Outdoor play spaces and recreation spaces must be safe. The correct softfall surfacing can be crucial in allowing these areas to remain secure for all. In this article, you can read about different kinds of softfall surfacing materials and their benefits.
Understanding Softfall Surfacing
Softfall surfacing is the material used to cover the ground in a playground, park, or similar areas to provide cushioning. That cushioning provides a layer of protection from impact, making it less likely that you will get injured. Effective Protection and Visual Appearance The material you want to use for the ball mill will reflect on the protection, appearance, and maintenance.
Rubber Mulch
Many outdoor spaces opt for rubber mulch. This material is shock-absorbent and made of recycled rubber. It has a pleasing soft texture that contrasts with other materials, and it is available in multiple colours.
Rubber mulch is very durable and long-lasting, which is one of its primary benefits. It is resistant to the elements and will not rot, so you have a long-lasting surface. Additionally, it requires minimal maintenance, which makes it economical in the long run.
Engineered Wood Fibre
Engineered wood fibre provides a natural look that blends well with nature and the outdoors. Laminate flooring is a synthetic material made of compressed wood fibres that are cushioned.
One of the main reasons engineered wood fibre is cost-effective is that it is cheaper than most other options. This makes it attractive to cost-sensitive projects. The material is even made from biodegradable, eco-friendly wood.
Nevertheless, it needs to be regularly maintained to achieve cushioning. It will need a little frequent attention—raking and topping up—to keep it looking and performing at its best.
Poured-in-Place Rubber
Poured-in-place rubber is an adaptable choice, and can be contoured to any space. It is a two-layer system consisting of a durable base (shock absorber) and a thinner top layer which serves as the wear surface. Not only does the seamless finish look great, but it also reduces trip hazards.
Poured-in-place rubber has one main advantage: Its flexibility. It’s customizable to any design possible, including patterns, logos, etc. This versatility makes it a popular option for creative playground designs.
Maintenance is as simple as cleaning it from time to time to ensure it looks and works its best. This long lifespan and high level of customisation make the higher upfront cost worthwhile.
Artificial Grass
Everyone loves the natural feel and experience of grass, but with artificial grass, you can have the appearance of natural grass without the effort. A recommended surface with the best cushion for play areas. This substance is usually is installed over a shock pad for extra safety.
But one prime benefit of artificial grass is low maintenance. Instead, it saves money on upkeep since watering, mowing, and fertilising aren’t required. It remains green throughout the year and has high aesthetic value in every space.
On the other hand, artificial grass can withstand sunlight but can get warm. This can be combated by using light colours or shading solutions!
Bonded Rubber
Bonded rubber is rubber that has been shredded and then combined in pieces tied down with a polyurethane base. It is a solid and shiny material that forms continuous and seamless surfaces.
Bonded rubber has one primary advantage: longevity. It is durable and resistant to heavy use and bad weather, which makes it advantageous for areas with high traffic. It is permeable, which means water can drain through it, reducing puddles and slips.
Bonded rubber is easier to install than poured-in-place as well and typically more cost effective but can also achieve that seamless finish.
Sand
Sand has been a playground surface staple for years. Its natural look makes it a standard choice in many outdoor environments. Sand softens the landing and reduces trauma.
Sand also has the great advantage of being cheap. First off it is easily available to download and install. It also fosters imaginative play as children can dig and build with it.
However, sand requires regular maintenance. This requires regular raking to preserve it as well as prevent it from going shallow, and it can spread beyond the perimeter.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is made up of small smooth stones that work great at creating a solid surface. Some prefer it for its natural appearance and for blending into the surroundings.
One of the major benefits of pea gravel is its ability to drain. It allows easy passage of water and minimises puddles. Installation is also relatively cheap and simple.
On the downside, pea gravel can migrate with time and will need to be levelled occasionally. Be mindful that this is a toy for very young children, as it can have small stones that can be swallowed.
Conclusion
There is more than one softfall surfacing material (sand, rubber mulch, softfall mats, and poured rubber) and each has advantages and disadvantages in terms of safety, cost, appearance and maintenance. Every material has its own advantages, enabling to meet specific needs.
For great durability, rubber mulch and poured-in-place rubber offer long-lasting and customizable options, while engineered wood fibre and sand provide a natural look. Artificial grass and bonded rubber offer low-maintenance modern surfaces.
With knowledge of the specific advantages provided by each material, those who make the decisions can determine which type of softfall surfacing is ideal for their outdoor areas to ensure all users can be both safe and enjoy outlined play areas and spaces.
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