WELCOME TO FAIRMONT INDUSTRIES
Language:
Poured rubber playground flooring plays a vital role in creating safe, enjoyable, and accessible play areas where children can explore and grow. The choice of playground flooring is crucial, as it not only enhances safety but also influences accessibility, maintenance, and the overall aesthetics of the space. Among the various options available today, poured-in-place rubber flooring—also called wet pour rubber—stands out as a modern, durable, and visually appealing solution for nurseries, schools, parks, daycare centres, and even residential playgrounds.
With its impact-absorbing surface designed to enhance safety, slip-resistant qualities, and design versatility, poured rubber playground flooring — also known as Poured in Place Rubber used in playgrounds — offers a continuous, cushioned, and long-lasting surface. However, as with any type of playground surfacing, wet pour rubber has its pros and cons. This guide explores the advantages, limitations, and applications of outdoor rubber playground flooring systems to help you decide whether it’s the ideal investment for your play area.
Poured rubber playground flooring, also referred to as poured-in-place rubber flooring, comprises a two-layer system made up of a shock-absorbing base layer and a colourful, durable top layer. The surface is installed on-site by mixing wet pour rubber granules (typically EPDM or recycled SBR crumb rubber) with a specialised binding agent, then poured and trowelled into place.
Poured-in-place rubber flooring offers a high level of resistance to impact of falls and abrasion, providing a seamless, vibrant surface suitable for various indoor and outdoor applications. Customisable thickness, colour, and design options can be chosen based on fall height requirements and aesthetic preferences. Many installations include recycled rubber repurposed from old tyres, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable surfacing option.
Due to its versatility, poured-in-place rubber flooring may be used in outdoor rubber playground flooring systems, indoor recreation centres, splash pads, schoolyards, community parks, and sports courts.
Poured-in-place flooring has become one of the most popular modern playground surfacing options, thanks to its excellent safety performance, long lifespan, and design flexibility. Below are the key benefits that make poured-in-place rubber flooring a preferred choice for schools, parks, and recreational spaces.
Safety is the primary concern in any playground environment. Poured-in-place rubber surfacing delivers an impact-absorbing surface designed to enhance safety, meeting recognised safety standards such as ASTM and EN. This cushioned structure helps minimise injury risks from falls, offering significantly better protection compared to hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete. Its shock-absorbing design makes PIP flooring ideal for high-activity play areas.
Poured-in-place rubber flooring offers a high level of resistance to impact of falls and abrasion and is engineered to endure heavy foot traffic, UV exposure, moisture, and fluctuating outdoor weather conditions. Unlike loose-fill materials such as sand, wood chips, or rubber mulch—which can shift, scatter, or break down—the seamless rubber surface remains firmly in place. With proper installation and routine care, a PIP playground surface can last over a decade without major resurfacing.
One of the standout advantages of poured rubber playground flooring is its design versatility. Available in a wide selection of colours, it can be customised with graphics, patterns, playground games, educational elements, or themed artwork. Schools often incorporate mascots or school colours, while public parks use vibrant designs to create engaging and visually appealing play environments.
Poured in place rubber flooring provides a smooth, seamless, non-slip surface that complies with accessibility standards. Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers move easily across the surface, making it an excellent choice for inclusive playgrounds designed for users of all abilities.
Compared to loose-fill playground surfacing, wet pour rubber is extremely low maintenance. It does not require frequent raking, topping up, or level adjustments. Simple cleaning—such as sweeping, hosing down, or occasional pressure washing—is sufficient to maintain its appearance and performance.
Many poured-in-place rubber flooring systems incorporate recycled rubber granules, helping reduce landfill waste and supporting sustainability efforts. High-quality EPDM rubber granules are durable, weather-resistant, and available in non-toxic, antimicrobial options, offering a safer and more hygienic surface for children.
Because Poured in Place Rubber used in playgrounds is installed as a continuous layer, it eliminates gaps, seams, and tripping hazards. The smooth, level surface enhances safety during active play and is suitable not only for playgrounds but also for splash pads, sports courts, pathways, and amusement areas.
While the pro’s are plentiful, here are some cons that you might want to consider before choosing a poured rubber playground surface.
The cost of wet pour flooring will depend on a number of factors, including surface area, thickness, colour, and complexity of design. Poured rubber playground flooring has a higher upfront cost than wood chips, pea gravel, or rubber mulches. However, its long lifespan, durability, and low maintenance usually justify the investment.
Poured rubber playground surfaces will get hot when they are exposed to direct sunlight, especially dark colours. This could be a temporary discomfort through hot summer months. Recommendations for reducing the issue amongst others are to use lighter-coloured poured surfaces, provide shade structures or water down the surface.
Although durable, wet pour rubber granules can show wear in high-traffic zones like swing areas or slide exits, requiring professional resurfacing or patch repairs over time.
