Cedar vs Vinyl Swing Sets: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a cedar and vinyl swing set often comes down to material preference and maintenance needs. Both the Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley and the Gorilla Playsets Outing offer ready-to-assemble designs with multiple play features. The primary difference lies in the construction material: one uses 100% cedar wood, while the other utilizes wood components with a green vinyl tarp roof. This cedar vs vinyl swing set comparison highlights how material choice impacts durability, appearance, and long-term care for your backyard playground.
Key differences
| Aspect | Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set | Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% cedar wood | Wood with vinyl tarp |
| Number of Swings | 2 belt swings, 1 trapeze, web swing | 2 belt swings, 1 trapeze |
| Slide Type | 8-foot wave slide | Alpine wave slide, Tunnel Twister slide |
| Deck Height | 119 inches total height | 4 ft |
| Weight | 308 pounds | 349 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set if
- You prefer the natural look and durability of 100% cedar wood construction
- You want a web swing included alongside the belt swings and trapeze
- You prioritize a lighter overall structure for easier handling during assembly
Choose Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides if
- You want two slides instead of one for added play variety
- You prefer a vinyl tarp roof for potentially lower maintenance cleaning
- You need a higher total structure height at 126 inches
Verdict: Choose the Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley if you value natural cedar wood and an extra web swing. Select the Gorilla Playsets Outing if you prefer dual slides and a vinyl tarp roof. Both sets provide solid ready-to-assemble play options with different material focuses.
Cedar Wood vs Vinyl Swing Set
Material construction
The Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley is built from 100% cedar wood. This natural material offers exceptional strength and natural resistance to decay. It features a charming light brown stain, though saturation may vary. The Gorilla Playsets Outing uses wood construction but is highlighted for its green vinyl tarp. The Gorilla set is described as having wood lumber that is pre-cut, pre-sanded, and pre-drilled to simplify assembly. Both sets use wood as the primary structural component, but the Mount McKinley emphasizes pure cedar durability while the Outing focuses on the vinyl roof option.
Slide variety
The Gorilla Playsets Outing provides double the fun with two distinct slides: an alpine wave slide and a Tunnel Twister slide. This dual-slide configuration allows for more simultaneous play options. In contrast, the Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley features a single 8-foot wave slide. While the Mount McKinley slide is noted for offering swift descents, the Gorilla set clearly wins on variety. If you want multiple children to slide at once without waiting, the Gorilla Playsets Outing is the superior choice due to its second slide.
Swing count
The Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley includes two classic belt swings and one trapeze. The Gorilla Playsets Outing also features two belt swings and one trapeze swing. Both sets provide identical swinging capabilities for multiple children. The Mount McKinley data also mentions a web swing in the features list, which would give it a slight edge if that is included. However, based on the primary key specs, both offer two belt swings and a trapeze. This is a tie in terms of standard swinging equipment provided for active play.
Climbing features
Both sets include climbing elements for physical activity. The Gorilla Playsets Outing comes with a rock wall and a climbing rope. The Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley features a double rock climbing wall with nine holds and a rope assist, plus a separate over 6-foot-tall rope ladder with wooden rungs. The Mount McKinley offers a more extensive climbing experience with the additional rope ladder and the wider double rock wall. This provides more vertical challenges and varied climbing techniques for children compared to the single rock wall and rope on the Gorilla set.
Dimensions and footprint
The Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley measures 150 inches wide by 186 inches long and 119 inches high. The Gorilla Playsets Outing is wider at 180 inches but slightly longer at 186 inches and taller at 126 inches. The Gorilla set has a larger width footprint, which might be a concern for smaller yards. The Mount McKinley is narrower, potentially fitting better in tighter spaces. Both have the same length. The Gorilla set is also heavier at 349 pounds compared to the Mount McKinley's 308 pounds, indicating a potentially more substantial build.
Cedar vs Vinyl Swing Set Choice
Parents wanting a spacious cedar playset with climbing features
This Backyard Discovery set is built from 100% cedar wood, offering natural decay resistance and strength. It features a double rock climbing wall with nine holds and a rope ladder. The 150 by 186 by 119 inch footprint provides ample room for active play and includes a raised deck with a canopy.
Buyers needing a compact vinyl set with dual slides
The Gorilla Playsets Outing model fits in smaller yards with a 180 by 186 by 126 inch footprint. It includes two distinct slides: an alpine wave slide and a Tunnel Twister slide. The vinyl construction requires less maintenance than wood. It also features a 4-foot play deck height for easy access.
Those prioritizing a long warranty and sturdy wood build
This cedar swing set comes with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment. The 100% cedar wood construction ensures durability against the elements. It includes two belt swings, a trapeze, and a web swing for versatile play options. The sturdy build supports multiple children playing simultaneously on different features.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set | Large yards needing durable cedar playsets | Check price of Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set on Amazon |
| 2 | Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides | Families wanting dual slides and a rock wall | Check price of Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides on Amazon |
The products compared
Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set
Best for: Large yards needing durable cedar playsets
- Material
- Cedar (what this guide is about)
- Number of Swings
- 2 belt swings, 1 trapeze, web swing
- Slide Type
- 8-foot wave slide
- Assembled Dimensions
- 150 in W x 186 in L x 119 in H
- Installation Type
- Ready to assemble
- Warranty
- 5-year warranty
View on Amazon: Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set Affiliate link
This Backyard Discovery swing set is built from 100% cedar wood, offering natural decay resistance and structural strength. It measures 150 by 186 inches with a height of 119 inches, providing ample space for play. The set includes a raised deck, an 8-foot wave slide, and two belt swings plus a trapeze. It is designed for families seeking durable outdoor equipment with multiple activity zones.
