A playhouse can be a big purchase, so you want to know your kids will get plenty of use from it. Will there be room for their friends? Will they still enjoy it in a few years? And how much work will it take to keep it in good condition outside?
Whether your family calls it a playhouse or a cubby house, the things to check are much the same. This guide covers materials, size, safety, and how to choose a setup that suits your backyard as your kids grow.
Choose a Material You Can Look After
It's easy to start with the design you like best. But the material will affect how the playhouse handles the weather and how much maintenance you'll need to do.
Timber has a traditional look and can be painted to suit your backyard. Depending on the wood and finish, it may need regular staining or sealing. You'll also need to check for splinters, loose joints, and moisture damage.
Plastic is often an affordable option for younger kids. It's easy to wipe clean and doesn't need painting, though smaller designs can be outgrown quickly. Some plastics can also fade or become brittle after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Metal is worth considering if you want a sturdy structure with less routine upkeep. Galvanising helps protect steel against rust, while powder coating adds a protective finish. You'll still need to check the frame, coating, and fasteners, but you won't have the same staining and sealing routine that can come with timber.
Think about where the playhouse will sit, too. Does that part of the backyard get strong wind, full afternoon sun, or water pooling after rain? Check the manufacturer's care instructions for your conditions, particularly if you live near the coast.
Pick a Size That Leaves Room to Grow
A small cubby might suit your child perfectly today, but it's worth thinking a few years ahead. Look at the space inside, the height of the entrance, and whether siblings or friends could comfortably play together.
Check the recommended ages and user limits as well. A larger structure isn't automatically suitable for a younger child, especially if it has an elevated entrance or requires climbing to get inside.
Before you decide, measure the space in your backyard and compare it with the full setup dimensions. Remember to allow for the clearances listed in the installation instructions, rather than just the footprint of the cubby itself.
Think About How Your Kids Like to Play
Some kids want a quiet hideout where they can bring their toys and make up stories. Others will spend most of their time climbing in and out. A playhouse can suit both, especially when it connects to other activities.
With monkey bars or swings nearby, the cubby can become a stop along an obstacle course, a clubhouse, or somewhere to rest between games. That gives children a few different reasons to keep coming back to it.
Explore the Growplay cubby house and playhouse range if you're looking for a cubby that works with a backyard frame. If you already own a frame, check that your particular model is compatible before buying an add-on.
Plan the Installation Before It Arrives
Once you've chosen a spot, check what needs to happen before assembly. The ground may need preparation, and the surface underneath must meet the manufacturer's requirements. You'll also need to follow the instructions for securing the structure.
Leave enough space around the equipment for children to move and play. If you're including swings, account for their full movement and the required clearance.
Read the assembly instructions ahead of time so you know which tools you'll need and how many adults should help. After installation, keep up with the recommended checks for loose hardware, wear, and secure anchors. Follow the age and supervision guidance for the equipment.
Consider What You'll Get From It Over Time
The price matters, but so does how long your family can use the playhouse. A cheaper cubby may be enough for what you need. But if it's already a tight fit or doesn't suit the way your kids play, you could find yourself replacing it sooner than expected.
Look at the upkeep involved, whether replacement parts are available, and what can be added later. A compatible frame with room for different accessories gives you options as your children's interests change.
You don't need to buy the whole setup at once. Start with what your kids will enjoy now and leave space for any additions you have in mind.
Helpful Next Steps
Summary
A good playhouse should fit your backyard, suit your children's ages, and give them space to play in their own way. Before buying, check the materials, dimensions, installation requirements, and maintenance involved.
For New Zealand families wanting a durable setup with less regular upkeep, a metal cubby house is worth considering. Choose one with enough room and suitable activities for the years ahead, and it can remain a well-used part of your backyard as your kids grow.
