When designing or renovating a playground, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the safety surfacing. Each year, more than 200,000 playground-related injuries are treated in the emergency department—falls account for 44% of them. The right surface helps reduce the risk of injury from falls and ensures children can play comfortably.
With various materials on the market, it can be challenging to decide which option is best. But don’t worry—we’re here to help! Let’s break down the pros and cons of the most common types of playground safety surfacing to help you make an informed choice.
Poured-in-Place Rubber
Poured-in-place rubber is a seamless rubber surface created by mixing and pouring two layers: a base of rubber granules and a top layer of colored EPDM rubber. Not only does poured rubber look great (you can choose from various colors and designs), but also, it’s low in maintenance, requiring occasional cleaning with no need to refill or rake.
Additionally, poured-in-place rubber offers a continuous, level surface, which is ideal for wheelchair access and other mobility devices and allows for easy maneuverability. As long as this surfacing is installed correctly through a trusted company like Cunningham Recreation, it can last many years without major repairs.
Of course, there are some considerations to keep in mind. First, poured-in-place rubber tends to be one of the more expensive surfaces to install and does require a firm base like poured concrete or compacted crushed stone, so it might not be practical if you’re working with a limited budget. Darker colors can get quite hot in direct sunlight, though you can alleviate this by choosing lighter colors or blending colors and/or installing shade structures over the surfacing. Last, there is a potential for cracks with poor installation or extreme weather changes.
Rubber Mulch
Rubber mulch is a classic surfacing material, featuring shredded or nugget-like rubber pieces (often made from recycled tires) that create a loose-fill surface. It offers good fall protection when maintained at the recommended depth, which is 4-6 inches or more, according to the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM).
Rubber mulch is also an eco-friendly option, providing that the rubber is sourced from old tires. For playgrounds that are designed to be environmentally friendly, this can be a huge perk. Additionally, rubber mulch does not decompose, so it lasts longer than engineered wood fiber (EWF), more commonly known as wood mulch for playgrounds. It offers good water drainage, reducing mud and puddles. Overall, this is an affordable and practical option for playgrounds.
The downsides? While rubber mulch is typically lower than poured rubber, it’s still more costly than the alternative loose fill material like wood fiber. It’s also extremely important that the mulch is maintained to ensure even coverage and recommended depth. Ruber loose fill safety surfacing is easily displaced and pieces can scatter outside the playground area, so plan on regular sweeping and raking. Another concern is that rubber can become hot in direct sunlight, but this can be reduced by properly shading your playground.
Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF)
Engineered wood fiber refers to specially processed wood chips designed to meet playground safety standards. It has a natural aesthetic, giving a rustic, woodsy feel to outdoor playgrounds. Plus, it blends well with outdoor environments, which is a selling point for nature-inspired playgrounds. EWF is often more cost-effective than rubber-based surfacing options, and it’s simple to spread and refill as needed.
Similar to rubber mulch, EWF requires regular raking to maintain a consistent depth, and it will need topping off over time. Wood fiber can also degrade or become compacted, reducing its cushioning effect. It’s also possible for organic materials to attract insects and develop mold (in damp conditions), and wheelchairs and strollers may have difficulty if the surface is uneven. There are definitely limitations to EWF, but it can be a practical pick if you’re on a budget.
Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is synthetic grass with a padded underlayer designed for playgrounds. One of the main benefits to this material is its attractive appearance, which mimics natural grass year-round. And—you don’t have to worry about mowing, water, or fertilizing! Furthermore, the underlayment provides an even cushion across the playground, and most turf systems allow water to pass through, preventing puddles.
The main drawback to artificial turf is its cost–it’s one of the more expensive surfacing options. Turf can also become hot in the sun, though you can look for varieties with cooling technology. If you’re focusing on building a sustainable playground, turf may not be the best choice, as it will eventually end up in a landfill (it’s not biodegradable). Last, heavy use can lead to flattening or damage that may require repair or replacement.
Interlocking Rubber Tiles
Interlocking rubber tiles are pre-manufactured rubber tiles that connect, creating a flat, cushioned surface. The benefits are that they are easy to install and repair (damaged sections can be replaced without disturbing the entire surface), they create a tidy and modular look, and they help prevent slips and falls. Like poured-in-place rubber, you can also choose various colors and designs to give your playground that “wow” factor.
Unfortunately, rubber tiles can shift or lift, creating tripping hazards if they are not installed properly. It’s also important that the tiles sit on a firm, level surface, so that they can deliver the best performance. Similar to poured-in-place rubber, rubber tiles can also be more expensive to purchase and install, and they can become warm under intense sunlight.
Safety Surfacing for Playgrounds
No single surfacing solution is perfect for every playground—each material has strengths and weaknesses. By considering factors such as cost, maintenance, durability, appearance, and accessibility needs, you can select the option that best meets the safety requirements of your playground. If you’re unsure which choice aligns with your vision and budget, consult Cunningham Recreation. We can help you navigate safety standards and make the most appropriate decision.
