Safety surfacing is an important element of any Playground Surfaces. It protects kids from serious injuries, and helps prevent minor falls from turning into severe ones. There are a number of different options for playground surfaces, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. When selecting a playground surface, you should always consider a range of factors, including the cost of installation and maintenance, the durability of the material, its shock absorption, and whether it meets the requirements for your highest fall height.
Unitary surfaces are a modern alternative to traditional loose-fill surfacing materials. They are more durable, require less maintenance, and are easy to install. They also provide a more seamless surface to reduce trip-and-fall risks. Some popular unitary surfaces include rubber tiles, artificial turf, and PIP. Unitary surface materials can be incorporated into various shapes and colors to create a unified look and provide different areas for different types of activities.
A Deep Dive into Poured-in-Place Rubber Playground Surfaces
Loose-fill surfacing is another popular choice for playgrounds. It’s important to select a material that is safe and suitable for your needs, especially if you have a limited budget and/or maintenance staff. Some common loose-fill materials for playgrounds include sand, engineered wood fiber, and recycled rubber mulch. These materials are safe and ADA-compliant if raked regularly, but they can become dangerous if not maintained properly.
Playground Surfaces is the most durable, safest, and lowest maintenance option. It is a 2-layer system that includes a shock-absorbing layer of recycled rubber buffings and a top finish layer of granular particles all mixed with a binder to create a smooth, consistent surface that ages well. It’s the best option for ADA compliance because it absorbs falls of the highest height and allows wheelchairs to roll easily over it.