You can drive some 16 penny nails all around the bottom of the post the part that gets buried in the concrete and let the nails stick out about 4 inches and that will help keep your post from twisting and rocking back and forth when the kids are swinging.
Just built the the swing set for my sons bday. We put a saucer swing on it and it works great. I live in the Columbia River gorge so it’s pretty wet around here so I used pressure treated beams. Hopefully I’ll get a few more years out of them. Thanks for the video super helpful. You help make my sons bday the best ever.
I did the install slightly differently. I put both posts in holes the same, but mine had the t braces (all 4) already attached. Then I was able to lift the cross beam and drop in between the slight loose t braces. I bolted everything together BEFORE concrete to make 100% sure it all was aligned. Made me more comfortable. Concrete is pretty permanent. :-) Also let me easily check level beam.
MassiveDynamics: 12 gauge plate steel (Bolted front and back of each post) allows for the safety factor required for the force of two swings. However, feel free to install additional lateral supports to your install. Thank you.
I really like this build . Especially the simplicity of it . However I am wondering after all those heavy duty bolts and concreted posts you used to support the stress on the swing. I was why you used small screws to install the swing fittings?
Great question Wayne Jones. The swing bolt manufacturer provided the smaller screws with that swing kit. Maybe, try another type swing kit. Good luck with your build.
Great question Rosa Otero: This build has a 12' beam that overhangs 1' on each side. Posts are centered on a 10' wide opening. Good luck with your build.
Connie Erickson asked: I had this built and there is sway on the top half. Is this normal or suggestion of how I can correct this? Great Question Connie Erickson. Yes, with wood columns at a clear height of +/- 9 feet, expect some flex movement at the top.
Lucky I work at a fab shop they have similar wood as in the video real thick ass wood from oak to pine I got four pieces down in my mom's basement for diy projects I have a 2 year I want to build her something nice for the backyard the wood isnt that long well I havnt measured it
well thought through. I was wondering, wouldnt it be easier to assemble the top bar on the ground and then put the two vertical posts in the concrete. that way you wont run into adjustment issues on the top? Anyhow, very nice and simple design.
Good idea. I thought about putting it all together and “walking it upright”. However, if u fill it with concrete first, your posts may not sink far enough down and its not fun fighting thru concrete..and even if u poured the concrete after u put the structure upright, its ALOT of weight to try to make any adjustments on leveling. i just built a similar one, i opted to put predrilled posts in first, then place header on it by having 2 people standing on bed of pickup truck. Easy to do it that way. Good luck!
Just be aware that Simpson Strong Tie, who manufactures those T-straps, has never tested them for use as a swing set support. Thus, they jump away from anything that sounds like they remotely endorse them for such applications. (Yes, I’ve spoken directly to their engineering department)
As I thought about this I was thinking about how 1. The swing is attached at the bottom of the top beam. 2. The swing at most will be an angle of say 50-60 degrees maybe 3. The t braces are 6 bolts all the way through and on both sides so there is support of opposite push/pull on these. Would love to see a statics model of these to see how my intuitions fit reality.
Tyson Fogel Hi there. So I built this yesterday with 6x6x12 posts. I haven’t put it in the ground yet. I was hoping to use it as an adult swing, and be able to swing high, full tilt. But then I thought twice-will this work for an adult without diagonal braces? Any update or comments would be much appreciated.
Great question Tyson Fogel. Utilizing this particular swing system, each swing is designed to hold 225 pounds. However, feel free to add additional lateral supports to your build. Good luck with your project.
That's a great question Susan Nguyen. Estimated build time is 4 to 6 hours. However, once you set the posts, you should allow 3 to 5 days for the concrete to cure. Good luck with your build.
Awesome project!!!! I have a question about the post. The pressure treated wood looks good but I need to paint white, so the other 4"x4" wood in homedepot is a good alternative like douglas fir? I live in California, I hope it can last 10+ years
Great question Robert Johnson. We used the 6”x6” pressure treated. Follow your local store recommendations for painting or stain. Good luck with your build.
