Can I bring my technician to inspect the pieces of equipment independently?
Ask the owner if you can bring an expert technician to inspect the used playground equipment before you buy. If the pieces are in stable condition without hidden repair issues, the owner should have no problem accommodating this request.
The technician should be able to thoroughly check the pieces of equipment and give you an expert or honest opinion of whether buying them is a wise decision. One source for local playground equipment professionals is the registry of Certified Playground Safety Inspectors (CPSI).
CPSI is an accreditation developed by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). If you agree to buy used playground equipment, it would be your responsibility to accept it in the state they are in before finalizing the deal with the seller.
Whether it's playground equipment or any other, used items are continuously subjected to some wear and tear. Therefore, before buying the equipment, ensure an expert thoroughly inspects it to ensure it is worth the investment.
Find the Best Solution for Your Playground Needs
Purchasing playground equipment, whether used or new, is a significant investment in your children's health, development, and happiness. While used equipment can work for certain limited applications, many organizations find that the risks, hidden costs, and limitations make it a less attractive option than initially anticipated.
At WillyGoat, we understand that budget constraints are real, especially for schools, churches, and community organizations. That's why we offer the best of both worlds solutions.
We provide the safety, warranty protection, and longevity of new commercial equipment at price points that work for various budgets. Our budget-friendly new playground collections feature quality commercial-grade equipment at accessible prices.
You'll find pricing often comparable to or only slightly more than used equipment, but with all the advantages of new.
We recognize that the upfront cost of new playground equipment can be challenging, even when the long-term value is clear. That's why we offer convenient payment options like Shop Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
These options make it easy to acquire new commercial equipment without traditional financing or credit checks.
Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way
Choosing the right playground equipment involves more than just price comparisons. You need to consider safety standards, age appropriateness, space requirements, ADA compliance, installation needs, and long-term maintenance.
Whether you're working with a modest budget or planning an extensive play area, we can help you find a solution. It prioritizes children's safety and engagement while respecting your financial constraints.
Request a free quote to discuss your playground needs and discover how affordable new commercial playground equipment can be.
Ready to explore your options? Request a quote or browse our selection of commercial playground equipment to see what's possible for your space and budget.
