Playground Surface Materials

Sponsored by:

Pacific Outdoor Products

PO Box 50, Maple Valley, WA 98038
Phone: 425 432 6000   

For over 30 years Pacific Outdoor Products has been manufacturing commercial playground equipment and site furnishings in Maple Valley, Washington. Child’s play is our priority.

• Grass or sod
  Natural grass does not offer enough protection from most playground accidents. Grass also requires regular maintenance and does not usually hold up well to foot traffic. For better protection, select a product that is durable and has been designed to protect children in case of a fall.
• Artificial turf or synthetic grass
  A thick padding underneath is needed in order to provide adequate protection. Check the brand to make sure it offers good water drainage, holds up under sun exposure, and is soft to the touch.
• Pea gravel
  To be effective, pea gravel should be about at least 5 inches thick. This not the best choice for playgrounds as it can be easily displaced, it settles into the ground and needs to be replenished often, and small stones can cause hazards to small children.
• Mulch
  Although a thick layer of mulch may provide some protection for playground surfaces, this is not an advisable choice as the wood can cause splinters and will decompose quickly.
• Wood fiber
  This product has a similar look as natural wood chips. It can decompose slightly and requires some raking, but for use under a playground, it is a much better choice than natural wood.
• Sand
  If using sand as a playground-cushioning surface, understand that it may be a breeding ground for germs as pets and other animals like to use the area to bury their feces. It is advisable that the area be covered with plastic when not in use.
• Shredded rubber
  Uses recycled rubber (usually from old tires.) The problem with using shredded rubber as a playground surface is that it can become hot. In the winter, cold temperatures may make it harder than normal.
• Bonded rubber
  This is shredded rubber that has been glued together with polyurethane to create a seamless surface.
• Poured rubber
  This also binds together recycled rubber granules, but the rubber pieces are smaller in size, thus creating a smoother surface.
• Vulcanized thermoplastic
  Here the recycle rubber pieces are bonded together with plastic to create a soft rubbery substance that is better resistant to heat absorption.
• Rubber mats
  The problem with using individual rubber mats under playground equipment is that they tend to shift if not secured to the floor and, because they are a standard shape, may not be able to cover all areas (such as around poles.)
• Interlocking rubber tile
  These may be used indoors on a flat surface. The individual sections are installed with an adhesive and need to be a particular thickness, depending on the type of impact protection required.