We used pressure treated lumber on our fence, then painted it with white, semi-gloss, exterior house paint (from Walmart with 25 yr guarantee, I think), & it's gorgeous... the 1st fence lasted 20+ yrs before some posts needed replaced (the fence existed b4 we moved in~ we only painted it), but that paint wasn't peeling, faded, or anything, & it was still going strong. Last yr we replaced & repaired the fence & started repainting it b4 an early winter thwarted our plans, but the paint once again was adhering to the treated posts, soaking in just fine, & looking amazing... IDK why more people don't paint those things bc they turn out amazing! I'll make one side note, we don't use sprayers, but rather always use rollers & brushes to paint, as it delivers more paint & gets into all the little holes (looks like staple marks) on those posts, & we're pretty meticulous about coverage. We also use 3 coats, so we do it right the 1st time & don't have to repaint every few yrs. The 1st coat is put on extremely heavy, & we paid close attention to temps & humidity for good adhesion. But remember that 1st fence was an existing fence, several yrs old, when we moved in, so if you didn't paint in the 1st few yrs, you still can... just use an exterior, semi-gloss house paint & you'll be golden. We used the color palace, Walmart brand, which we found out last yr is actually made by Sherwin Williams. Hope this helps you or someone else... good luck.
Works great to back up a pickup truck directly beneath the beam. Have 2 people stand in the truck bed to lift each end. Safer than struggling on a ladder...
After 4 years, how stable is it now.?? Has it worked loose around the concrete in that soft ground,,? I'm looking at building a swing set for the grandkids, and wondering about the best method,, thanks..
Great question, John. I got on it last month with one of the grandchildren. It remains very stable. We inspect the connections periodically. The plates, bolts and concrete foundations all look great. We are getting ready to build another on a different property. Stay tuned and subscribe for that video soon. Good luck with your build.
That's a great question Ooygin Jardl. Make sure to plumb and brace the columns, prior to placing the concrete. When setting the beam, you have some flexibility during bolt installation. Be safe and good luck with your build.
I'm about to do the same for a bench swing , 4 feet in the ground and 8 feet above. I am using steel WILD HOG Corner Extension Brackets so I don't need lag bolts . How many 50 pound bags did you need to fill those holes ?
Great question Crimson Decade. We used 12' posts, anchored 36" in the ground. Typical ground hole with post uses 3 ea.-60 pound bags of concrete mix. Good luck with your bench swing.
@@Delmanmel have you noticed any movement since you have installed it or while they are swinging ? I would have expected about 10 bags per post based upon your depth and an 18" hole for that post size.
Great question Justin Eltoft: I recall the fit being tight. Adjusting the bit size slightly will help with the bolt installation. Thanks for the recommendation.
@@Delmanmel thanks! Yea I needed a 4lb dead blow to get them in 1/2 hole. The treated lumber seems to make it a tight fit also. I just got a 16 inch diameter form for the concrete. I think that should work
This worked perfect BTW. 5/8 inch. I used a block of wood on the drill press to make a perfectly perpendicular guide. Came out beautiful. Thanks sooooo much for the video. I went down 40 inches for the holes. Five 80lb concrete bags on each side.
+/-9’ clear span. Swing chains are +/-18” apart. That leaves +/-6’ remaining. Keep the distance between swings and posts equidistant. Hope that clarifies. Good luck with your build.
760BassFishing ~ Confirm the list within the video. However, 3ea-12' 6x6 posts, 4ea "T" Plates, 6ea-7"Galv.1/2"Bolts/Nuts, Chain, Sakrete, 2ea-Swing Kits.
@@Delmanmel what size T plate ? Are these the right ones ? Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing. www.homedepot.com/p/OWT-Ornamental-Wood-Ties-OWT-Lite-Laredo-Sunset-5-in-12-Guage-Black-Galvanized-Steel-T-Tie-Wood-Connector-Plate-Kit-with-Hex-Cap-Nuts-O56692/313353020
From: joshhanson79: What size bolts did you use? I am planning a project of my own thanks in advance: Mr. Hanson- Bolts 1/2"dia.-7"long-Galvanized. Good Luck with you project!
