Reviving an Old School Playground: Transforming Broken Rubber Tiles to Astroturf

Playgrounds are an essential part of childhood, offering children a safe space to explore, socialise, and engage in physical activities. However, over time, these spaces can deteriorate, posing potential risks to children’s safety. One common issue is the degradation of rubber tiles, which can become broken and uneven. In this blog, we will explore the transformation of an old school playground with broken rubber tiles into a new, vibrant surface using astroturf.

1. Identifying the Problem:
When the rubber tiles in the old school playground started to break and become uneven, it posed several concerns. These tiles not only created an unattractive appearance but also increased the risk of trips, falls, and injuries for children. Recognizing the need for a solution, the school administration decided to revamp the playground surface.

2. The Benefits of Astroturf:
Astroturf, also known as artificial turf, is a synthetic grass-like surface that has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous advantages. Unlike natural grass, astroturf requires minimal maintenance, saving significant time and money for the school. It provides a consistent and level playing surface, reducing the risk of accidents caused by uneven ground. Additionally, astroturf is durable, weather-resistant, and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it an ideal choice for a playground.

3. Planning the Transformation:
Before embarking on the transformation process, the school administration formed a committee comprising teachers, parents, and students to discuss the project’s scope and requirements. They collaborated with landscape architects and playground experts to design a safe and engaging play area that would cater to children of different age groups.

4. Preparing the Ground:
To ensure a smooth transition, the broken rubber tiles were carefully removed, taking into account proper waste management and any recycling options carefully considered. The ground was then levelled to create a solid foundation for the new astroturf surface. This step was crucial to guarantee the longevity and safety of the playground.

5. Installing the Astroturf:
The installation of astroturf involved several stages. First, a layer of crushed stone was laid down to provide a stable base. Next, a shock-absorbent pad was placed to enhance the playground’s safety, minimizing the impact of falls. Finally, the astroturf, was laid and cut to fit around the existing playground equipment, installed and secured. The school chose standard green to create a natural andnvisually appealing environment for the children.

6. Finishing Touches:
To complete the transformation, additional elements can be incorporated into the playground design. These can include signgrass turf, colorful play structures, interactive equipment, and designated areas for different activities such as sports, imaginative play, and socializing. The addition of benches, shade structures, and proper lighting can also ensure that the playground was not only safe but also comfortable for children, teachers, and parents. In this case none of these additional items were necessary.

7. The Joy of a Transformed Playground:
Once the astroturf was in place, the transformation brought immense excitement to the children, who now had a safe, clean, and engaging space to enjoy their playtime. The new surface not only boosted their physical well-being but also encouraged creativity, social interaction, and overall happiness.

Conclusion:
The transformation of an old school playground with broken rubber tiles to a new astroturf surface is a testament to the importance of investing in children’s safety and well-being. By replacing the worn-out tiles with astroturf, the school administration successfully revitalised the playground, providing an attractive, durable, and safe environment for children to play and grow. This transformation not only enhances the school’s infrastructure but also contributes to the overall development and happiness of the students.