A playground surface is one of the most important components of a safe and enjoyable outdoor space. It is what absorbs the impact from falls and other activities and provides traction to prevent injury when children fall. It also offers the ability to add color, design and texture to a play surface area that can be used for different types of sensory experiences. Ultimately, the type of surface material chosen will impact the cost, maintenance and accessibility of a playground.
A number of different surfacing options exist, including loose-fill, unitary and synthetic surfaces. Loose-fill materials include rubber mulch, engineered wood fiber (EWF), sand and pea gravel. These options tend to have lower upfront costs but require more frequent maintenance to stay within safety and ADA guidelines.
EWF is a popular loose-fill option because it is affordable, safe and offers good cushioning. It is also environmentally friendly and creates a natural look that is appealing to children. However, like other loose-fill material it is subject to displacement and must be raked and replenished regularly in high use areas such as underneath swings and at the base of slides.
Sand is another common option because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. However, it can conceal sharp objects, animal waste and other debris that pose hazards to children. It also requires constant raking and inspection to ensure the depth of the material is sufficient for safe falls. It is also not considered ADA-compliant and can be tracked into homes on children’s clothing, hair and shoes.
Synthetic turf is a more expensive option that is considered an accessible material because it doesn’t conceal any objects that could cause injuries. It is not as durable as other types of surfacing, but it is resistant to weathering and can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer. The material can create static electricity, but an anti-static solution is available to mitigate this issue.
Poured-in-place and bond-in-place rubber and interlocking resilient tiles are unitary surfacing materials that provide excellent shock absorption. They are more expensive than loose-fill surfacing but have less of a maintenance burden and can be customized with shapes, colors and textures to make the playground more visually appealing.
While poured-in-place and bond-in-place surface materials are extremely safe, they have high up-front installation costs. Some of these materials are not ADA-compliant and may be unsuitable for people who use mobility devices or wheelchairs, but others are very affordable and offer great durability and safety. Some poured-in-place or bond-in-place surfaces can even be heated to create a safer, more comfortable playing environment. Always ask for Gmax and HIC test results and certification documents when considering a new playground surface. These documents will help you determine if a product is the right fit for your facility. A quality product should pass these tests with flying colors. This will allow you to feel confident that your playground is a safe and welcoming place for all children.