Without any diagonal stiffening for the uprights in the direction of swinging, you’ll be doing well to get one year of use out of your new swings. Enjoy.
I was wondering about additional diagonal support as well. Looks like these are meant for some very small kids so i doubt there will be an issue but getting into 2 tweens on that thing will be interesting.
I have a friend who built a similar swing set for his kids, that was about 8 years ago and it hasn’t had any issues. He did use a 8” wide beam on the top.
They are way expensive then it should be. 4 bucks for a nut bolt. And thatetal plate, 20 bucks? Man that's robbery. It's just a steel plate cut out from a sheet of probably 2x4 feet that would cost about 10 to 12 bucks.
We have one that was constructed over 10 years ago and still standing strong. This model has been working well for close to one year and designed adequately for a two swing system. However, feel free to have your swing system designed and approved to your satisfaction. Good luck with your build.
His instructions should be sufficient. I’d trust that more than the dried out cracked up garbage they sell swingsets with. I’ve lifted these 6’ x 6’ treated posts. They are beefy. If it sags or shows signs of sagging, then additional supports needed perhaps.
You can drive some 16 penny nails all around the bottom of the post the part that gets buried in the concrete and let the nails stick out about 4 inches and that will help keep your post from twisting and rocking back and forth when the kids are swinging.
Just built the the swing set for my sons bday. We put a saucer swing on it and it works great. I live in the Columbia River gorge so it’s pretty wet around here so I used pressure treated beams. Hopefully I’ll get a few more years out of them. Thanks for the video super helpful. You help make my sons bday the best ever.
Thank you so much, I’m building one this week for the grandchildren. Very helpful video and instructions.
This is far the best and most simple frame for a swing. thanks. 👍👍
This video is awesome ❤❤❤❤ thanks so much!
I did the install slightly differently. I put both posts in holes the same, but mine had the t braces (all 4) already attached. Then I was able to lift the cross beam and drop in between the slight loose t braces. I bolted everything together BEFORE concrete to make 100% sure it all was aligned. Made me more comfortable. Concrete is pretty permanent. :-)
Also let me easily check level beam.
MassiveDynamics: 12 gauge plate steel (Bolted front and back of each post) allows for the safety factor required for the force of two swings. However, feel free to install additional lateral supports to your install. Thank you.
That’s a great question Mr. Prunes. Since it’s only a 1’ overhang, the last bolt is not necessary. However, feel free to add it for yours. Thank you.
Great info 👍
$45 posts!! Wow!! Now they’re $74 for 6x6x12s. Thanks for the video!!
Nop:(
I mean nooo! Lumber prices are ridiculous !
80$ now..lol
November 2022- price is now $64.18 😂
100 now in 2023
Best swing set video and absolutely the safest for the kids.
Wow, thanks!
Well deserved.
I really like this build . Especially the simplicity of it . However I am wondering after all those heavy duty bolts and concreted posts you used to support the stress on the swing. I was why you used small screws to install the swing fittings?
Great question Wayne Jones. The swing bolt manufacturer provided the smaller screws with that swing kit. Maybe, try another type swing kit. Good luck with your build.
Thanks I like ur information
Good job.
I will do one for a bench I have.
Where did you find those T metal brackets?
That’s a great idea, Joaquin Suarez! The T brackets were purchased at Home Depot.
Nicely done
Can you please provide the dimensions on the beam across? Great video, I want to redo my daughters swings that take up too much space
Great question Rosa Otero: This build has a 12' beam that overhangs 1' on each side. Posts are centered on a 10' wide opening. Good luck with your build.
Connie Erickson
asked: I had this built and there is sway on the top half. Is this normal or suggestion of how I can correct this? Great Question Connie Erickson. Yes, with wood columns at a clear height of +/- 9 feet, expect some flex movement at the top.
Lucky I work at a fab shop they have similar wood as in the video real thick ass wood from oak to pine I got four pieces down in my mom's basement for diy projects I have a 2 year I want to build her something nice for the backyard the wood isnt that long well I havnt measured it
well thought through. I was wondering, wouldnt it be easier to assemble the top bar on the ground and then put the two vertical posts in the concrete. that way you wont run into adjustment issues on the top? Anyhow, very nice and simple design.
