Creating a safe, enjoyable, and accessible playground space is a priority for school leaders. One of the most crucial aspects of playground design is selecting the right surfacing material.
The surface material not only impacts the safety and usability of the playground, but also introduces a cost of ownership long term. The choice of material is influenced by cost, durability, and compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines.
In this article, we’ll explore various playground surfacing options, including engineered wood fiber, bonded rubber, poured-in-place rubber, artificial turf, and rubber tiles. This will aid leadership in making an informed decision for your school.
Why Playground Surfacing Matters
The importance of playground surfacing cannot be overstated. It serves as a foundational element in ensuring the safety of children, providing shock absorption to reduce head injuries from falls.
Additionally, it influences the overall aesthetic and functionality of the playground space. With diverse options available, it’s essential to choose a surface that aligns with your budget, durability needs, and accessibility requirements.
Engineered Wood Fiber
Engineered wood fiber (EWF) is a popular choice among playground surfaces due to its affordability. Typically priced between $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot, it offers an economical solution for schools looking to cover a large area without exceeding their budget.
This price would not include any drainage improvements that may be needed. If your educational facility is located in a remote area far from the wood mills that manufacture the product, the freight costs could be a factor.
However, while EWF is budget-friendly, it requires regular maintenance, as it breaks down overtime (one to two years) and may need to be replenished frequently to maintain its protective qualities.
EWF creates a natural, attractive look and provides a relatively soft surface for children to play on. While it meets ADA accessibility standards when adequately installed and maintained, it can become non-compliant in areas because of “kickout” especially under swings and around slide exits and other high use areas. Regular maintenance is required to ensure its usability and compliance.
Bonded Rubber
Bonded rubber offers a mid-range pricing option, averaging between $11 to $15 per square foot. This would not include the subsurface that is needed under bonded rubber. Subsurface material can be compacted aggregate or concrete.
Bonded rubber consists of shredded rubber “mulch like” pieces that is mixed with a binding agent, then poured and screeded in place resulting in a continuous, seamless surface. Colors are limited and mostly muted earth tones.
This material boasts good durability, withstanding harsh weather conditions and moderate to heavy foot traffic, making it a longer-lasting choice than EWF.
The seamless nature of bonded rubber makes it an excellent option for ADA accessibility, allowing easy movement for wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Its consistent cushioning effect enhances safety, reducing the risk of head injuries from falls.
Poured-in-Place Rubber
Poured-in-place (PIP) rubber is at the higher end of the price spectrum, costing between $17 to $25 per square foot. Like all surfacing, pricing is influenced by the overall size of the pad as well as the proximity to installation crews.
Despite the initial investment, its durability makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run. PIP rubber is highly resilient and requires minimal maintenance, retaining its aesthetic appeal and functionality for many years.
Consisting of two layers, one is attenuated (spongey feel) and the top is small granules of EPDM or TPV with several colors to choose from. Added bonus – after a rain – the playground is still usable.
PIP rubber surfaces are customizable, allowing for creative designs and color schemes that can enhance the playground’s visual appeal.
More importantly, the PIP surface offers excellent ADA accessibility, providing a smooth, even surface that supports safe and easy movement for all users.
Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is another viable option, with prices ranging from $19 to $27 per square foot. It offers a visually appealing, grass-like surface that remains green and lush throughout the year. The durability of artificial turf is like PIP.
Just like the other surfacing offerings discussed here, some maintenance is needed. “Rebrushing” the infill material is required from time to time or blowing debris away that accumulates over time, like leaves, twigs, pine cones, acorns or other items specific to your geographical area.
Artificial turf provides a mildly firm, soft, cushioned surface that is comfortable for children to play on. While it offers a natural appearance, it is essential to ensure proper installation and drainage to prevent premature damage.
Playground Rubber Tile
Playground rubber tiles are modular units that provide a versatile surfacing solution. Priced between $19 and $27 per square foot, they offer a balance between cost and performance.
While some manufacturers will install tiles over compacted aggregate, I believe concrete is a must with tiles. Tiles are durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions like all the other unitary surfaces, maintaining their cushioning effect over time.
In hot and dry climates, the tiles do not perform as well long term (due to off gassing) unless they are underneath a large shade structure. In cooler climates, tiles tend to perform well.
Rubber tiles offer a stable, even surface that meets ADA requirements just like the rest of the surfaces listed here, allowing easy access for wheelchairs and strollers. They are available in various colors and designs, enabling customization to suit the church’s aesthetic preferences.
Making an Informed Decision
When choosing playground surfacing for schools several factors should be considered:
- Budget: Determine the available funds for the project and select a surface that fits within your financial constraints while meeting safety and aesthetic needs.
- Durability: Consider the climate and level of foot traffic the playground will endure. Invest in material that can withstand these conditions without constant repairs.
- Usability: Prioritize surfaces that provide a safe and enjoyable experience for children, reducing the likelihood of injuries.
- ADA Accessibility: Ensure the selected surface complies with ADA guidelines, promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all children.
Selecting the right playground surfacing is a critical decision for school leaders. Remember to weigh factors such as price, durability, usability, and accessibility to make the best choice for your school playground.
With the right surfacing, your playground can become a welcoming space where children can play, learn, and grow.
James Robertson is the general manager and co-owner of The PlayWell Group, a premier playground design consultant for schools, churches, daycares, apartments, parent/teacher organizations, towns and cities, www.playwellgroup.com.
