When it comes to any playground setting for children of various ages, safety without compromising on enjoyment is a top priority. There are several factors to consider to achieve this goal, and one is the material you’ll be using on the ground – with playground wood chips serving as the most common example.
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we’re proud to offer a wide range of playground wood chips to clients around Salt Lake City and nearby areas. Here are some of the chief qualities that make playground wood chips ideal for playgrounds, plus some tips on how to utilize them to create safe, enjoyable play spaces in any setting.
Impact Absorption
At the heart of playground safety, at least when it comes to the surface kids will be playing on primarily, is impact absorption. This refers to the ability of a material to cushion falls and reduce the risk of serious injury.
Playground wood chips are an excellent choice for this purpose, as they have been specifically designed and tested to meet safety standards for impact absorption. They are able to cushion falls from various heights, depending on the depth of the wood chips used, making them suitable for a variety of play equipment.
At the same time, they don’t allow such a cushion that children are prone to intentionally falling on them. This encourages safer play behaviors and reduces the risk of injuries from rough play.
Cleanliness
Cleanliness is always important when children are involved, particularly in play areas. This is another area where playground wood chips are beneficial. The wood chips can help to minimize the spread of bacteria and germs in play areas, as they are not conducive environments for bacterial growth. Additionally, wood chips don’t retain moisture like other playground surfaces such as rubber mulch, which can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not regularly cleaned.
Furthermore, because wood chips are a natural material, they do not release harmful chemicals or toxins into the air or soil like some synthetic materials might. This makes them a safer option for children to play on. Our playground wood chips at BioGrass, for instance, are made from untreated wood, ensuring no chemical presence whatsoever.
Simple Maintenance
Another major benefit of playground wood chips is their ease of maintenance. Unlike some other playground surfaces, such as sand or pea gravel, wood chips do not require constant leveling and raking to maintain a safe surface. They also do not need to be replaced as frequently as some other materials. With regular upkeep and occasional replenishing, wood chips can last for several years without needing to be completely replaced.
In terms of cleanliness, wood chips are easy to maintain as well. Simply remove any large debris or objects from the surface and rake the chips occasionally to even them out. In addition, some companies offer cleaning services for playgrounds with wood chip surfaces, ensuring that any potential hazards are removed regularly.
Cost-Effective
Compared to other playground surface materials such as rubber or sand, wood chips are a cost-effective option. They are typically less expensive to purchase and install, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious playground projects.
Furthermore, the natural durability of wood chips means that they require less frequent replacement compared to other materials. This results in long-term cost savings for maintenance and upkeep.
Eco-Friendly
Wood chips are also considered to be an eco-friendly option as they are made from recycled materials. Many companies use discarded wood from construction sites or tree trimmings to create their wood chip products, reducing waste in landfills.
In addition, wood chips can also provide environmental benefits for the surrounding area. They act as a natural mulch, helping to retain moisture in the soil and reduce erosion. This can improve plant growth and biodiversity in gardens and landscapes.
Playground Wood Chip Setup Tips
When it comes to creating safe, fun play spaces for kids using playground wood chips, here are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Quantity: The recommended depth for playground wood chips is 9-12 inches. This ensures proper impact absorption and minimizes the risk of falls.
- Quality: Make sure to use high-quality wood chips that are free from any harmful chemicals or foreign objects.
- Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain the depth of the wood chips to ensure optimal safety.
- Placement: Playground wood chips should be placed at least 6 feet away from any equipment, such as swings or slides, to provide a safe landing area.
- Reserves: Be sure to maintain a stock of extra wood chips to quickly replace any worn or damaged areas.
- Signage: Install clear and visible signs around the playground area reminding children and caregivers to play safely on the wood chips.
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we’re happy to offer playground wood chips for playgrounds and various needs around Salt Lake City. Contact us today to learn more or begin your order!