Providing Children More Play
Value for Less Since 1999!
Value for Less Since 1999!
Call to Save on Safe Play!
800-853-5316
Depending on the type of surfacing you have, different factors will have to be considered. Older PIP or rubber tile surfacing will need to be inspected for deterioration, while loose fill surfacing will need refills and checked for foreign objects & debris. Ask a consultant about our playground wear mats to help your surfacing last longer!
Rainy weather is unavoidable. Your entire outdoor play area must have satisfactory drainage, especially in heavy use areas such as under swings and at slide exits. This will reduce the risk of slips, bacteria, bugs and other hazards on the playground.
While our safety inspectors will thoroughly examine any playground equipment for any general hazards the day of installation, damage may take place over time. Make it a habit to check your play space for any sharp points, missing protective caps, open S-hooks and other general playground maintenance hazards monthly.
Depending on the age of your playground, components may become loose or wobbly. It’s important to inspect playground equipment with moving parts like swing hangers, bearings and track rides. If you find yourself having to do frequent repairs, it may be time for a new play set.
Visual aspects of wear and tear like rust, rot, cracks or splinters on playground equipment are good indicators of bigger problems. It’s important to remember site amenities as well. Be sure to ask your sales consultant about playground equipment warranties to see if these damages can be covered.
As summers get hotter, paint can struggle to stand up to the abuse. Make sure the paint (especially lead paint) is not peeling, cracking, chipping or chalking. To greatly improve the life cycle of your playground, ask a play consultant about adding shade structures to your existing or new playground.
Since the founding of the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association, or IPEMA, there has been a trend in playground signs that help to educate users on the proper ways to use playground equipment while promoting safe play.
"IPEMA has taken a leadership role in providing and sharing information through its website and through its individual members," says IPEMA board member, Tom Norquist. "IPEMA has worked on how to properly site appropriate signage as it pertains to the age of the prospective user. Also, this signage is for coaching users to check out the playground before putting their kids in that environment."
When it comes to harsh Winter wear on your playground equipment, WD-40 can be your best friend. Treat joints and bolts during the colder and rainy months to help avoid rusting and corrosion and keep your equipment functional for the long haul. Other affordable playground maintenance tools that can come in handy are: