Importance of Picking the Right Playground Installer

A fully exposed playground can have detrimental effects on all those who use the area.

Playgrounds should be fun for children to learn and grow through physical activity. Without proper planning and safety provisions, however, they can also become hazardous. Utilizing the skills of a professional playground installer is not only a good idea but also an important one.

Here are some reasons why consulting with the experts is so important:

Site location

Choosing the right site for a playground is an important first step. Therefore, clear all potential hazards from the site, like low-hanging branches and rocks.

A professional installer will also consider the spacing of activities. Swings should have ample space around them to avoid injury, and two pieces of equipment with a lot of movement should not be placed close together. Spacing out activities will also help avoid crowding in certain areas.

Sun exposure

A fully exposed playground can have detrimental effects on all those who use the area. Playing without proper shade can pose the danger of dehydration, not to mention sunburn and the higher risk of skin cancer.

Furthermore, too much sun can affect the playground itself. Certain surfaces can overheat, and metal equipment like slides can superheat, causing nasty burns. Long-term UV exposure can also damage certain playground equipment, reducing its lifespan. A professional will always factor sun exposure into any playground installation project.

Playground surfaces

An often-overlooked area in playground safety is proper surface installation. As bumps and falls are inevitable on a playground, having the right material to absorb impacts can be crucial in preventing or lessening the extent of any injury.

Playground surfaces fall into two categories: unitary and loose fill. Unitary surfaces are made with sheets, tiles, or slabs of a unified material. They are usually applied over a layer of underpadding and then fixed in place with a binding agent. These surfaces are soft and flexible and absorb the shocks and impacts of a fall. Some examples include rubber tiles, polymeric surfaces, and synthetic turf.

Loose fill surfaces move with an impact, absorbing force and lessening the risk of injury. Loose substances like pea gravel and wood chips are poured over a more solid surface and are a more cost-efficient option than unitary surfaces. However, loose-fill playgrounds need proper drainage to prevent deterioration and require regular replacement of the loose-fill substance.

Testing is essential

Playground surfaces are tested for their ability to absorb impact in a trial called the ASTM F1292. Commonly used materials like grass, concrete, and asphalt don't provide the same protection as newer forms of surfacing, like rubber mulch. A professional surface installer will be well aware of surface limitations and advise on the best surface for your playground.

Apex Court Builders specialize in construction, resurfacing and repair of tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts, and more. We do business in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Diego! Call us today! (480) 384-9141.