Timber vs. Metal: Which Material is Best for Your Kids’ Monkey Bars?

A classic Aussie backyard activity, there’s a reason why monkey bars continue to be one of the most popular play options year after year. Not only are they great fun for little monkeys looking to get their energy out, but they’re also essential tools for their early development, improving their strength and coordination.

However, choosing the right materials can have a big impact on their experience. That’s why we’ve put together our handy guide for how to choose between timber and metal monkey bars so you can make the best choice for your family.

Types of Monkey Bars

These days, there are so many styles and variations of monkey bars to choose from. Which will be best for you will depend on several things such as your available space, budget and your child’s own preferences.

Why Choose a Wooden Monkey Bar

Wooden monkey bars bring a natural and classic look to your backyard while offering some fantastic benefits.

Keep It Natural

Wood provides a warm, organic aesthetic that blends well with a natural setting. Its earthy appearance makes it an attractive choice for families who prefer a rustic, outdoor feel.

Eco Friendly

Wood is a renewable resource, making it a more sustainable option compared to metal. For environmentally conscious families, wooden monkey bars offer a greener alternative to other materials.

Lightweight and Portability

Wooden backyard monkey bars are usually lighter than their metal counterparts, which makes them easier to move or relocate. This can be especially helpful for families who may want to rearrange their play area over time.

Why Not a Wooden Monkey Bar

While wooden monkey bars offer many advantages, there are some drawbacks to consider.

Regular Maintenance

Wood requires more frequent care than metal to ensure it stays safe and durable. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent splinters, rot or weather damage. For all our timber products, we recommend applying a non-toxic wood sealant every 12 months, as well as straight out of the box. Check out our guide on essential maintenance tips for winter.

Vulnerable to Pests

Over time, wood can attract pests such as termites, which may weaken the structure of the monkey bars. While all our wood has been treated to protect against insect damage, we recommend regular inspections and treatments to keep the equipment in good condition.

Safety Concerns

While all monkey bars are designed to meet Australian safety standards, they can pose safety risks if not properly maintained. Deterioration, cracks or splinters can lead to injuries if the wood is not well cared for.

Why Choose a Metal Monkey Bar

Metal monkey bars are known for their strength and resilience, making them a popular choice for many families.

Resilient

Metal is incredibly durable and is better suited to handle harsh weather. This includes heavy rain, intense sun or cold weather. Metal monkey bars maintain their structural integrity much longer than wood, making them a reliable option for year-round play.

Low Maintenance

Unlike wood, metal monkey bars are easier to maintain. They don’t require constant treatments to protect against pests or decay, and a simple cleaning will typically suffice to keep them in good shape.

Safety Standards

As long as the metal monkey bars are properly installed, they provide a safe, secure structure for your peace of mind. All our sets meet or exceed international safety standards for children’s play equipment, ensuring a high level of protection for your family.

Why Not a Metal Monkey Bar

Although metal is durable and low maintenance, there are some disadvantages to consider.

Hot Surface

On sunny days, metal can get extremely hot to the touch. Kids playing on metal monkey bars may risk burns if the equipment gets too hot during summer months, so it’s important to be mindful of the temperature before use.

Heavy weight

Metal play structures are heavier than wooden ones, which makes them difficult to move or relocate.

Premium Pricing

Metal monkey bars tend to be more expensive than wooden versions due to their increased durability and strength, making them less accessible for families on a budget.

Conclusion

By now, you should have all the info you need to make the best decision. To summarise, wooden monkey bars offer a natural look and eco-friendly benefits, but they require more upkeep and can be vulnerable to pests. On the other hand, metal monkey bars provide durability, minimal maintenance and better resilience, but may come with higher costs and some heat-related issues. Ultimately, the choice will come down to your needs and what will work best in your space. However, if you do have any questions concerns or questions, feel free to reach out to our friendly team and we’ll be happy to help you out.