Spring Into Safe Surfacing with Carolina Recreation & Design

Spring is here, and you know what that means—warmer weather, longer days, and more outdoor time! But before the kiddos start running, jumping, and climbing, it’s time for some pre-spring maintenance to ensure your playground’s safety surfacing is in top condition. Winter weather can be harsh on outdoor surfaces. Freezing temperatures, heavy rain, and constant wear can cause surfacing materials to degrade, creating potential safety hazards. By taking action now, you can ensure your outdoor spaces are safe, durable, and ready for the busy season ahead.

At Carolina Recreation & Design, we specialize in safety surfacing solutions that protect and enhance your recreational space. Let’s explore the different types of safety surfacing and why maintaining it is a must!

Not All Playground Surfaces Are Created Equal!

Choosing the right safety surfacing can significantly impact the maintenance and longevity of your outdoor spaces. Single-unit surfacing options, like turf or rubber, are the easiest to maintain and provide consistent, reliable benefits without frequent upkeep. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best options:

• Turf: Artificial turf is a fantastic, low-maintenance solution that provides a natural, lush look without the hassle of real grass. It’s durable, drains well, and stays green year-round — perfect for high-traffic areas or spots that get a lot of use.
  
• Rubber: Rubber surfacing, whether poured-in-place or rubber tiles, offers excellent shock absorption and is incredibly easy to maintain. It’s also a top choice for playgrounds where safety is a concern, as it provides a cushioned landing in case of falls.
  

Mulch Maintenance: Top Off and Protect

If you’re still using mulch, don’t forget to top it off to keep it looking fresh and to ensure it offers maximum protection. However, if you’re tired of frequent refills and the hassle of mulch upkeep, consider switching to a more durable surfacing solution like rubber or turf.

Switch from Mulch to Turf or Rubber

Switching from mulch to a unitary surface is smart for low-maintenance, long-lasting surfacing. Turf and rubber are great options for those wanting a safer, cleaner, and more durable surface without constant replenishment.

Fall Protection and Safety

As we head into spring, outdoor play ramps up. Ensuring your surfacing offers proper fall protection is critical. Rubber and turf surfaces provide superior safety benefits, helping to cushion falls and reduce injuries—making them an excellent choice for playgrounds and high-traffic areas.

See the Difference: Mulch to Rubber Conversions

Check out some of our recent projects where we’ve helped clients convert their mulch areas to rubber or turf surfaces. The transformation enhances the visual appeal and provides a safer, more sustainable solution that will last for years to come.

Let Us Help You Get Ready for Spring!

Don’t wait until the first warm day to realize your playground needs a refresh. Contact Carolina Recreation & Design today at [email protected] for a safety surfacing evaluation, and let us help you create a safe, beautiful, and worry-free play space. In the meantime, check out some of our surfacing projects below!