Choosing the Best Playground Surface
When choosing the best playground surface, consider the con and pros of each one so that you can choose the best playground surface. Here are a number of things you need to consider.
Safety. In this factor, ask yourself. What is going to protect your kids whenever they fall down? Is the ground a hazard in case of a shock?
Maintenance. Consider the time you have to spend caring for the surface cover. Choose a material with low maintenance cost.
Appearance. Choose a ground cover that will fit your home and your landscape to make it more attractive.
Accessibility. Use a ground cover that will make the playground to be accessed easily by even people with disability.
Budget. Consider the amount of money you are willing to spend on the playground surface.
As you consider the above
factors, weigh the cons and pros of the following surfaces for your backyard
and select the best.
Recycled Rubber
In the past few years,
rubber has become popular among many people in the world. These recycled rubber pieces are made from
old tires. Playground rubber flooring prevents weed in your playground. It is very
soft to protect kids whenever they fall. For it
to give good results, it should be about 20 inches in depth.
On the otherhand, you should be aware that the
recycled rubber can catch fire releasing poisonous fumes. In case it happens, remove the affectedrubbers immediatelybefore permitting your kids
to go back to the playground.
Solid Rubber
if you do not want to use
the recycled rubber, use this option. This type of surface is beneficial
because it is slip resistant and it lasts for a longer period of time. It is,
therefore, the best playground surface for the kids. You can access it with a wheelchair and it is soft in case a kid falls.
This type of surface is
environmentally unfriendly as compared to other types of surfaces.However, they are also very expensive options
for the playground surface.
Grass
This type of surface adds a
great look to your playground. The greatest disadvantage of this type of surface is that it requires
funds to maintain. You must water it regularly andtreat it
regularly.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is the cheapest
option. It fits well with most garden décor and it is environmentally friendly.
However, it can harm your kids if they
fall. For a ten-foot high playground
structure, the sand should be 15 inches deep.
In summary, select the best
surface for your playground based on accessibility, maintenance cost, visual
appeal, your budget and the level of safety.
Comments