Surfacing is integral in protecting children on the playground. All playgrounds are required to have surfacing to protect children in the event of a fall. The definition of "surfacing", according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) is "material to be used in the use zone of any playground equipment." The "use zone" is the minimum area required extending beyond the equipment, also known as the "fall zone."

There are three main categories for types of surfacing available. Synthetic, loose-fill and inorganic loose-fill Each has it's own advantages and disadvantages.

Synthetic is composed of either rubber tile or pour-in place urethane. This type is low maintenance, easy to clean and has consistent shock absorbency. Disadvantages to synthetic are initial cost, having or pouring a cement pad and having a level play area.

Loose fill may be either shredded bark or oak chips. This has a low cost, easy installation and is available most everywhere. This type of fill has a reduced absorbency over time, cannot be installed over a hard surface and must be contained.

Inorganic loose fill are pea gravel and sand. These are also low cost, easy to install and available most everywhere. Like the loose fill, this type of fill has a reduced absorbency over time, cannot be installed over a hard surface and must be contained.

Based on the type of material you choose, you will need to add a border system to contain the surfacing material. There are excellent plastic and wood products on the market. Your choice will most likely be dictated by budget. It is important to consider product quality and performance of the material options when planning your playground budget.

VisionMasters

As you continue to read through our selection of outdoor furniture, keep in mind we stand ready to answer any questions you may have about our offerings including Cast Aluminum Outdoor Furniture, Picnic Tables, Commercial Trash Cans, Street And Park Benches, Recycled Outdoor Furniture, Pool Slides & Wood Outdoor Furniture. Call us at 832-403-5710 whenever such questions arise and let one of our experts help you make the right choice. Our home office is located in Houston, Texas with warehouses located throughout the United States that enable us to service all 50 states including El Paso, Texas, Dallas TX, San Antonio, TX, Austin, TX New York NY, Los Angeles CA, Miami, FL. Chicago, IL. Denver CO., Boise ID, Atlanta GA, Raleigh-Durham NC, Washington DC, Albuquerque NM, Huntsville AL, Fayetteville AR, Norfolk VA , Madison WI