Before building a playset for your child, you should decide on the material that will go underneath it. There are two main types of material: loose-fill and solid-fill. Loose-fill is packed with large amounts of wood mulch, while solid-fill involves covering the base with a sheet of material such as grass, concrete, or poured dirt. It takes less skill to install than solid-fill, and the best way to use it is to rake it to the desired areas of your base.
What To Put Under A Playset
Natural Grass
When setting up a backyard playset, you should use virgin wood rather than treated wood because it may contain contaminants. In addition to wood, natural grass is often used as the surface underneath playsets because it feels great underfoot.
Natural grass is a great choice for playgrounds because it will help preserve the look of your backyard and will help prevent the appearance of bald patches or bare spots. You can also use grass under a playset for safety as it breaks down gradually.
Synthetic Turf
Installing synthetic grass under a child’s playset can increase the environment’s safety and help parents keep their children healthy. While fake grass provides all the beauty of a green lawn, it is also durable and tough.
Whether you install a synthetic turf on a playground for recreational use or as a permanent solution for a wet area, this material will last for many years. Additionally, it provides additional cushioning from impact and helps prevent injuries.
Sand
If you’re planning to put up a playset in your backyard, sand is one ground cover option. Sand is widely used in parks, playgrounds, and private property. Not only does it absorb shock well, but it can also hide sharp objects that might otherwise be exposed.
Choosing the right material depends on your budget, safety concerns, and the type of playset you have. Below are the pros and cons of sand for playsets.
Pea Gravel
Many playground builders choose pea gravel as the material underneath their playsets for a variety of reasons. It is an inexpensive, easy-to-install surface, and it is available in bags at many hardware stores or in bulk at stone yards. Pea gravel is a natural stone product and does not contain artificial colors or sealants, making it an eco-friendly alternative to sand. Pea gravel isn’t a great choice for a toddler playground, however, since it can become hot and choking hazards when children fall. Also, it is not ADA compliant and isn’t easy to navigate for disabled children and may not be safe for small children.
Rubber Mulch
Putting rubber mulch under a playset is a great idea for various reasons. It absorbs shock from falls and keeps children safe, reducing the chance of injury. It’s also non-toxic and won’t attract bugs, making it a better option for allergy children. Depending on the supplier, rubber mulch can be very cheap. However, it is essential to note that rubber mulch can be flammable and is not completely rock solid. Because of this, rubber mulch must be installed properly.
Hi, my name is Benjamin, and I am the author of the Sandbox Playground. I believe that playgrounds and sandboxes are a great way to inspire kids’ imaginations. When I’m not writing or working on new projects, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two young children.