Thank you Syed Ahmed. That is one alternative for installation. That would be too heavy for me though.
The weight is hard to lift.
Good idea. I thought about putting it all together and “walking it upright”. However, if u fill it with concrete first, your posts may not sink far enough down and its not fun fighting thru concrete..and even if u poured the concrete after u put the structure upright, its ALOT of weight to try to make any adjustments on leveling. i just built a similar one, i opted to put predrilled posts in first, then place header on it by having 2 people standing on bed of pickup truck. Easy to do it that way. Good luck!
Very helpful video,thank you very much.
How do you stop a swing set from squeaking? It is a metal A-Frame with chains attached for the swing. I oiled it and still squeaks like crazy.
Should the chain hanging brackets been turned 90 degrees allowing the rubber lined “S” hooks to pivot on the eyebolts in the swing direction?
Thank George Douglas. Yes, they can be turned 90 degrees.
Just be aware that Simpson Strong Tie, who manufactures those T-straps, has never tested them for use as a swing set support. Thus, they jump away from anything that sounds like they remotely endorse them for such applications. (Yes, I’ve spoken directly to their engineering department)
Andy G - Thank you for checking on this. We are just beyond 3 years since built and still standing strong. Good luck with your design and build.
As I thought about this I was thinking about how 1. The swing is attached at the bottom of the top beam. 2. The swing at most will be an angle of say 50-60 degrees maybe 3. The t braces are 6 bolts all the way through and on both sides so there is support of opposite push/pull on these. Would love to see a statics model of these to see how my intuitions fit reality.
Tyson Fogel
Hi there. So I built this yesterday with 6x6x12 posts. I haven’t put it in the ground yet. I was hoping to use it as an adult swing, and be able to swing high, full tilt. But then I thought twice-will this work for an adult without diagonal braces? Any update or comments would be much appreciated.
Great question Tyson Fogel. Utilizing this particular swing system, each swing is designed to hold 225 pounds. However, feel free to add additional lateral supports to your build. Good luck with your project.
@@Delmanmel For adult use is there is bigger sway at top of the swing ? What is recommended for change for 200lb adult use ?
May you please tell me about how long it took you to build this?
That's a great question Susan Nguyen. Estimated build time is 4 to 6 hours. However, once you set the posts, you should allow 3 to 5 days for the concrete to cure. Good luck with your build.
I really would have liked to have seen someone actually swing on it. I guess I want to see with my own eyes how strong it is.
Suggestion: Bolt the entire upper beam complete solid. Use your helpers to stand it up and in the holes - no ladders - no adjusting
Great idea David James! That route was just too heavy for me. 🏋🏼
@@Delmanmel yeah that is certainly the draw back.
Just stumbled on this video. I am planning to do this exact project. I am curious as to how sturdy it is. Can you get on it and swing with no problem?
3 years and our project is still sturdy and working strong. Adult usage included. Good luck with your build.
Awesome project!!!! I have a question about the post. The pressure treated wood looks good but I need to paint white, so the other 4"x4" wood in homedepot is a good alternative like douglas fir? I live in California, I hope it can last 10+ years
Great question Robert Johnson. We used the 6”x6” pressure treated. Follow your local store recommendations for painting or stain. Good luck with your build.
We used pressure treated lumber on our fence, then painted it with white, semi-gloss, exterior house paint (from Walmart with 25 yr guarantee, I think), & it's gorgeous... the 1st fence lasted 20+ yrs before some posts needed replaced (the fence existed b4 we moved in~ we only painted it), but that paint wasn't peeling, faded, or anything, & it was still going strong. Last yr we replaced & repaired the fence & started repainting it b4 an early winter thwarted our plans, but the paint once again was adhering to the treated posts, soaking in just fine, & looking amazing...
IDK why more people don't paint those things bc they turn out amazing!
I'll make one side note, we don't use sprayers, but rather always use rollers & brushes to paint, as it delivers more paint & gets into all the little holes (looks like staple marks) on those posts, & we're pretty meticulous about coverage. We also use 3 coats, so we do it right the 1st time & don't have to repaint every few yrs. The 1st coat is put on extremely heavy, & we paid close attention to temps & humidity for good adhesion.