Poured-in-place rubber flooring cannot be installed as a DIY project. Professional installation is required using specialised equipment and a multi-step process, which adds to the cost but ensures a compliant and safe surface.
For organisations that value child safety, long-term durability, and inclusive play access, poured-in-place rubber flooring represents real value. While short-term costs may be higher than alternatives, the long-term benefits of impact-absorbing surfaces, low maintenance, and extended lifespan make it cost-effective over the playground’s lifetime.
In other words, poured rubber flooring is ideal for schools, councils, and private developers seeking engaging, safe, and long-lasting playgrounds that meet community and safety standards.
Poured rubber playground flooring is a highly versatile safety surface used in a wide range of indoor and outdoor environments. Thanks to its durability, impact absorption, and seamless finish, it provides a reliable flooring option for facilities that prioritise safety, accessibility, and long-term performance.
Poured rubber playground flooring offers long-lasting durability and a slip-resistant surface ideal for high-use public playgrounds. Its seamless, cushioned design supports safe play and helps maintain ADA-friendly accessibility.
Schools benefit greatly from poured rubber playground flooring, as it can be fully customised with school colours, logos, or mascots. This type of poured rubber safety surfacing offers a resilient, impact-absorbing foundation that enhances daily student safety while supporting long-term durability and low maintenance needs.
In daycare environments, the soft, antimicrobial properties of poured rubber flooring offer enhanced cushioning to reduce injury risks for infants and toddlers.
For homeowners, poured in place flooring provides an attractive, low-maintenance solution for backyard play zones. The multicoloured finish of poured rubber safety surfacing not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a cushioned, comfortable space where children can play safely.
Community parks use poured rubber surfaces to establish durable, welcoming play zones for children and adults. The material provides a clean, defined play boundary and withstands heavy public use.
In indoor environments such as shopping malls, schools, and recreation centres, poured rubber playground flooring delivers excellent slip resistance and a soft underfoot feel. This makes poured in place flooring ideal for high-traffic indoor play areas, offering consistent safety and long-lasting performance.
Poured rubber playground flooring is also suitable for futsal courts, basketball courts, and gymnasium flooring, thanks to its reliable grip and shock-absorbing qualities.
The UV-resistant, slip-resistant nature of poured rubber playground flooring makes it a great option for splash pads and other wet play environments.
Amusement parks can take advantage of custom colours and designs to create thematic, visually appealing surfaces that remain durable under continuous use.
Poured-in-place rubber flooring combines safety, durability, and creative design into a seamless, high-performance playground surface. Its impact-absorbing surface designed to enhance safety, low maintenance, and long-lasting resilience make it one of the most practical and visually appealing playground flooring solutions available.
While the initial installation cost may be higher than other materials, the long-term value—including minimal upkeep, exceptional durability, and reliable fall protection—makes poured rubber playground flooring a cost-effective choice for schools, councils, developers, and homeowners alike.
Whether you are planning a school playground, community park, daycare centre, or residential play area, wet pour rubber flooring offers a safe, colourful, and resilient surface that promotes years of joyful, secure play.
Poured rubber playground flooring is one of the safest and most durable surfacing options for schools, parks, and recreational areas. Known for its excellent shock absorption, slip resistance, and customisable designs, this surfacing material is a long-term investment in children's safety and play experience. Below, we answer the most common questions about poured-in-place rubber flooring, including its benefits, installation, maintenance, cost, and lifespan.
Poured rubber playground flooring is a type of safety surface material commonly used in playgrounds and recreational areas to protect children from injuries due to falls. The poured-in-place rubber playground surface is made by mixing and pouring liquid rubber material on-site, allowing it to cure into a seamless, resilient, impact-absorbing surface.
The rubber granules used in poured rubber playground flooring can be made from a variety of materials, including recycled tires, virgin rubber, or a combination of both. The binder used to hold the rubber granules together can be made from a range of materials, such as polyurethane or epoxy resin.
The poured-in-place process involves mixing the rubber granules and binder together in a mixer, and then pouring the mixture onto a prepared sub-base. The mixture is then spread out evenly and smoothed out using trowels or rollers. The surface can be customized by adding color, patterns, or even logos.
Poured rubber playground flooring is popular because it provides a soft and safe landing surface for children during play, helping to reduce the risk of injuries from falls. It is also durable, long-lasting, and requires minimal maintenance.
Poured rubber playground flooring has become a popular choice for parks, schools, and recreation areas due to its combination of safety, durability, and customization. Here's why it's an excellent option for modern playgrounds:
Safety
One of the primary reasons to opt for poured rubber playground flooring is safety. It offers excellent impact absorption, reducing the risk of injury when children fall. It complies with safety standards, including ASTM F1292, ensuring that it provides a protective cushion.
Durability
Poured-in-Place (PIP) rubber safety surfacing is built to last, perfect for any outdoor play or fitness area. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, extreme weather conditions, and constant play, maintaining its integrity for years. This durability makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Customization
With poured rubber playground flooring, you have the freedom to customize your playground's appearance. You can choose from a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to create an engaging and visually appealing space for children.
