Playground Surfacing

We offer different types of playground surfaces to choose from and we provide additional information on each kind and answer your questions to guide your decision in selecting the right surface for your playground. After you have narrowed down your options or found the right playground surface you can order it directly on our website.

When it comes to choosing a playground surface for your playground area, there are several options to consider that are both safe and inclusive. These options are grouped into two major categories of surfacing: Natural or Synthetic.

Playground Covering is typically installed by hand to create a level area over the entire playground. Engineered wood fiber (EWF), playground sand, pea gravel and other bulk materials are considered Natural materials. While Natural material has the least expensive upfront costs and is easy to install, it also requires more frequent maintenance to stay within safety guidelines.

Rubber Mulch is a synthetic material and has a prolonged life and requires almost zero maintenance

In general both materials will compress at least 15 percent over time due to use and weathering, and might need to be replenished to ensure the surfacing remains at the appropriate depth to adequately cushion falls. Generally speaking, 6-10 inches of loose fill material is recommended under and around playground equipment. 

When choosing a playground surface for your playground, the right surfacing depends on several variables: initial purchasing cost, installation cost, ongoing maintenance cost, long-term durability, visual appearance and degree of safety.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Playground Surface:

• Is the surfacing soft enough and thick enough to lessen the impact of a child's fall?
• What age(s) is the playground designed for?
• What is the overall look and feel you are trying to achieve? Will the surfacing fit your design theme?
• How much time and money do you have available for ongoing maintenance and care?
• How much are whiling to spend both initially and over time?

One surface type may not fit all your needs. If that’s the case, you may want to consider incorporating multiple surfacing types into a single playground site. This can be more economical and promote sensory development through tactile transitions between different surfacing types. For example, rubber tiles around high traffic areas like slides and access points encourage play pathways to popular areas or transfer sites, while EWF can then be placed under high decks and adjacent open spaces.