Central Texas parents know the challenge: playground equipment becomes too hot for kids to comfortably use during the region's long stretches of hot, sunny weather. 

Texas Backyard Structures, a Hutto-based outdoor structures company, is addressing that problem with a new line of vinyl sets this fall designed for extreme heat so families can comfortably spend time together outside. 

Manufactured in Arizona, where temperatures regularly reach 120 degrees, the RuffHouse vinyl playsets feature proprietary cooling technology and integrated misting systems designed to keep surfaces no more than 85 degrees to the touch. 

Large white wooden backyard playset with blue spiral slide, climbing walls, and lit towers at dusk.

The innovative playsets are the latest addition to the company's growing lineup of backyard products and reflect its ongoing commitment to quality, durability and family-focused design.

What types of structures does Texas Backyard Structures make and sell?

For nearly three decades, Texas Backyard Structures has helped Central Texas residents and businesses create outdoor spaces designed for both function and enjoyment. 

The business’s story begins in 1997 with founder Sam Smucker, who brought his Amish heritage and craftsmanship traditions from Pennsylvania to Central Texas and opened a shop as a shed manufacturer.

Today, Texas Backyard Structures serves both residential and commercial customers. In addition to its high-end, premier wooden and vinyl playsets, the business sells and installs:

Texas Backyard Structures also helps churches, schools, cities, apartment communities and homeowners associations create outdoor spaces built for everyday use. Its commercial work goes beyond the playground structure itself: the team can coordinate equipment, safety surfacing, shade structures, pavilions, fencing and site amenities as part of one project. 

Exploded diagram of outdoor amenity package showing shade canopy, playground, safety surfacing, concrete base, with scope index.

From an initial site visit through installation, the team works with each organization to create a space that fits its users, property and budget.

Texas Backyard Structures’ work is all over town, said owners Karla and Christian Williamson. Their commitment to the business’s foundation has built that community trust.

“The Amish are very family-oriented. They're very community-driven, and they take really good care of the community and one another, and I think that plays into our customer service,” said Karla Williamson, who is the daughter of Sam Smucker. “Our product is consistent, and when you have consistency, it builds trust because people know what they're getting.”

Child on a swing in a backyard playset at night, with blue slide, trapeze bar, and two towers.

How are Texas Backyard Structures products made to last?

Texas Backyard Structures products are built for durability and long-term use. Christian Williamson said some products are still sourced from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, home to a large Amish community and where the Williamsons have family ties and vendor relationships.

The team’s emphasis on craftsmanship is especially evident in its backyard playsets, which can feature various themes—including castles, ships and vehicles—and play elements such as swings, slides and climbing walls. 

Playground with slides under a dark shade canopy, surrounded by wood chips near a metal building.

They are designed to withstand years of family use and are often passed down, relocated to new homes and enjoyed by multiple generations of children.

The Williamsons recall one customer who had their Texas Backyard Structures playset moved three times over the course of 10 years, and the set had not wobbled or come close to falling apart in all the play it had seen. 

How can customers find the right backyard structure for them?

Customers can begin the process by visiting the Texas Backyard Structures outdoor showroom at 108 Benelli Drive, Hutto, to explore sheds, pavilions, trampolines and playsets in person. 

The team can answer questions and help customers find the right structure for their preferences, budget and lifestyle. Including the Williamsons, many team members have young kids and can make informed recommendations based on safety and their own experiences. 

White playhouse-style swing set with black slide, swings, and net seat on a grassy fenced yard.

The business also offers free site evaluations to help customers visualize how a structure or playground will fit within their space.

“A lot of people want to get a great deal online, but what happens is you miss the part of somebody guiding you through ordering, customizing, building and receiving a product,” Karla Williamson said. “We handle all the details, and we can install it for you. It's just a personable experience.”

Local roots, lasting quality

As a locally owned business, Texas Backyard Structures takes pride in serving the same communities where its team members live, work and raise their families. That local connection creates a sense of accountability and trust when investing in outdoor structures designed to last for years.

For the Williamsons, a finished project is more than a product delivered. It is a place where families gather, children play and communities spend time together. That purpose has guided Texas Backyard Structures since Sam Smucker founded the business in 1997, and it continues to shape how the team serves customers today.

White backyard playset with gray slides, spiral tube, and swings on artificial grass near trees.

Visit the outdoor showroom to explore playsets, sheds, pavilions and more from Texas Backyard Structures, or contact the team to discuss a residential or commercial project:

What is the new playset line from Texas Backyard Structures?

The RuffHouse vinyl playset line features a new vinyl playground system designed for hot climates. Manufactured in Arizona, the playsets feature proprietary cooling technology and integrated misting systems that help keep surfaces cooler to the touch, allowing children to play more comfortably during Central Texas summers.

What products and services does Texas Backyard Structures offer?

Texas Backyard Structures offers residential and commercial outdoor solutions, including wooden and vinyl playsets, storage sheds, pergolas, gazebos, pavilions, trampolines and metal carports. The company also designs and installs commercial playgrounds for schools, churches, parks, apartment communities and other organizations.

What makes Texas Backyard Structures playsets and outdoor structures different?

Founded on Amish craftsmanship traditions, Texas Backyard Structures emphasizes quality, consistency and durability. Many of its products are built to withstand years of use, with some playsets remaining sturdy enough to be relocated and enjoyed by multiple generations of families.

How can customers get started with Texas Backyard Structures?

Customers can visit the company's outdoor showroom in Hutto to explore products in person, discuss their goals with the team and receive personalized recommendations. Texas Backyard Structures also offers free site evaluations to help homeowners and organizations determine the best solution for their space and budget.