Creating a safe and engaging playground is a significant undertaking for any school, park district, or community organization. One of the first and most important decisions you’ll face is whether to tackle the project in‑house with a DIY playground installation or bring in experts for a professional playground installation. Both options have merits and drawbacks; that’s why we’ll explore the pros and cons of each approach. In this article, we’ll compare playground installation costs, examine the time and resource commitments involved, and ultimately help you decide which path aligns with your organization’s goals, budget, and timeline.
Many organizations are drawn to the idea of installing playground equipment themselves. The notion of rallying staff, parents, and community volunteers for a hands‑on project is appealing, but there’s more to consider beneath the surface. Here’s what to weigh:
Is DIY right for you? If you have a robust volunteer network, strong project management capacity, and no‑compromise standards for safety training, DIY can work—but only with meticulous planning and oversight.
For many school districts and organizations, the peace of mind that comes with a professional playground installation outweighs the allure of DIY. Here’s why hiring certified installers is often the safer, smarter choice:
By partnering with an experienced crew, you’re investing in durability and compliance, so you can focus on what really matters: the kids.
When comparing playground installation costs, remember that the cheapest option today may cost more tomorrow. Understanding the true playground installation cost means looking beyond initial invoices. Let’s break down the typical expenses for both approaches:
This table is based on computed data and may not be fully accurate.
Bottom line is that going the DIY route might save you up to 20% upfront, but unexpected costs can quickly eat into those savings. Professional installation, on the other hand, offers more predictable budgeting, solid warranties, and fewer maintenance headaches in the long run.
Time is money, and no one wants a half‑finished playground lingering through a school year. Below is a closer look at the hours and resources each approach typically demands.
While you won’t be elbow‑deep in project plans, you’ll still need to dedicate time to contract review and final walk‑throughs. Overall, professional installation often frees up 60–80% of your internal resources compared to a full DIY effort.
Choosing between DIY playground installation and a professional playground installation is ultimately about aligning with your organization’s priorities. Here are some key considerations that can help you with choosing:
AAA State of Play has spent over twenty years partnering with schools, parks, churches, and community centers to design and install playgrounds that are as safe and durable. Our fully certified team adheres to ASTM, ADA, and CPSC standards, which expertly handles every aspect of a project—from site evaluation and design consultation through surfacing selection, permitting, and final inspection. Our goal is to ensure a seamless and code‑compliant build that meets your organization’s unique needs.
We believe in transparent pricing and lasting value: our all‑inclusive quotes cover labor, materials, waste removal, and more, and every installation is backed by a full manufacturer warranty plus our own five‑year labor guarantee. After your playground is complete, our post‑installation inspections, safety audits, and modular design options keep your equipment in peak condition and allow for easy future expansions.
When you choose us, you’re not just hiring installers but also gaining a community‑driven partner. We'll work closely with your teachers, parents, and fundraisers to bring your vision to life, crafting custom spaces that foster imagination and play. Contact us today to request a catalog or schedule a no‑obligation consultation. Let us help you build memories that last a lifetime—safely, affordably, and beautifully.
Kelly has been a CPSI-certified playground inspector for several years. Her passion for play and attention to detail bring immense value to every playground she brings to life, and with her years of experience, every playground she visits is made better for her having been there. In her leisure time, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family.
