Playgrounds are more than just places to burn off children's energy—they're mini-kingdoms of imagination, social hubs, and fitness centers rolled into one. But when you're tasked with designing one, a big decision looms: Should it be a modular or custom playground? Which is the faster route from blueprint to playtime? And when the dust settles, which one asks less of you in terms of long-term upkeep? In this article, we'll help you break it all down to guide you in which one will suit you best.
Before diving into time and maintenance, it’s important to understand the playground personalities we’re dealing with here.
Modular playgrounds are like the LEGO sets of the playground world. They’re made of pre-designed components that snap together in various configurations. You can think of slides, tunnels, climbers, and swings that are mass-produced but highly versatile.
Custom playgrounds, on the other hand, are your blank-canvas masterpieces. They’re tailor-made from scratch to fit your exact vision, whether that includes a pirate ship, a jungle safari, or a futuristic theme park. Materials, layout, and features are uniquely crafted for your space and goals.
If you’re in a rush to get the kids swinging, sliding, and climbing around, modular playgrounds are definitely your best bet. Here are the best reasons to go modular if speed is the goal:
For most modular systems, playground installation time can be as short as a few days to a couple of weeks. A school or park aiming to have equipment ready by the next semester or summer season can surely rely on modular builds to meet the deadline. Since custom playgrounds are somehow the exact opposite and may take some time to build, here are some of the processes that it may include:
This can add up to several weeks or even a few months from idea to a fully installed play space. Custom builds are ideal for ambitious and one-of-a-kind concepts, but if you’re on the clock, modular will get the job done faster.
Once the playground is installed, your job isn’t over. Keeping it safe, functional, and welcoming is an ongoing process, and some systems make that easier than others. Modular playgrounds are surely the champions of low-effort upkeep. Here are some best practices for long-term care with modular systems:
Modular equipment is built with consistent design standards, meaning your maintenance team likely already has the tools and knowledge needed for repairs. If your goal is low-maintenance playground equipment, modular is a no-brainer. As for custom playgrounds, while they are visually striking, they do require more maintenance and upkeep:
By prioritizing a maintenance-friendly structure—especially across large campus or municipal projects—you’re saving yourself time, money, and more than a few future headaches.
Now let’s talk dollars and cents (and sense!).
Budget often drives big decisions, and playgrounds are no exception. Modular playgrounds tend to be more budget-friendly upfront because you're buying into an efficient system. The design and planning costs are lower, economies of scale help bring down manufacturing expenses, and you can count on predictable delivery and installation timelines. On top of that, modular playgrounds help save on future maintenance, since replacement parts and routine fixes are typically straightforward and inexpensive.
On the flip side, custom playgrounds can require a significantly higher initial investment. Their unique and often elaborate designs come with higher costs for custom consultations, site-specific engineering, specialty materials, and non-standard shipping. But they don’t just cost more because they deliver more, too. Custom playgrounds can attract more attention, adapt to the evolving needs of your community, and offer standout branding opportunities for schools, cities, or private spaces.
So, it’s not just about upfront costs—it’s about long-term value. Modular playgrounds provide quick returns with minimal fuss, while custom playgrounds, though pricier, can create a legacy of impact that lasts for generations.
Still torn between modular and custom? Since installation and maintenance are key, let's look at how each works on the ground to see what fits you best.
Community parks, children’s museums, or spaces with strong identities may lean toward custom. Schools, daycare centers, or HOAs looking for smart, safe, and swift solutions may stick with modular and never look back.
At AAA State of Play, we offer both modular and custom playground solutions to fit your goals, timeline, and budget. So whether you're looking for a fast installation with low-maintenance components or a fully customized play experience that turns heads, we've got you covered.
From planning to installation, we'll partner with you to create a one-of-a-kind play environment that will surely reflect your community and values. So, are you ready to build something incredible? Contact us today so we can help bring your ideal playground to life.
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.
