Top Benefits Of Choosing The Best Material To Use Under A Swingset
If you have children then it is inevitable you will, at some point, consider adding a swing set to your yard. It’s a great way to ensure they are having fun but to keep an eye on them at the same time.
However, even if you are watching them all the time it is impossible to prevent an accident from happening. That’s why you need to consider where your swingset is positioned and what floor is best to put under it.
Rubber Mulch
If you find yourself a reputable supplier of rubber playground flooring then you’ll quickly realize that this is not the cheapest option. However, it is difficult to beat this in the safety stakes. Rubber flooring is designed to absorb shocks, reducing the effects of impacts on your child and potentially saving them from being injured.
At the very least, any injury will be significantly less severe than it would be without rubber playground flooring.
It is worth noting that although the floor is more expensive than many other options it is the safest and requires very little in the way of maintenance. Combine this with the long lifespan of rubber and it becomes one of the most cost-effective options in the long term.
You should also note that rubber mulch flooring is available in a wide variety of colors, allowing it to blend into your surroundings at home or, if you prefer, it can make a statement.
You should also be aware that rubber mulch is not attractive to insects which makes it even more attractive to parents.
Issues With Rubber Mulch
While rubber mulch is an excellent choice for your under swingset floor, it is advisable to be aware of the disadvantages.
While the initial cost can be considered a disadvantage, this balances out in the long term.
But, in rare cases, this type of flooring can be flammable. It takes a special set of circumstances but it is possible and is something you need to be aware of.
In addition, rubber mulch is generally distributed in small pieces and these can be a choking issue for very young children.
Alternatives
If your budget won’t stretch to rubber flooring for your swingset then you may want to opt for something cheaper. Loose-fill materials tend to be the cheapest, that’s items like wood chips or sand. You’ll have to assess whether these give you the protection you need. The material can also move and an adult will need to distribute it regularly.
Pea gravel is another option that is surprisingly soft and good at impact absorption. But, the small nature of it makes it inevitable that little children will want to put it in their mouth
Sand is the third alternative and this is fairly good at absorbing shocks and preventing injuries. But, it will need moving around regularly and you’ll find that the sand gets everywhere, even throughout your home.
The best option for your swingset remains the rubber flooring, it may be time to start saving.