Choosing the right turf for a children’s playground involves more than just selecting the greenest natural grass. Ensuring a safe play environment for your kids requires careful consideration.
In the spring, when the ground is soft, children can play with minimal risk. However, as temperatures rise and the ground hardens, the playground surface becomes less forgiving. Additionally, wet weather can render a natural grass playground unusable due to poor drainage and muddiness.
Let’s explore an alternative playground turf option: artificial grass.
Advances in Artificial Turf Technology
Artificial turf technology has seen significant advancements in recent years. A couple of decades ago, synthetic turf for homes and yards was not of high quality. The push for better performance in sports arenas and stadiums accelerated improvements. Back then, the only similarity between artificial grass and its natural counterpart was color, and even that looked artificial!
Today, artificial grass is becoming increasingly popular as a playground surface. Not only does it resemble real grass, but it also provides enhanced safety for children. Modern artificial playground turf is designed with child safety in mind.
Enhanced Cushioning with Artificial Playground Turf
Artificial playground turf installations include “fall zones” beneath the surface that offer cushioning. These zones provide a softer landing compared to hard-baked natural grass. Let’s examine how this cushioning is achieved.
Creating a Cushioned Surface with Artificial Turf
Playground turf installers can create a cushioned surface in various ways. One method involves using mono-blade grass fibers, which are softer and less abrasive due to their lack of ridges.
In contrast, W-shaped blades are more rigid and abrasive. While useful in other applications, softer blades are more suitable for playground turf.
Another cushioning method is using a heavier and thicker blend of turf. For example, a 90-ounce turf provides more cushioning than a thinner 50 or 60-ounce blend. Think of it as the difference between falling into one inch or two feet of snow—the deeper snow offers more cushioning.
Light-Density Foam Layer in Playground Turf
Installers incorporate a light-density foam layer as part of the overall cushioning for playground turf. This foam, typically one to two inches thick, allows water to drain through from the fibers above. It is usually made from recycled materials and meets strict safety standards.
Standard Layering System for Playground Turf
A typical playground turf system includes several layers. The top layer consists of 90-ounce mono-blade turf that provides initial impact protection. Beneath that, a light-density foam layer offers additional cushioning. These layers sit on a base of crushed gravel and sand, which provides flexibility and drainage.
IPEMA Certification
The International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) sets safety standards for playgrounds and equipment. This non-profit organization helps manufacturers develop safe products and educates parents and teachers on playground safety.
Playground Safety Statistics
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, as cited by the National Safety Council, over 200,000 playground injuries occur daily. With the addition of slides, climbing frames, and swings, the risk of falls increases. Therefore, playground surfaces must provide adequate cushioning to prevent serious injuries.
As a homeowner, you have several options for creating a soft surface. Gravel, sand, wood chips, and bark mulch can offer some cushioning but can shift during play, leaving unprotected areas.
Special shock-absorbing mats also have drawbacks. These thick rubber mats can absorb heat, becoming hot and emitting unpleasant odors, especially in warm weather.
Additional Benefits of Artificial Grass for Playgrounds
Using artificial grass for playground turf maintains a natural look in your yard while staying lush and green year-round. It requires minimal maintenance, providing a hassle-free play area. You can even easily clean up pet odors and messes with a product like Turf Hero.
Incorporating organic infill helps disperse grass fibers and promotes airflow, eliminating odors from spilled drinks, food, or pet waste.
Artificial playground turf also offers superior drainage, handling rain 25 times faster than other surfaces, including natural grass. This ensures maximum playtime for your kids.
Conclusion
This article highlights why artificial playground turf is an excellent choice for children’s play areas. For any questions about playground turf or artificial grass, feel free to contact us today.