Indoor vs. Indoor/Outdoor Playsets: What's the Difference?

Several Avenlur playsets come in two versions: an indoor set made from pine and an indoor/outdoor set made from treated cedar. Choose pine for a playroom, and cedar if the set will spend real time outside.

Indoor vs. indoor/outdoor at a glance

The indoor set: pine

Our indoor set is crafted from pine, a sturdy wood commonly used for indoor furniture and structures. However, pine is not as resistant to outdoor elements, and prolonged exposure to sunlight or moisture may lead to damage over time, so indoor sets should stay inside.

The indoor/outdoor set: treated cedar

Our indoor/outdoor sets are constructed from treated cedar. Cedar is known for its natural durability and weather-resistant properties, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture and playsets. Both sets are designed to look good and function well indoors, but the cedar set adds resilience for outdoor play.

As with any outdoor furniture and playsets, cedar will not feel as soft and smooth as the pine used in our indoor sets. It is still smooth and safe for your children in both settings.

Which should I choose?

Choose the indoor set if the playset will live in a playroom year round and you want the smoothest finish. Choose the indoor/outdoor set if you want backyard play or plan to move the set between inside and out. Compare both versions of our most popular sets: the indoor Magnolia and outdoor Magnolia, and the indoor Chestnut and outdoor Chestnut.

Playset maintenance

Your outdoor playset has been treated with a UV and water-resistant sealant for its protection. Every climate is different, so:

• Move the set indoors or into dry, covered storage during harsh weather, such as winter or extreme heat and humidity.
• Check the set before each play season, including bolts and fittings.
• If you notice fading or drying, sand the dry wood lightly and apply sealant, only as needed.

While cedar is durable, prolonged exposure to adverse weather can still cause damage over time, and weather-related damage is not covered under our warranty.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use an indoor playset outside?

We do not recommend it. Indoor sets are pine, which is not designed for sun or moisture, and weather damage is not covered by the warranty. Choose the indoor/outdoor version for backyard play.

Can the indoor/outdoor set stay outside all year?

It is built for everyday outdoor use, but we recommend storing it during harsh weather such as winter or extreme heat and humidity to keep the wood in good condition for years.

Can I use the indoor/outdoor set inside?

Yes. It works just as well indoors, which makes it easy to bring inside for winter.

Is cedar safe for children?

Yes. Our cedar is treated, sealed and finished smooth and safe for children. It is slightly coarser to the touch than our indoor pine.

Is weather damage covered by the warranty?

No. Our five-year warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, not damage from weather exposure.