Researching mulch materials is an important step in playground design, whether for a school, daycare center, park, home playground, or other location. Upon learning about the variety of ground covering materials available, people often wonder, is rubber mulch better than wood mulch? Take a look at these comparisons of their features and decide which is best for you. 

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Is Rubber Mulch Better than Wood Mulch?

The Best Wood Mulch Available

EWF mulch (engineered wood fibers) is a specialized type of wood mulch that is created using only the pulpy interior wood fibers of a tree. Because this is less abrasive than traditional wood mulch with bark included, it&#;s the ideal wood mulch choice for playgrounds and other outdoor ground covering purposes. 

Cost of Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch 

Engineered wood fibers are an organic substance, meaning that they are an affordable, abundant resource. In comparison to synthetic playground fill like rubber mulch, EWF mulch doesn&#;t cost as much. PIP rubber mulch, crumb rubber mulch, and other synthetic turf materials will have a higher upfront cost, whether the material is new or recycled. This is because the process of rubber creation is much more involved than sourcing organic wood fibers. 

Environmental Impact 

As an artificial substance, rubber can take many years to break down. Recycled rubber mulch that has been created from other rubber products is a better alternative for the environment than new rubber, but it still won&#;t blend in with the natural ecosystem. Bits of rubber mulch may be found buried in soil years after the playground is removed.

A professional should be hired to remove the top layer of soil and get rid of all rubber particles after rubber mulch removal. Rubber mulch is often made from old tires, which can contain chemical pollutants and contaminate soil. Plants can be harmed by rubber mulch because heavy metals like zinc are released into the soil, which causes chlorosis. This is a condition in which leaves don&#;t produce enough chlorophyll, leaving them with discoloration and pale pigmentation.

EWF playground mulch blends into the surrounding ecosystem. This wood mulch replenishes soil when breaking down into fibrous particles, which can add valuable nutrients to your topsoil. It can also strengthen the structure of soil, making it easy to till. Nearby plants benefit from EWF mulch because the mulch prevents the loss of moisture in soil, and the increased soil quality allows vegetation to thrive. Wood mulch also absorbs rainwater, reducing the severity of playground flooding. 

Longevity

Rubber mulch can last up to 20 years or more, but that isn&#;t necessarily a good thing. The inability to break down in the environment is a signifier of unnatural materials that are disruptive to surrounding ecosystems. The longevity of wood playground mulch is a few years shorter than rubber mulch, but it decomposes at a decent rate. Maintenance heavily impacts how long EWF mulch will last.

Appearance

The appearance of playground mulch is a significant feature for some when choosing between rubber mulch or wood mulch. Rubber mulch can come in a variety of artificial colors, but EWF playground mulch is a beautiful, natural brown designed to blend into the surrounding environment.

Maintenance

To maintain a healthy layer of mulch, EWF mulch should be replenished or topped off every couple of years, if not annually. Rubber mulch does not require any significant maintenance unless it is somehow damaged by spilled substances or if it develops mold. Mulch is a low-maintenance ground covering overall. 

Safety

Natural is always safer, and safety should be prioritized when considering the well-being of children. Recycled rubber mulch releases gaseous volatile organic compounds, also known as VOCs. The release of these gases is accelerated by heat, so it is especially dangerous in the summer. VOCs can lead to health issues, such as nausea, liver and kidney damage, sinus irritation, and more. It is also suspected that they can be considered a carcinogen. 

Wood playground mulch, on the other hand, is a safe choice that will considerably reduce the impact of a fall without releasing harmful chemicals. EWF playground mulch offers more cushion than sand or gravel, minimizing injuries and providing superior shock absorption. 

EWF Mulch Installation Process

Get a Free Quote

Customers can contact our team at Superior Groundcover for a free estimate on their project. We can answer any questions you may have about EWF playground mulch and its maintenance. 

Choose Your Mulch Material

We have new and recycled EWF mulch. You can choose which you&#;d like to have in their playground. 

Enjoy One-Day Installation

Playground mulch installation won&#;t shut down your playground for more than a few hours. With the efficiency of our specialized Express Blower® trucks, we can install the mulch and let kids resume playing on your playground within the same day. 

Superior Groundcover&#;s EWF Playground Mulch Installation

When deciding between rubber vs. wood mulch playground installation, the best choice should be clear. Though rubber mulch might last long and come in different colors, EWF mulch is the most beneficial form of wood mulch. It is a sound solution for environmental protection and the safety of children. Your playground&#;s wood mulch will cushion kids if they fall and result in a neat, presentable atmosphere for children to play in. Reach out to us for speedy EWF mulch installation services today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Mix Rubber Mulch with Wood Mulch?

When considering a rubber vs. wood mulch playground, some consider implementing a mixture of the two. If you plan on using rubber mulch, including a layer of EWF mulch over it is beneficial. This prevents the rubber from reaching high temperatures and minimizes the release of VOCs. 