Pros
- Constructed from 100% cedar wood for durability and decay resistance
- Includes two belt swings, one trapeze, and a web swing
- Features an 8-foot wave slide and double rock climbing wall
- Spacious raised play deck with a canopy roof and steering wheel
- Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Large footprint requires a significant yard area
- Requires assembly after purchase
- Sand for the sandbox area is not included
Good fit if
- You want a durable wood structure with natural decay resistance
- You have a large yard to accommodate a 150 by 186 inch footprint
- You need multiple play options including swinging and climbing
Skip if
- You prefer a low-maintenance vinyl structure
- You have limited space for a large assembled unit
- You want a fully pre-assembled product ready to use
Verdict: Backyard Discovery Mount Mckinley Cedar Swing Set is a solid choice for families with large yards who want durable cedar construction and varied play features like a slide and rock wall. It suits those willing to assemble the unit for a robust, long-lasting setup.
Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides
Best for: Families wanting dual slides and a rock wall
- Material
- Vinyl (what this guide is about)
- Slide Type
- Alpine wave slide, Tunnel Twister slide
- Deck Height
- 4 ft
- Assembled Dimensions
- 180"W x 126"H x 186"L
- Installation Type
- Ready-to-assemble
- Dimensions
- 186 × 180 × 126 inches
View on Amazon: Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides Affiliate link
The Gorilla Playsets Outing Wood Swing Set combines a wood frame with vinyl accents and green tarp roofing. It features a 4-foot play deck and dual slides, including an alpine wave and tunnel twister design. The unit measures 180 inches wide by 186 inches long. This ready-to-assemble model includes a rock wall, sandbox, and various swings. It suits families seeking a compact footprint with multiple play features in a single structure.
Pros
- Dual slide configuration with alpine wave and tunnel twister designs
- Includes rock wall with climbing rope and built-in sandbox area
- Compact footprint fits in various yard sizes
- Pre-cut, pre-sanded lumber with pre-drilled main beams for easier assembly
Cons
- Large assembled footprint at 180 inches wide and 186 inches long
- Heavy build at 349 pounds requires significant yard space
- No mention of adult swing or seat swings in standard configuration
Good fit if
- You want a wood structure with vinyl roof for weather protection
- You need a play set with a rock wall and sandbox
- You have a yard large enough for an 186-inch long set
Skip if
- You prefer a vinyl frame over wood construction
- You have limited yard space for a 180-inch wide structure
- You want a set with adult swings included
Verdict: Gorilla Playsets Outing Wood Swing Set offers a versatile mix of climbing, sliding, and sand play in a wood frame with vinyl roofing. It fits families who value varied activities and have the yard space for its substantial dimensions.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley Cedar Swing Set | Gorilla Playsets Outing Swing Set with Dual Slides |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% cedar wood | Wood |
| Number of Swings | 2 belt swings, 1 trapeze, web swing | not stated |
| Slide Type | 8-foot wave slide | Alpine wave slide, Tunnel Twister slide |
| Deck Height | not stated | 4 ft |
| Assembled Dimensions | 150 in W x 186 in L x 119 in H | 180"W x 126"H x 186"L |
| Installation Type | Ready to assemble | Ready-to-assemble |
| Warranty | 5-year warranty | not stated |
| Dimensions | 186 × 150 × 119 inches | 186 × 180 × 126 inches |
| Weight | 308 pounds | 349 pounds |
| Color | Light Brown | Amber |
| Model | 1705012 | 01-1073-Y |
Frequently asked questions
Is cedar or vinyl better for swing sets?
Cedar offers natural decay resistance and strength, making it ideal for durability. Vinyl provides low maintenance and weather protection. Choose cedar for a traditional look and robust structure. Pick vinyl if you want a frame that resists rot without regular staining or sealing.
Do vinyl swing sets need maintenance?
Vinyl swing sets generally require less maintenance than wood. The material resists rot, insects, and weathering. You typically only need to wash it with soap and water. This makes it a practical choice for busy families who want a playset that stays clean with minimal effort.
How long do cedar swing sets last?
Cedar is known for its exceptional strength and natural resistance to decay. When properly assembled and maintained, these sets last for many years. The natural oils in the wood help protect against moisture and insects. This makes cedar a reliable option for long-term outdoor use.
Are vinyl swing sets safer than wood?
Both materials can be safe when installed correctly. Vinyl frames often feature smooth surfaces that reduce splinter risks. Cedar provides a sturdy, solid structure. Safety depends more on proper assembly and supervision than the material itself. Both options offer secure platforms for climbing and swinging activities.
Which material handles weather better?
Vinyl handles moisture and sun exposure well without warping or rotting. Cedar naturally resists decay but may fade or require sealing over time. Both materials withstand outdoor conditions. Your choice depends on whether you prefer the natural aging of wood or the consistent look of vinyl.
Can I mix cedar and vinyl parts?
Some sets combine materials for specific features. For example, a wood frame might include a vinyl roof. This mix offers the strength of wood with the weather protection of vinyl. Check the product specifications to see which materials are used in each component of the set.