Rubber Granules Flooring for Playgrounds: Safe, Durable & Sustainable

What is Rubber Granules Flooring?

Rubber granules flooring is an elastic surfacing material made from little particles of a recycled or synthetic rubber. These granules are made from end-of-life tyres and, after suitable treatment, are produced into tiny, evenly controlled pieces. The rubber particles are first treated with a good quality polyurethane or epoxy binder and laid on an appropriate substrate in a non-injurious surface with good enduring qualities and strength. 

The surfacing may be employed as either poured-in-place (PIP) surfacing, tiles or loose-fill mulch, according to circumstances. The finished result is a soft, non-slip surface area improved with colour so as to be a safe and promote creative play. 

Because of this versatility rubber granules flooring is applicable in a great variety of uses and not merely for playgrounds. It is also used for:

• Playground surfacing and child-safe flooring

• Running tracks, gym flooring, and sports surfacing solutions

• Artificial turf infill for football pitches

• Rubber mulch for landscaping

• Industrial flooring and soundproofing

It's ease of use, shock absorbing ability and durability make it the preferred choice in numerous indoor and outdoor areas.

Types of Rubber Granules Flooring

Various types of rubber surfacing are now available to cater for various needs, budgets and places of installation.

Here are the three most popular types used in playgrounds:

1. Poured-in-Place (PIP) Rubber Surfacing

• There are two elements to this system:
• A sub layer made of larger recycled rubber granules

A top layer made of coloured EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) granules

The PIP system gives a seamless durable clean surface that can be coloured to suit any pattern or design, it is ideal for use in public playgrounds, kindergartens and inclusive play areas where the maximum advantage can be obtained in terms of safety and aesthetics.

2. Rubber Playground Tiles

These are pre-moulded interlocking tiles that can be laid on concrete or compacted sub-bases.

• They are simple to install, damaged tiles being easily removed and replaced if required.
• Available in a variety of thicknesses and colours.
• Also suitable for smaller playgrounds, schools and indoor play areas.

Rubber tiles give a combination of utility with style that is a desirable feature of both commercial and residential installations.

3. Loose-Fill Rubber Mulch

Rubber mulch bears resemblance to wood mulch, but is much more enduring in terms of environmental durability, drainage and safety.

• An economically viable solution for large outdoor areas.
• Shock absorbent and slip resistant.
• Some raking occasionally required, followed by top-ups to facilitate an even covering.

Loose fill rubber is particularly desirable for nature-type playground or garden play areas where a natural aesthetic is sought with the benefits of contemporary surfacing technology.

Things to Consider Before Installation

Before making an investment in rubber granules flooring for the playground, there are some factors which should be taken into account to assure full value and performance:

• Heat Retention: Darker colours absorb heat when in direct sunlight. Use lighter colours or shade protrusions to enhance comfort and safety.
• Initial Costs: Although it may be somewhat more expensive in initial installation than sand or grass, the reduced maintenance and longevity give better returns in the long term.
• Ground Preparation: A prepared sub-base is essential for a smooth and even surface and good drainage.

Material Content: Source the materials from certified suppliers who supply non toxic and free from heavy metals rubber granules for guaranteed durability and safety of the product.

Maintenance Tips for Rubber Granules Flooring

The maintenance of rubber granules flooring is minor compared to the other playground surfaces, however, its continuing upkeep will help preserve the asset and enhance safety.

Recommended maintenance duties includes:

• Sweep leaves, sand and debris off the surface weekly so as to deter any build up which may come about.
• Mild detergent and water combination is best cleaned with once a month, this will remove dirt and grime.
• Make an annual inspection to ascertain whether or not cracks, lifting edges or unevenness have developed.
• Immediate repairs must be made to the heavy traffic areas or damaged sections.

With continued maintenance, playground and court surfaces may be kept safe, aesthetic and functional for over a decade.

Final Verdict: Why Rubber Granules Flooring is the Best Choice for Playgrounds

To sum up, rubber granules flooring is the best possible combination of safety, durability, sustainability and creativity available in children's play areas. It provides protection to children against falls, enhances play experience and is a contributor enabling a greener and better planet through the re-use of recycled materials.

Despite the fact that installation costs are a little higher, the long term benefits of low maintenance, longevity and design flexibility will provide good and effective value for the investment in any playground project.

Whether that be as a school administrator, local council project planner or landscape architect, rubber granulated flooring becomes a guaranteed and certain way to provide for safer, cleaner and more involved play areas for children of all ages.

As community authorities continue to emphasis child safety and environmental responsibility, rubber granules flooring for playgrounds remains a choice and spokesmen are provided with it. In addition to this, parents can again be assured in the fact that their children will be playing on surfaces which are safe, outdoor and durable, proprietors can rest easy in the knowledge that their surfaces belong to such as to whether they are played on well by children of all ages. But, playgrounds operate profitably notwithstanding the distance broadens.