But remember that 1st fence was an existing fence, several yrs old, when we moved in, so if you didn't paint in the 1st few yrs, you still can... just use an exterior, semi-gloss house paint & you'll be golden. We used the color palace, Walmart brand, which we found out last yr is actually made by Sherwin Williams.
Hope this helps you or someone else... good luck.
Looks great. How did you get that topic beam up top?
Set the beam with at least two strong people. Watch the video for set up instructions. Good luck and please be careful. Good luck.
Works great to back up a pickup truck directly beneath the beam. Have 2 people stand in the truck bed to lift each end. Safer than struggling on a ladder...
After 4 years, how stable is it now.??
Has it worked loose around the concrete in that soft ground,,?
I'm looking at building a swing set for the grandkids, and wondering about the best method,, thanks..
Great question, John. I got on it last month with one of the grandchildren. It remains very stable. We inspect the connections periodically. The plates, bolts and concrete foundations all look great. We are getting ready to build another on a different property. Stay tuned and subscribe for that video soon. Good luck with your build.
When you set your uprights, how did you assure that the crossbeam, installed days later, would be level?
That's a great question Ooygin Jardl. Make sure to plumb and brace the columns, prior to placing the concrete. When setting the beam, you have some flexibility during bolt installation. Be safe and good luck with your build.
Hey buddy can u share the link for the hardware that u used? Thanks man. Great video
Great question Christopher. The video lists the specific hardware as it is being constructed. I don't have a specific list. Good luck with your build.
I'm about to do the same for a bench swing , 4 feet in the ground and 8 feet above. I am using steel WILD HOG Corner Extension Brackets so I don't need lag bolts . How many 50 pound bags did you need to fill those holes ?
Great question Crimson Decade. We used 12' posts, anchored 36" in the ground. Typical ground hole with post uses 3 ea.-60 pound bags of concrete mix. Good luck with your bench swing.
@@Delmanmel have you noticed any movement since you have installed it or while they are swinging ? I would have expected about 10 bags per post based upon your depth and an 18" hole for that post size.
@@crimsondecade7420 Yes, you should expect some movement when the swings are in full operation.
Thanks for your wisdom, going to make for God- daughter...
where did you buy the t brackets?
soopermom1000 Thank you for asking. We purchased the brackets at Home Depot.
did you use pressure treated lumber? how is it holding up?
Great question. Yes, pressure treated lumber and working great. Kids were swinging yesterday. Thanks.
I have my 2 posts set Home Depot didnt have those T brackets they had a much smaller version. Where did you get those at?
Home Depot - Simpson Strong Ties. If the local store is out of stock, you may need to order them. Good luck with your build.
How far apart did you put eye hooks for chains?
Great question, Cody Smith. The swing manufacturer recommends 17" for each swing. That allows +2' spacing away from posts and between swing seats.
How many 80 pound bags bags of concrete per post did you use?
Great question. Estimate 5 or 6 bags each. Good luck with your build.
Did you use a 1/2 inch drill bit or a bit bigger like 5/8? I used 1/2 inch bit for the posts and required a dead blow and a lot of persuasion
Also are those dirt holes about 24 inch diameter?
Great question Justin Eltoft: I recall the fit being tight. Adjusting the bit size slightly will help with the bolt installation. Thanks for the recommendation.
@@Delmanmel thanks! Yea I needed a 4lb dead blow to get them in 1/2 hole. The treated lumber seems to make it a tight fit also.
I just got a 16 inch diameter form for the concrete. I think that should work
This worked perfect BTW. 5/8 inch. I used a block of wood on the drill press to make a perfectly perpendicular guide. Came out beautiful. Thanks sooooo much for the video. I went down 40 inches for the holes. Five 80lb concrete bags on each side.
Oh. And I sprayed the wood that was going to be in concrete with that waterproofing from gorilla glue. Just for added water resistance.
Hello! What size drill bit did you use?
Great question. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the bolt shaft. Allow for connecting the T-Plates to the beam. Good luck with your build.
