Is Having a Backyard Water Slide Right for You?
Your backyard is a place where you can relax, entertain, and have lots of fun. During the warmer months, you probably spend more time in your backyard, and you might want to add some ways of enjoying the space when the weather is right. If you are fortunate to enjoy a warm climate throughout the year, then backyard accessories are something from which you will get even more use. One fun backyard accessory that you might consider is a water slide, but is a backyard water slide right for you? Here is an overview of the different types of water slides available and some considerations to make when deciding whether to buy a water slide for your backyard or not.
Types of Backyard Water Slides
When deciding if a backyard water slide is right for you, you should first consider the different options available as some are potentially more suitable than others. The following are some of the most common types of water slides for back yards.
- Pool water slides – If you have a pool in your backyard, then the obvious choice is to have a water slide that goes into your pool. These are available in various sizes, from ones with a few steps that are intended for younger children, to curved water slides that give you a thrill sliding from a height. The latter is only suitable for large gardens.
- Inflatable water slides – The benefit of an inflatable water slide is that they are a temporary option that you can take down during the colder months. They are also a lot cheaper than a permanent water slide into a pool. These are often similar to a bouncy castle, but with soft steps up to a slide with a shallow pool at the bottom. This type of slide is predominantly aimed at children.
- Slip n’ slides – The cheapest and simplest option is to buy a slip n’ slide. This is a temporary type of water slide that requires no assembly. Generally, they are a plastic sheet with water supplied from a hose. They are great fun for people of all ages.
Things to Consider
In addition to the different types of water slides available, you should also consider the following points when deciding if a water slide is right for your backyard.
- The size of the garden – According to Wishing Dwell, the size of your garden is one of the biggest deciding factors when making the decision whether to have a water slide in your backyard or not. Some backyards simply do not have the space to accommodate a water slide. However, there are lots of different sizes available, so you may find a small one that is suitable for younger children.
- Pool – Whether you have a pool or not will clearly dictate your choice of a water slide. If you do not have a pool, then you are limited to either an inflatable water slide or a slip n’ slide. Those who have a pool have many other options, although the price and the size of the pool and the garden are other factors that may dictate your decision.
- Age and weight restrictions – Trmpolinify says that most water slides have minimum and maximum weight restrictions. Therefore, you need to think about the people who will use the water slide in your backyard and buy one that is suitable.
- Use – How you intend to use the slide is another important consideration. Think about whether a water slide is something you will use daily, or only once or twice a year. If you will hardly ever use the slide and then need to store it in between uses, then a small, cheap inflatable water slide or a slip n’ slide is a better option. On the other hand, if you are a family of keen swimmers and you spend lots of tie in the pool, then adding a permanent water slide is an expense worth considering.
- Neighbors – It is important to have consideration for your neighbors when deciding whether to have a water slide in your backyard or not, especially if you are having a permanent water slide put in place. Make sure you are not blocking the light to their home or impeding on their view. Preferably, speak to them in advance. Even a temporary inflatable water slide may cause them inconvenience if it is up for long periods in the summer months.
- Price – Slip n’ slides are the cheapest options, while a permanent water slide into a pool in your backyard can potentially cost big bucks. The price of both inflatable water slides and permanent waterslides depends on factors such as the materials, the size, and the brand. With permanent water slides, there is the added cost of installation to consider.
The Legalities
It is essential that you also think about the legal implications of having a water slide in your backyard. If you install a permanent water slide by a pool, then you should check if you meet any planning or safety regulations in your area. ARA Legal also says that you should check your homeowner’s insurance policy. Some companies will not cover houses with water slides. Those that do may have specific stipulations relating to safety measures. If you have a permanent water slide structure, it is essential that you are fully covered for injuries and liabilities.
Backyard Waterslides – The Final Verdict
A water slide is a fun addition to a backyard and can offer lots of family fun. Whether or not you have a pool will dictate whether you have a permanent water slide installed or you opt for a temporary water slide to use in warm weather. Temporary options include inflatables and slip n’ slides. Regardless of which type you would like, the size of your garden is a key factor in your options. You should also think about price, legal implications, and your neighbors when making your decision.