Low Maintenance
Maintaining poured rubber playground flooring is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional maintenance are all that's required to keep it looking great and performing well.
The thickness of poured rubber playground flooring can vary based on the critical fall height of the equipment in your playground. The critical fall height is the maximum height from which a child can fall without sustaining a severe injury. The thicker the surface, the higher the critical fall height it can accommodate. A professional installer can help you determine the appropriate thickness for your specific playground equipment.
Yes, poured rubber flooring is an eco-friendly choice. It's made from recycled rubber, reducing waste in landfills, and the binder used is typically non-toxic. Additionally, the longevity of this surfacing material means less frequent replacement, further reducing environmental impact.
Yes, poured rubber playground flooring is repairable. Over time, it may experience wear and tear, but these issues can be easily addressed. Repairs often involve patching or adding a new layer, which can be done by experienced professionals. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your poured-in-place rubber surface.
Installing poured rubber playground flooring requires professional expertise. The site preparation, mixing of materials, and final installation should be handled by experienced installers. The process involves:
Site Preparation
This includes clearing the area, grading, and creating a suitable base.
Mixing and Pouring
The rubber granules are mixed with the binder and poured onto the prepared surface.
Smoothing
The surface is meticulously smoothed to ensure a seamless and attractive finish.
Installing poured rubber playground flooring can be a complex and technical process that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. It is not recommended to be done by an individual without professional experience and training. The installation process involves preparing the surface, mixing and pouring the rubber material, and spreading and finishing it to create a smooth and even surface. Mistakes during the installation can result in a lower quality and less durable surface. Hiring a professional contractor with experience in installing poured rubber playground flooring is recommended to ensure a successful and safe installation.
Poured rubber playground flooring typically has a lifespan of 15-20 years or more, with proper maintenance and upkeep. The exact lifespan of poured rubber playground flooring depends on various factors, such as the quality of the materials used, exposure to the elements, and the level of foot traffic it experiences. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and resealing, can help prolong its lifespan and maintain its appearance and performance. It's also important to repair any cracks or tears as soon as they occur to prevent further damage.
Maintaining poured-in-place rubber playground flooring is relatively easy. Here are some maintenance tasks to keep in mind:
Regular Cleaning
Sweep or blow away debris, and wash the surface periodically with mild detergent and water.
Inspect for Damage
Routinely check for any signs of wear, damage, or loose areas. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage.
Resealing
Periodically reseal the surface to maintain its appearance and performance.
Poured rubber playground flooring is incredibly versatile and can be installed in various locations, including:
Playgrounds
It's an ideal choice for playgrounds to ensure the safety of children.
Sports Facilities
Poured-in-place rubber flooring is suitable for sports courts, tracks, and multi-purpose areas.
Pool Decks
Its slip-resistant properties make it a great choice for pool areas.
Pathways
Use it for walking paths, trails, or any area where a durable and comfortable surface is required.
Selecting a reputable installer is crucial for a successful Poured-in-place rubber playground flooring project. Consider the following when choosing an installer:
Experience
Look for professionals with a track record of successful installations.
References
Ask for references and reviews from previous clients.
Certifications
Ensure the installer complies with industry standards and has the necessary certifications.
Insurance
Verify that the installer has liability insurance.
The cost of poured rubber playground flooring varies depending on several factors such as the size of the area, the thickness of the material, and the cost of labor in the local market. On average, poured-in-place rubber playground flooring can cost anywhere from $8 to $20 per square foot, installed. This can range from a low of $6 per square foot for a basic installation to over $25 per square foot for more complex or customized installations. The cost can also be influenced by factors such as the color and finish of the rubber material, the type of binder used, and the complexity of the surface design. To get a more accurate estimate, it is recommended to get quotes from several contractors and compare their prices, materials, and services.
Yes, Poured rubber playground flooring comes in a wide range of colors and can be customized with different patterns and designs. This allows for creative and thematic playground designs that enhance the aesthetic appeal.
Poured rubber playground flooring offers superior safety, durability, and accessibility compared to materials like mulch, sand, or grass. While it may have a higher initial cost, its long-term benefits and lower maintenance costs make it a cost-effective option over time.
Yes, poured rubber playground flooring is generally considered safe for recreational and playground use. When installed properly and maintained regularly, it can provide a safe and durable surface for a variety of outdoor activities. Poured rubber playground flooring is made from a combination of rubber granules and a binder that creates a seamless and shock-absorbing surface. This type of surfacing is designed to meet safety standards set by organizations such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Regular maintenance and inspections can help to ensure its safety and performance over time. However, it's important to select a reputable contractor with experience in installing poured rubber playground flooring to ensure a safe and successful installation.
Poured rubber playground flooring is an excellent choice for creating a safe, durable, and visually appealing playground or recreational area. By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision about this exceptional surfacing material.