Playground Surfacing

Playground surfacing is a critical element in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in any play area. The choice of the right surfacing material plays a vital role in protecting children from injuries, preserving the environment, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the playground.

Read along to understand which playground surfacing option is right for your play area!

A collage of our surfacing products

Our Playground Surfacing Options

Here at Custom Park Surfacing, we understand that different playgrounds have different needs.

That’s why we offer many different solutions for playground surfacing so you can find the perfect fit for whatever your needs are!

Here are some of our available playground surfacing options.

Poured in Place Rubber

This is a popular choice for playground surfacing due to its durability and safety. It is a two-layer system consisting of a base layer made from recycled rubber and a top layer made from virgin rubber granules. This surface is seamless, highly customizable in terms of color and design, and provides excellent shock absorption, reducing the risk of injuries from falls.

Bonded Rubber Mulch

Bonded rubber mulch is made from shredded recycled rubber tires, which are then bonded together to form a solid, yet permeable surface. It has a natural, rustic appearance resembling traditional wood mulch but with the added benefits of being more durable, low-maintenance, and offering good fall protection.

Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is a synthetic turf that mimics the appearance of natural grass. It is a versatile and aesthetically pleasing option for playground surfacing. It offers a soft and cushioned surface, reducing the impact of falls. Additionally, it is low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and available in various textures and colors.

Keep reading to determine the best option for your play area. Alternatively, click below to schedule a meeting with a surfacing expert.

poured in place rubber construction

Poured In Place Rubber Surfacing

Poured In Place (PIP) rubber surfacing is one of our most popular options when it comes to playground surfacing. 

Our in place rubber paving is customized to meet the safety, design and aesthetic requirements of any play surface. Because the rubber and urethane components get mixed and applied on site, incorporating school colors, logos, games and/or geometric shapes permanently embedded into the surface are practical options.

Thicknesses can be modified onsite to meet different fall heights on varying types of play equipment. Colors can be mixed to complement playground equipment, or even act as a durable print surface for games like hopscotch or foursquare. 

PIP rubber surfaces are versatile and suitable for various settings such as public parks, schools, daycare centers, churches, and residential developments. They are designed to meet or exceed ADA requirements and ASTM standards, ensuring top-notch safety. With the ability to withstand extensive playtime without significant wear and tear, PIP rubber surfaces are a reliable and excellent choice for playground surfacing.

The cost of a poured-in-place rubber surface typically ranges from $3 to $15 per square foot. The thickness of the surface and the chosen color are key factors influencing the overall cost. Thicker surfaces may provide greater durability but can increase the price, while specific colors may require additional materials or labor, affecting the final cost.

A properly installed and maintained pour-in-place rubber surface offers a durable and long-lasting flooring solution. Typically, this type of surface can last up to 10 years without requiring resurfacing. However, factors like foot traffic, weather conditions, and overall usage can influence its longevity. Regular care, including cleaning and inspections, helps prolong the surface’s life and ensures optimal performance.

Bonded Rubber Mulch

Bonded rubber mulch is a top choice for outdoor surfacing, crafted from 100% Recycled Shredded Rubber. Its specially designed installation process creates a strong and even surface, setting it apart from traditional loose-fill materials. 

This resilient mulch offers excellent durability and impact protection, making it an ideal option for playgrounds, sports fields, and other outdoor areas. With bonded rubber mulch, you can have peace of mind, knowing that your outdoor space is both safe and long-lasting.

Bonded rubber mulch is a versatile and durable surfacing material with various applications. It is commonly used as a playground surface, providing shock absorption and reducing the risk of injuries. It can also be utilized for landscaping, creating pathways and garden borders.

Additionally, bonded rubber mulch is suitable for athletic surfaces, offering safety and durability for sports fields and courts. With customizable options available, bonded rubber mulch provides a low-maintenance solution for creating safe and attractive outdoor spaces.

Bonded rubber mulch is known for its impressive longevity, making it a reliable and durable choice for outdoor surfacing. With proper installation and maintenance, bonded rubber mulch can last up to 10 years or even longer. Its exceptional durability stems from its composition and construction process.

Flexi Pave

Flexi-Pave Surfacing

Flexi Pave, KBI’s flagship product, is a flexible and porous paving solution that sets the gold standard in its field. Developed in 2001, it offers long-lasting, cost-effective, and comprehensive solutions for modern infrastructure. 

The key features of Flexi Pave include its flexibility, preventing cracking or settling, its porosity allowing groundwater recharge, and its cleansing properties that reduce dissolved nitrates and phosphates. It is ADA compliant, providing a safe and secure surface. 

Moreover, Flexi Pave is sustainable, utilizing recycled tires in its construction, reducing landfill waste, and promoting environmental responsibility. This permeable surface reduces stormwater runoff and pollution, saving costs compared to gravel paving, and can last up to 15 years. With color customization options available, it can seamlessly blend with the environment or serve as highly visible trail signage, offering durability and reduced maintenance needs.

Flexi Pave offers long-term cost savings compared to gravel paving, along with a lifespan of up to 15 years. By utilizing recycled tires, it contributes to reducing landfill waste while providing a sustainable surface for various applications.

The installation cost of KBI Flexi-Pave typically ranges from $10.00 to $12.00 per square foot, based on the specific requirements of the site.

Different kinds of turf

Artificial Turf Surfacing

Synthetic turf is a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass, specifically designed for playgrounds, fitness areas, dog parks, and small game play areas. 

It offers a visually pleasing and environmentally-friendly option, resembling real grass. With varying heights and colors available, it can fulfill specific play area needs. It meets Critical Fall Height requirements for safety and is accessible for children with diverse abilities. 

Additionally, it features SILVERBACK™, a special backer lining to prevent turf rutting and damage. Basic infill is included, and the system can be upgraded with EnviroFill™ with Microbeeds for enhanced performance.

When selecting artificial grass for playgrounds, it is recommended to choose polyethylene grass. This material offers a soft and durable surface that closely resembles real grass, making it an excellent choice for playgrounds.

Artificial turf is superior to real grass for playgrounds due to its durability, low maintenance, enhanced safety, and environmental benefits. It withstands heavy foot traffic, requires minimal upkeep, provides a predictable and safe surface, and conserves water resources.

Choosing The Right Playground Surfacing

Selecting the appropriate playground surfacing can be a challenging decision. However, Custom Park Surfacing is here to assist you every step of the way.

We understand the importance of finding the ideal playground surfacing option for your project, and we are dedicated to providing you with the necessary guidance and expertise. Whether you have questions about our various surfacing options or need assistance in choosing the best fit for your specific needs, we are here to help.

Contact us today, and our team will promptly get in touch with you to provide personalized support and help you make an informed decision about the perfect playground surfacing option for your project.

Questions about Playground Surfacing?