What is the distance from the upright post and the chain and what is the distance between the 2 chains on each swing?
+/-9’ clear span. Swing chains are +/-18” apart. That leaves +/-6’ remaining. Keep the distance between swings and posts equidistant. Hope that clarifies. Good luck with your build.
How much was the total cost to make it?
At the time of build, the estimated cost was $250. Today's costs are probably double that value.
How many bags of cement did you use per post? Thanks
Great question. +/-5
What’s size steal brackets you used?
Chris H. - Steel plates are Home Depot - 12 guage "T" Plates.
Can you pass me your list trying to make some swing for my girls
760BassFishing ~ Confirm the list within the video. However, 3ea-12' 6x6 posts, 4ea "T" Plates, 6ea-7"Galv.1/2"Bolts/Nuts, Chain, Sakrete, 2ea-Swing Kits.
@@Delmanmel thank you so much for the response back man I appreciate it
@@chrissmith7995 "T" plates were located in the Building Supply area at Home Depot. Good Luck.
@@chrissmith7995 Did you end up using 8x8 posts ?
@@Delmanmel what size T plate ? Are these the right ones ?
Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing.
www.homedepot.com/p/OWT-Ornamental-Wood-Ties-OWT-Lite-Laredo-Sunset-5-in-12-Guage-Black-Galvanized-Steel-T-Tie-Wood-Connector-Plate-Kit-with-Hex-Cap-Nuts-O56692/313353020
Can this be used for adult swings?
That's a great question, Stephanie Diaz. Yes, each swing is designed to hold 225 pounds.
Del Creviston hi there! When you say each swing do you mean this can hold a total of 450lbs?
Tabitha Kaus Thank you for asking. Yes, that is the maximum recommended limit.
From: joshhanson79: What size bolts did you use? I am planning a project of my own thanks in advance: Mr. Hanson- Bolts 1/2"dia.-7"long-Galvanized. Good Luck with you project!
What is the full estimated price of this swing?
Olivia Delaney: The estimated cost, depending upon your region, is approximately $300. Thank you for asking.
With the current situation on construction products, in Canada this is a +/- $500 project
What are “t” plates called….trying to search for them.
Great question Mike Repel: Search Home Depot Simpson Strong Tie 6x6. Good Luck with your build.
I wonder if I can pull it off with 4x4 post...for the kids
where did you get the plates?
Hello Mia Muniz. The plates were purchased at Home Depot. In the Building Material area. Good luck.
Without any diagonal stiffening for the uprights in the direction of swinging, you’ll be doing well to get one year of use out of your new swings. Enjoy.
I was wondering about additional diagonal support as well. Looks like these are meant for some very small kids so i doubt there will be an issue but getting into 2 tweens on that thing will be interesting.
I have a friend who built a similar swing set for his kids, that was about 8 years ago and it hasn’t had any issues. He did use a 8” wide beam on the top.
@@mattq6856 He's commented that adults use it, & it's goi'n strong 4 yrs on...
I know you can find solutions to this problem in the Stodoys plans.
youre not showing the important steps like how to pour the concrete, how to place the posts, how to get the top beam up etc
Samy: So sorry we did not have more detailed steps for you. We hope you can make your build work successfully.
Emergency room, get ready!
🍬😥😥😥😥😥😥
They are way expensive then it should be. 4 bucks for a nut bolt. And thatetal plate, 20 bucks? Man that's robbery. It's just a steel plate cut out from a sheet of probably 2x4 feet that would cost about 10 to 12 bucks.
My adventure with the tree began with projects from Woodprix.
I’m no engineer but I have the exact beams in my yard and I would not build this
We have one that was constructed over 10 years ago and still standing strong. This model has been working well for close to one year and designed adequately for a two swing system. However, feel free to have your swing system designed and approved to your satisfaction. Good luck with your build.
His instructions should be sufficient. I’d trust that more than the dried out cracked up garbage they sell swingsets with. I’ve lifted these 6’ x 6’ treated posts. They are beefy. If it sags or shows signs of sagging, then additional supports needed perhaps.
Too much yapping.
Dum