Playscape

[BooDog]

I'm buying a playscape for my daughters and I'm wondering if I need to put any material (sand, wood fibers, fine gravel, rubber mulch, etc.) underneath.

If I follow the recommended perimeter requirements the footprint would be pretty large, approx 25'X26'. Currently have St. Augustine growing where the playscape will be located.

Thoughts or suggestions on whether any material is needed and, if so, what's the best type of material to use? My daughters are 2 now but I expect them to be able to use the playscape for four or five years plus.

Thanks

 

[brntorng]

Locally, pea gravel is most commonly used. It's cheap, doesn't deteriorate, doesn't float away, dries quickly, doesn't sliver, and does a good job of breaking falls. Specially processed wood chips are also used, but probably need replenishment as they deteriorate. If you're around Austin, I know Whittlesey near La Frontera has the pea gravel (as do many others) and may also have an appropriate mulch.

At one time, a UT prof was one of the country's foremost authorities on playground safety. Not sure if he's still around, but his publications were useful references to be sure you were installing a safe structure.

 

[washparkhorn]

I like pea gravel as well, but this says it should be used only on structures less than 5 feet in height.

In reply to:

---

---