The tote slide is a popular backyard playground slide that many families enjoy. When considering purchasing a tote slide, one of the first questions is often “How much does it cost?”. The price of a tote slide can vary depending on the size, materials, brand, and any special features. Generally speaking, a basic tote slide will cost between $100 and $500. Larger and more elaborate tote slides with extras like rock climbing walls can cost $1000 or more. There are many factors to consider when determining the price of a specific tote slide.
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Tote Slide Sizes
One of the biggest factors affecting the price of a tote slide is the size. Tote slides come in a range of heights, lengths, and widths. Smaller tote slides designed for toddlers and preschoolers often measure around 4-5 feet tall and 5-6 feet long. These smaller sizes typically cost between $100-$300.
Medium sized tote slides for elementary aged children are often 6-8 feet tall and 8-12 feet long. The medium size usually costs between $200-$400.
Larger tote slides sized for pre-teens, teens, and adults measure 8-12 feet tall and 10-20 feet long. These extra large tote slides cost between $300-$500 for a basic model.
Here is a table comparing different tote slide sizes and average prices:
| Tote Slide Size | Height | Length | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 4-5 feet | 5-6 feet | $100-$300 |
| Medium | 6-8 feet | 8-12 feet | $200-$400 |
| Large | 8-12 feet | 10-20 feet | $300-$500 |
As you can see, the slide length, height, and overall footprint have a direct correlation to the price. Bigger tote slides cost more than smaller ones.
Tote Slide Materials
The most common material used to construct tote slides is polyethylene plastic. Polyethylene is durable, weather resistant, and smooth for sliding. Higher density polyethylene plastic is more expensive but also more rigid and supportive. Lower density polyethylene is cheaper but more prone to flexing. The type of polyethylene plastic impacts the price.
Other material options like stainless steel, powder coated steel, and aluminum will also affect the overall cost. Metal tote slides are generally more expensive than polyethylene plastic ones. However, metal is very sturdy and often lasts longer than plastic.
The slide chute material is also a factor. Some have a polyethylene chute, while others use a more slippery material like ABS plastic. Seamless chutes are smoother for sliding but also pricier.
Safety tested materials certified for playground use are ideal but come at a higher cost. Cheaper materials can potentially have more hazards.
Tote Slide Brands
Popular brand names for tote slides include Backyard Discovery, Gorilla Playsets, Lifetime, Swing-N-Slide, and more. Brand name slides are typically higher in price than generic unbranded slide models.
Backyard Discovery is known for making innovatively designed slides at premium price points. Gorilla Playsets are very rugged and durable but more expensive. Lifetime slides are mid-priced with good warranties. Swing-N-Slide makes classic affordable slides.
There are also store brands from retailers like Walmart, Home Depot, and Lowes that offer generic slides at lower price points. These bargain slides work well for cost-conscious shoppers, but may be lacking in terms of materials, warranty, etc. You get what you pay for.
Branded slides that pass rigorous safety tests and are known for quality craftsmanship will be at the top end of the price spectrum. Generic store brand slides will be at the bottom end.
Tote Slide Special Features
Basic tote slides are relatively inexpensive. But slides that incorporate special features, add-ons, and upgrades can increase the price significantly. Some popular additions that enhance a tote slide and the play value include:
– Built-in rock climbing walls – these allow kids to climb up the slide and increase the play possibilities. Rock walls add challenge and fun but also extra cost.
– Roof coverings – a roof canopy provides shade and protection from the elements. It also adds a playhouse dimension. But roofs can double the price or more.
– Fireman’s pole – a pole allows kids to climb up and slide down quickly. But installing a pole requires more materials and construction.
– Attached decks – built-in decks around the slide give more play space at the top and bottom. But decks require additional lumber, railings, etc.
– Monkey bars – adding monkey bar attachments on a swing set combo can increase the activities, but also the manufacturing complexity and price.
