The number of routes through it.

One way up and one way down forces single file.

A queue forms at the ladder and the deck empties.

Three ways up keeps children circulating.

Links between towers multiply the routes again.

Ask for routes, not for a component count.

By how many children it holds at once.

Manufacturers publish a design figure.

It assumes children moving rather than queuing.

Bottlenecks reduce the real number sharply.

Compare the figure against expected peak use.

A school break is the demanding case.

It sets the free height of fall.

That sets the surfacing specification.

The surfaced zone spreads outward with it.

Surfacing is often the larger installed cost.

Lowering the top deck can change the whole band.

Test that before fixing the configuration.

Usually not, and sites regret trying.

Toddlers and older children move at different speeds.

Shared equipment intimidates the younger group.

It bores the older one.

Two smaller structures often outperform one large one.

Separate the age zones in the layout.

It does if the site expects to extend.

Posts, clamps and decks must still be sold later.

That is a question about the supplier.

Discontinued ranges force whole replacement.

Ask how long the range has been in production.

Ask what happens when a component is withdrawn.

Site conditions decide more than preference.

Timber suits natural settings and moves with moisture.

Steel is stable and needs coating maintained.

Recycled plastic resists rot and vandalism.

The ground line is where all three are tested.

Ask how each is protected at that point.

Routine visual checks plus a periodic detailed one.

Fixings and moving parts are the visual items.

Structural connections need the deeper inspection.

Surfacing condition is checked at the same time.

Frequency follows usage rather than the calendar.

Records are usually required by insurers.