There are several options for playground safety surfaces and all of them have their advantages or disadvantages as I have explained already in other posts in this blog. Sometimes a careful mix of several of them may be the most suitable solution for a project.
As you know from my previous posts, wet pour is my preferred option, whether the one we sell at CONICA based on EPDM rubber granules or other wetpour options that we are not selling but are good alternatives as rubber TPV, coated SBR or Cork.
However, in addition to wet pour there are other techniques that may be a reasonably good and suitable solution depending on the play equipment, budget and other project requirements.
Rubber tiles
They are a low-cost option and are easy to install but some regular maintenance is needed to avoid that contractions and elongations generate sepparations, or deformations that generate stumbling or weed growth at the joints. Not all are the same quality, so you can find big differences on its life span and performance. Sub-base is somewhat relevant for a good performance and there are several colour options and even graphics to improve play value.
Artificial grass
This surfacing need usually be installed on flat areas and it has a nice natural appearance with low cost and low maintenance. There are not a lot of colour options and to get the needed Critical Fall Height you have to install underneath some SBR or foam base layer. There are very different levels of quality and price. On sunny areas the temperature of the surface may be quite hot. Some sand load may be needed to improve life span and reduce surface temperature and static electricity.
Rubber mulch
Bonded rubber mulch adds a very natural look to the playground. Is made from recycled tyres coated on a polyurethane coloured binder. Good quality products must be non-staining, with very low level of PAH and odour free. The type we manufacture at CONICA is a mix of shreds and granules with a high quality coating. If you have no budget for a wet pour rubber granules this would be my second best option. Lifespan is not as long but price is more affordable. If SBR from tyres is not allowed in your Country then you must disregard this option.
Bark and Wood chips
An easy to install. low cost, natural and biodegradable product that has also a good play value. It must be maintained and must be refilled from time to time and specially after heavy storms in areas with some slope, what makes maintenance cost higher. Some of them are treated to avoid insect or moss attacks but chemicals used must be suitable for avoiding any risk on children.
Sand, gravel and stones
All these loose fill materials are a low-cost solution at installation time, but they move and need therefore a frequent maintenance and re-filling to avoid loosing the initial Critical Fall Height (CFH). They also have a great play value for children.
Take care.
Rubberman Blog 