– Stairs – instead of needing to climb a ladder, stairs with railings allow for easier access. But stairs use more materials and space.
– Tube slides – tubular shaped slides fully enclose riders for a thrilling downhill ride. But tube slides require more plastic and are challenging to produce.
The more upgrades and enhancements added to a tote slide, the higher the final cost will be. Basic slides are most affordable, while deluxe models with lots of bells and whistles will be priciest. Prioritize the features that will get used and enjoyment over unnecessary extras.
Where to Buy Tote Slides
The retailer you purchase your tote slide from can impact the price as well. Big box stores like Walmart and Home Depot often have the lowest prices. But warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club can have deals on premium brands too. Amazon and other online retailers will showcase a wide range of brands and prices.
Specialty retailers like swing set stores or backyard playset dealers can offer expertise and installation services for an added fee. Local classified ads sometimes have good deals on used tote slides also.
Comparing prices between multiple retailers is wise to find the best deal. Remember to factor in any shipping, delivery, or installation fees too. Sometimes a slide that appears cheaper upfront costs more after fees.
Buying directly from the manufacturer cuts out the retailer markup and can save money if combined with free shipping promotions. But purchasing, shipping, and installing a slide directly takes more effort.
Factors That Increase Tote Slide Costs
While it’s possible to find an inexpensive slide, certain factors will increase the price you end up paying. Be aware of these extra costs:
– Larger sizing – longer, taller, and wider slides cost more.
– Heavy duty materials like metal – plastic is cheaper for slides.
– Brand name vs generic – brand name slides command higher prices.
– Added features like roofs, stairs, rock walls – more upgrades mean more expense.
– Shipping fees – free shipping deals can save money.
– Assembly and installation services – DIY is cheapest but professional install costs more.
– Sales tax – tax adds to the final total.
– Accessories like ladders or debris covers – extras boost the bill.
When the size gets bigger, the features pile up, and the shipping/taxes/fees accrue, the slide price inflates quickly. Carefully consider needs vs wants to avoid overspending.
Saving Money on Tote Slides
For budget-conscious shoppers, here are some tips to save money on a tote slide purchase:
– Choose smaller sizing appropriate for your kids’ ages and backyard space.
– Select basic polyethylene plastic over pricier metal materials.
– Opt for an unbranded generic store brand slide over big name brands.
– Skip unneeded upgrades like enclosures, rock walls, etc. Stick to basics.
– Take advantage of sales, promos, and clearance pricing when available.
– Check Craigslist and Facebook for used and resale slide deals.
– Provide your own ladder to avoid add-on costs.
– Assemble, deliver, and install the slide yourself rather than paying fees.
– Use discounted gift cards or credit card rewards to offset the price.
– Split costs with neighborhood families by sharing a slide.
With smart comparison shopping, sticking to necessities, and DIY labor, it’s possible to save quite a bit on a backyard tote slide.
Average Cost of Tote Slides by Size
Here is an overview of typical price ranges for various sized tote slides:
Small slide – 4 to 5 feet tall, 5 to 6 feet long: $100 to $300
Medium slide – 6 to 8 feet tall, 8 to 10 feet long: $200 to $400
Large slide – 8 to 10 feet tall, 10 to 15 feet long: $300 to $500
Extra large slide – 10 to 12 feet tall, 15 to 20 feet long: $400 to $800
These are general estimates only based on average list prices. Actual costs can vary based on brands, materials, features, sales, and more. But this gives a rough idea of expected tote slide pricing based primarily on dimensions. The bigger the slide, the bigger the price tag.
Conclusion
In the backyard playground slide market, bigger is better, but also more expensive. To get a good value, carefully assess your needs, budget, and backyard space when selecting a tote slide. While sizes under $300 are available, larger luxury slides can cost up to $1000 or more. Compare options to find a safe, durable slide that provides smiles for years at a price you can afford. Properly maintaining your slide will also extend its usable lifespan. With smart shopping, you can slide into summer with a new tote slide!