Playground safety surfacing

When it comes to playground surfaces, many people think of bark mulch as a popular option. There is no question that it is the cheapest option for playground surfacing, however, there are several reasons why bark is not a suitable choice for playgrounds, and why upgrading to an artificial turf and shickpad system is a much better alternative.

Why bark isn’t suitable for playgrounds

Playground fall protection

One of the main reasons why bark isn’t ideal for playgrounds is its lack of durability. Bark mulch can very easily shift and move around, creating uneven surfaces that can be hazardous for children. This can lead to trips and falls, increasing the risk of injuries. Over a relatively short period of time, bark in high use areas will break down completely, and leave the area with little to no critical fall height  protection at all.  In contrast, an artificial turf over shockpad system provides a stable and level surface that is safe for children to play on and will stay that way for a long period of time.

Clean and safe playground flooring

Another issue with bark mulch is its tendency to attract pests and insects. As the bark decomposes over time, it can become a breeding ground for bugs and other undesirable objects, creating an unsanitary environment for children. Artificial turf, on the other hand, does not attract pests and is easy to clean and maintain, making it a more hygienic option for playgrounds.

Low maintenance playground surface

In addition to safety and cleanliness concerns, bark mulch also requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Over time, the mulch can break down and become compacted, leading to the need for frequent replenishment. This can be time-consuming and costly, especially for larger playground areas. Artificial turf, on the other hand, is a low-maintenance option that requires minimal upkeep to keep it in top condition.

Accessible playground materials

Furthermore, bark mulch can pose accessibility challenges for children with mobility issues. The uneven and shifting nature of the mulch can make it difficult for children in wheelchairs or with other disabilities to navigate the playground safely. Artificial turf provides a smooth and level surface that is easy for all children to access and enjoy.

In terms of playground safety surfacing, artificial turf is a superior choice to bark mulch. Converting your existing playground or building from new, astroturf playground surfacing offers a durable and impact-absorbing surface that provides excellent fall protection for children at play. This can help prevent serious injuries in the event of accidents or falls, making it a safer option for playgrounds.

When considering alternatives to bark mulch for playground surfaces, artificial grass installation stands out as the top choice. Turf offers a safe and low-maintenance playground flooring solution that is accessible to all children. By upgrading to artificial turf, your playground will provide a reliable and durable surface that promotes safety and fun for kids of all ages and abilities..

Bark mulch may have been a popular choice for playground surfaces in the past, but it is clear that artificial turf is a better option for a variety of reasons. From safety and cleanliness to accessibility and maintenance to aesthetics and colour range, an artificial turf playground surface offers numerous advantages over traditional bark mulch. By removing bark and upgrading with astro turf, you will provide a safe, low maintenance and enjoyable environment for children to play and explore with.