The condition of the resilient surface underneath an elevated structure can make the difference between a bruise and a broken bone.  Understanding what to use and how to apply an adequate safety surface is one of the most important factors in preventing serious injuries. 

With the exception of sand which can be purchased in Hawaii, most surfacing materials are very expensive which causes many private organizations to forgo providing adequate surfacing. As long as you have an elevated structure which kids are intended to climb atop of, a six foot, fall zone around the perimeter of the structure should be installed. Surfacing will occupy more space and will often cost more than the commercial structure installed. In addition, because of the limited play value associated with elevated equipment, other types of play features that do no require surfacing are strongly recommended. 

The safety surfacing used for a playground should primarily be based on the height and type of equipment used.  Other factors such as maintenance and immediate environmental conditions also play an important role in the final choice. Every surface has its good and bad aspects, so it is critical to know what you are getting into. Contrary to popular belief (partially supported by Hawaii based playground companies) the use of rubber surfacing is not mandatory in private or publicly accessible playgrounds.
 

Estimated cost for a 30' by 30' play area. (shipping included)*

In Hawaii the best choice of sand is Island Beach Sand which can be purchased directly from Hawaiian Cement at their Campbell Industrial Park location (673-4200).  It is screened, non-staining and has a higher drainage rate than any other sand. Like any loose-fill material, it is essential to provide proper drainage to prevent compaction.  Sand is not ADA compliant, but resilient pathways can affordably be installed by applying rubber tiles or mats.

$2,300

Wood Carpet

Engineered wood fiber is increasingly the first choice for playgrounds.  Manufactured by Zeager Bros. Inc., Woodcarpet has a warranty of 15 years and offers more protection than any other material sold.  The cost of shipping to Hawaii increases the estimated cost by 40%.  We are currently asking Hawaiian Earth Products (682-5895) to develop a product to help organizations provide safer playgrounds.  We urge you to do the same. 

$3,500

$4,500

Rubber tiles are used in play areas that are not routinely maintained (loose-fill materials have to be raked back into place).  The product we offer is a recycled rubber which comes in either a uniform color or a granulated surface. Using a pin system, the mats are held firmly in place and can be removed when necessary.  It has a five year warranty and is guaranteed not to curl up at the edges. See Environmental Molding Concepts, San Bernardino, CA.

$7,600**

Poured-in-Place

Poured in place is composed of a sub-layer of shredded rubber with a thin, granular top.  It is generally softer than rubber tiles because it is not as compact, but this also leads to a shorter life span since the urethane bond will begin to deteriorate, especially under a tropical sun.  Poured in place must also be installed by a trained staff who can keep a uniform top.  Before choosing this option, ask an installer to see an example of their work that is at least five years old. 

$10,500**

* All loose-fill surfacing costs include the used of a subsurface, drainage system.  This is primarily composed of two layers of a weed barrier, four inches of rock, and PVC pipe.  Without this drainage, weeds will quickly penetrate the surfacing and materials such as sand quickly compact. Quotes are based on a critical fall height of at least eight feet.

** Cost does not include a subsurface layer of either compacted rock or concrete.  Compacted rock with a timber or concrete border costs between $3,000 and $5,000.  A concrete surface will cost between $10,000 and $15,000 and is best used in very wet climates.