Swing Beams & Monkey Bars for Vinyl Playsets: A Complete Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Swing Beams and Monkey Bars

Designing a custom swing set? One of your choices is how you configure your swing beam and monkey bar setup. These elements add variety, promote physical activity, and boost the fun factor of any backyard playground.

In this guide, I’ll break down all your options for swing beams, extra-tall setups, monkey bars, yardsaver climbers, and extension arms—so you can choose the perfect combo for your space and your kids.

✅ Swing Beam Options: Standard & Custom

We offer five main swing beam configurations for vinyl swing sets. Here’s a quick overview:

🪁 1. Single Swing Beams – 2, 3, or 4 Positions

Best for: Most backyards and standard playsets

Single beams are the most common and versatile swing beam type. Each “position” holds one swing—so a 3-position swing beam holds three swings.

• Standard height: 96″ tall (for 5’ deck towers)
• Available sizes: 2-position, 3-position, 4-position
• Custom option: You can link additional sections to create a long beam with up to 12+ swings!

💡 Pro Tip: For schools, daycares, or big families, a custom swing beam with extra positions is a great choice.

🏗️ 2. Extra-High Swing Beams – For Higher Decks

Best for: Older children, taller towers, and faster swinging.

Want a longer, smoother swing arc? Go for an extra-high swing beam. These require taller towers to support the added height and swing chain length.

• For 5’ decks: Standard beam only (8’ tall)
• For 6’ decks: Extra-high beam at 109” tall
• For 7’ decks: Extra-high beam at 121” tall

Extra-tall beams offer a longer, more dynamic swing, but remain safe and manageable for younger children—they can swing only as high as they’re comfortable with.

🤸 3. Monkey Bars – Classic Climbing Fun

Best for: Children who love climbing

Monkey bars add upper-body strength and adventure to your swing set. Here’s what to know:

• Available only with 5’ deck towers
• Can hold swings below, but cannot be used for swinging and climbing at the same time

Monkey bars are a great choice for growing kids who want a variety of playground challenges in one set.

🪜 4. Yardsaver Climber Units – Best for Small Yards

Best for: Smaller yards or tall swing sets with monkey bars

Yardsaver units are a great option when you’re limited on space but want to include both monkey bars and a standard swing beam. They allow you to separate climbing and swinging areas, and they work well with taller towers or extra-high swing beams.

🔧 5. Extension Arms – Maximize Tight Spaces

Best for: Custom swing set layouts and small footprint yards

Extension arms allow you to add swings in tight or awkward spaces. Placement is limited based on your swing set’s design—but our design team can help you find the perfect setup!

📩 Need help with your layout? Contact our team and we’ll help you fit swings or monkey bars into your unique space.

🔁 Summary: Your Swing Beam & Monkey Bar Options at a Glance

🏡 Choosing the Right Setup for Your Backyard

Whether you’re designing a compact playset or building a full-scale playground, the right swing beam and monkey bar combination makes all the difference. Here’s how to decide:

• Small yard? → Go for yardsavers or extension arms
• Big family? → Try a custom-length single beam with 6+ swing positions
• Kids who love to climb? → Add monkey bars or a combo setup
• Want taller swings? → Choose extra-high beams with a 6’ or 7’ tower

📸 See It In Action

Need a visual? Check out real setups featuring swing beams and monkey bars on our Instagram and YouTube channels! See how other families customized their space and find inspiration for your own design.

🙋 Need Help Designing Your Swing Set?

We’re here to help! Our swing set design team can walk you through:

• Tower height recommendations
• Beam and monkey bar configurations
• Yard layout planning
• Budget-friendly options

📞 Contact us today to get started designing your dream vinyl swing set!