When considering adding a playset to the backyard, the importance of surfacing for your children’s safety cannot be overstated. In the case of a fall, we want the appropriate surfacing to reduce the impact and keep our children safe from injury.
Today’s article will examine the best materials to use under a swing set, enabling us to select the right one and create a safe play area for our children.
Why Is Safety Surfacing Important?
Surfacing plays a crucial role in children’s safety when playing in the backyard. Falls are the most common cause of injuries in playgrounds, and with proper surfacing, we can reduce the risk of serious injuries by providing a cushioned landing that minimizes impact.
Finally, the presence of surfacing under a swingset eliminates the possibility of your grass being trampled and ruined. Safety surfacing removes the need for regular lawn maintenance in that area.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Swingset Surface
Impact Absorption:
Since the primary purpose of surfacing is to protect against falls, prioritizing impact absorption is essential. Look for surfaces that meet safety standards, have adequate cushioning, and provide good shock absorption. For example, ensure that your option meets the ASTM standard for impact attenuation.
Maintenance Needs:
Consider the level of maintenance required to meet your needs. For example, wood chips must be raked and replenished regularly to maintain their safety. Rubber, on the other hand, is easier to maintain, requiring raking when necessary for mulch dispersement.
Cost and Longevity:
When purchasing a surface, cost is an important consideration. Wood mulch is less expensive than rubber, but it requires more maintenance. Rubber has a higher initial cost but a longer lifespan.
Aesthetic Appeal:
While not as important as safety, aesthetics can make a space more inviting and appealing. Depending on the design of your home, either rubber mulch or wood mulch can improve the appearance of your backyard. Wood mulch is ideal for a natural look, while rubber mulch can add vibrancy and a modern touch.
Best Material to Put Under a Swingset
Now, what is the best material to put under a swingset?
Engineered Wood Fiber Playground Mulch
An engineered wood fiber playground mulch is a natural, loose-fill material specifically designed for playgrounds. This option is all-natural, chemical-free, and eco-friendly, making it an excellent choice for individuals who value the environment and the natural aspects of the materials.
Wood fiber mulch is also reasonably priced and widely available, meeting all safety standards, including IPEMA certification and ASTM compliance.
However, wood mulch requires occasional replenishment and can shift over time, necessitating raking.
Rubber Nugget Playground Mulch
Rubber nugget mulch is a loose-fill material made entirely from recycled materials. It’s one of the longest-lasting safety surfacing options available. Rubber nugget mulch meets high safety standards, providing superior shock absorption and fall protection.
The material also does not decompose, so it lasts significantly longer than wood mulch. In terms of design, this option is available in a variety of colors to complement your aesthetic backyard goals.
Our rubber mulch at Bear Playgrounds is IPEMA-certified and meets ASTM guidelines. This rubber has been refined over the past 20 years to ensure a clean and safe play surface. It is made in the USA from 100% recycled rubber.
What to Avoid When Choosing a Swingset Surface
When choosing a swing set surface, avoid using regular landscaping mulch, grass, gravel, sand, or bare ground. While some of these materials may appear soft and appealing enough to blend in with the garden, they are not intended for a play area and, thus, do not provide adequate protection.
Take grass as an example. Despite its softness, it lacks the necessary depth and shock absorption to protect against falls.
Why Choose Bear Playgrounds for Your Safety Surfacing Needs?
When it comes to our family, we certainly want to provide the best for them. That’s why we want you to select a swing set surface with the best safety features so that you and your children can both enjoy playing.
Bear Playgrounds is family-owned and operated, so we understand these critical factors. We offer expert advice on the best materials for your swing set, taking into account all essential aspects, such as product quality and safety, to ensure it meets the highest safety standards.
Our team is ready to assist you, so please don’t hesitate to contact us today!
