To reduce the frequency and severity of their injuries, it is crucial to have certified playground surfacing. Traditionally, the preferred choice has been wood chippings. Richard Oates, Landscaping Category Manager at Travis Perkins, discusses why wood is now facing some competition.

Wood chippings are the most commonly used form of surfacing for playgrounds and outdoor play areas and for good reason. Not only a cost effective solution, they have the benefit of being environmentally friendly and simple to install. However, the overall value for money can be questioned. Regular re-investment is needed as chippings easily get scattered and can be difficult to maintain and often become muddy and can result in the attraction of pets and wildlife.

This had led to many contractors and landscapers to look for alternatives, namely rubber.

Although contractors have raised concerns over the high upfront costs associated with rubber, the long term benefits to be gained make it a far better investment than wood chippings.

The biggest advantage of rubber chippings is its endurance, making it ideal for high traffic areas such as indoor and outdoor playgrounds. Rubber paving is also extremely durable and will not chip or crack and is not greatly affected by rain, snow, or ice. In addition, the rubber surfacing solution is easy to clean meaning any installation can be enjoyed for decades without the worry of incurring any further maintenance costs.

Rubber paving also has the versatility of being used in residential and commercial applications including patios and garages through to sports arenas and gymnasiums. It has all the benefits of rubber chippings and is now a regularly sourced alternative to more popular paving options such as brick or natural stone.

Ultimately, whilst wood chippings are expected to remain the market leader, there are clear reasons why rubber is an up and coming alternative surfacing material. We are seeing a growing market in families creating child safe play areas at home and the versatility of rubber as a flooring solution is beyond question. Being a viable solution across residential and commercial applications, it looks like the popularity of rubber will continue to grow.

Travis Perkins now offers a range of outdoor rubber paving and chipping landscaping solutions.