Enhancing Playground Safety through Material Selection

A Playground is a space where a child’s imagination can soar and their physical abilities are put to the test. Ensuring the safety of these play areas is crucial and the selection of materials that go under playground equipment and is just as important as the playground pieces themselves. Impact attenuation, cushioning, and fall protection are paramount and closely related to the recommended depth and amount of material required to create a secure playground surface.

What is Impact Attenuation?

Put simply, impact attenuation is the depth specific material needs to be in order to sustain a fall from prescribed height. Children are naturally curious and energetic, leading to inevitable falls and tumbles during play and the choice of playground surface material plays a critical role in reducing the risk of injury. Materials such as engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, or rubber tiles are designed to absorb the impact of falls, effectively cushioning the landing and minimizing the severity of injuries or preventing them all together. These materials act as a protective barrier, creating a safer environment for children to explore and enjoy their playtime. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends a minimum depth of 12 inches of loose-fill materials, such as engineered wood fiber or rubber mulch. This depth is crucial for absorbing the impact of falls from various heights, safeguarding children against injuries. It is important to note that different materials have different compaction rates, and regular maintenance is necessary to maintain the recommended depth.

Additionally, it is crucial to have sufficient material coverage underneath and around the playground equipment. The CPSC suggests extending the material at least 6 feet in all directions from the equipment to ensure adequate fall protection. This ensures that children have a safe zone around the play structures where they can land with reduced risk of injury.

When it comes to playgrounds, safety should always be a top priority. Choosing the right materials and maintaining the appropriate depth and amount of material underneath playground equipment is crucial for creating a safe play environment. By working with a licensed professional you can ensure your playground is finished properly with peak safety measures in place.

Planting beds and stone… a perfect pair


When it comes to landscaping, stone is often an overlooked hero that can transform your outdoor space into a stunning oasis. Bring a natural look that offers a myriad of benefits when used in landscaping beds. In addition to elevating your landscape design creating variety, there are many benefits to the use of stone over other materials including:

  • Durability and Longevity
  • Excellent Drainage
  • Weed Suppression:
  • Incredible color variety
  • Low Environmental Impact:

One of the most significant benefits of using stone and rock in landscaping beds is their exceptional durability and longevity. Unlike organic materials that decompose over time, stone and rock retain their structural integrity, ensuring that your landscape beds will stand the test of time. They are resistant to weathering, erosion, and pests, making them low-maintenance options for long-term landscape design. By incorporating stone and rock into your beds, you can create landscapes that remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

Proper drainage is crucial for maintaining healthy plants and preventing water-related issues. Stone and rock excel in promoting efficient water drainage within landscaping beds. Their porous nature allows water to infiltrate the soil, preventing excess moisture buildup that can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. By improving soil drainage, stone and rock help create a healthy growing environment, ensuring the longevity and vitality of your plants.

Say goodbye to endless weeding sessions! Stone and rock serve as effective barriers against weed growth in landscaping beds. Their non-organic composition forms a protective layer that inhibits weed germination and growth. This means less time spent battling unwanted vegetation and more time enjoying your beautiful landscape. By incorporating stone and rock, you can significantly reduce the need for chemical herbicides and minimize the effort required to maintain weed-free beds.

Using stone and rock in landscaping beds is an environmentally friendly choice. Unlike synthetic materials, they are sourced naturally and do not release harmful chemicals into the environment. By opting for these sustainable options, you contribute to the preservation of natural resources and reduce your carbon footprint. Furthermore, stone and rock require minimal water and maintenance, making them a water-wise and eco-conscious landscaping solution.

Integrating stone and rock into your landscaping can allow you to reap the benefits of their durability and excellent drainage properties along with weed suppression and design versatility. These natural elements offer a compelling case for enhancing your outdoor space. Embrace the power of stone and rock in your landscape design, and unlock a world of beauty, functionality, and sustainability that will transform your backyard into an enchanting haven for years to come.