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Is Rubber Mulch a Fire Hazard?

Rubber mulch can be considered a fire hazard. A Consumer Reports test found that rubber mulch for playgrounds burns faster and is harder to put out than wood mulch. This is because rubber mulch often contains petroleum byproducts.

How Are Rubber Mulch and EWF Playground Mulch Made?

EWF mulch is created from the fibers inside a tree, not including its bark. This fiber is softer and provides a better cushion. Rubber mulch for playgrounds is most commonly created by shredding tires after removing metal and then dyeing the shredded bits. Other rubber materials can also be used to create rubber mulch.

DIY Guide to Installing Rubber Mulch on Playground Surface

Playing outdoors is essential for a child's physical and mental development. It allows them to explore, release energy, and develop important social skills. If you're looking to create a safe and fun play space in your backyard, installing rubber mulch under your playground equipment is the perfect solution. Rubber mulch offers a number of advantages over traditional materials like wood chips or gravel, making it a popular choice for families.

This DIY guide from Dashmesh Rubber, a leader in sustainable tyre recycling solutions, will walk you through the steps of installing rubber mulch for your playground, ensuring a safe and enjoyable play area for your children.

Why choose rubber mulch for the playground?

Rubber mulch provides several benefits that make it an ideal choice for playground surfacing:

• Safety: Rubber mulch absorbs impact, which helps to cushion falls and minimize injuries. This is especially important for young children, who are still developing their motor skills. The playground safety standard from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends specific critical fall heights [for different playground equipment] and using loose-fill surfacing materials that meet those requirements.
• Durability: Rubber mulch is resistant to rot, decay, and fading, making it a long-lasting solution that requires minimal maintenance. Unlike wood mulch, which breaks down over time, rubber mulch will stay in good condition for many years.
• Low Maintenance: Rubber mulch requires minimal maintenance compared to other materials. You won't need to worry about topping it up as often as wood mulch, and it's easy to keep clean by raking away leaves and debris.
• Accessibility: Rubber mulch provides a smooth and even surface that is easy for children of all abilities to navigate. This is especially important for children who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
• Aesthetics: Rubber mulch comes in a variety of colours, allowing you to create a visually appealing play area that complements your backyard design.

 

Things You'll Need for DIY Rubber Mulch Installation:

• Tape measure
• Shovel
• Rake
• Landscape fabric
• Utility knife
• Wheelbarrow (optional)
• Rubber mulch (amount will depend on your play area size and desired depth)
• Safety glasses and gloves (recommended)

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Rubber Mulch for Your Playground:

• Measure Your Play Area: The first step is to measure the length and width of the area where you will be installing the rubber mulch. This will help you determine how much mulch you need to purchase. Remember to factor in the perimeter around the play equipment to ensure proper cushioning.
• Prepare the Ground: Remove any existing rocks, sticks, or debris from the play area. You want to create a smooth and level surface for the rubber mulch. You may need to use a shovel to level out any uneven areas.
• Install Landscape Fabric: Lay down a weed barrier or landscape fabric over the entire play area. This will help to prevent weeds from growing through the rubber mulch and will also help to keep the mulch in place. Secure the landscape fabric with landscape staples or sod staples to prevent it from shifting.
• Spread the Rubber Mulch: Once the landscape fabric is in place, you can begin spreading the rubber mulch. Start by pouring a thin layer of mulch (around 2-3 inches) and then rake it evenly across the entire area. Make sure to fill in any gaps around the playground equipment.
• Desired Depth: The recommended depth for rubber mulch on playgrounds is typically 3 inches, according to the CPSC guidelines. However, for areas with higher fall heights from specific equipment, a greater depth may be required.  Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific playground equipment and the CPSC guidelines for critical fall heights.
• Top up and maintain: Over time, the rubber mulch may settle or compact. You may need to add additional mulch periodically to maintain the recommended depth. You can also rake the mulch occasionally to help distribute it evenly and prevent it from becoming matted down.

 

Additional Tips for DIY Rubber Mulch Installation:

• Choose the Right Type of Rubber Mulch: There are different types of rubber mulch available, such as shredded rubber and rubber tiles. Shredded rubber mulch is a loose-fill material that is similar in appearance to wood chips. Rubber tiles are interlocking pieces that create a more stable surface. Shredded rubber mulch is generally more affordable and easier to install, while rubber tiles offer a more finished look and may be easier to maintain.
• Source Your Rubber Mulch Responsibly: When purchasing rubber mulch, look for a supplier that uses recycled rubber tires. This is a more sustainable option and helps reduce waste. You can check with Dashmesh Rubber's rubber mulch to see if they offer playground-approved rubber mulch made from recycled tyres in your area.
• Think About Drainage: Rubber mulch is a relatively non-absorbent material. While it allows water to slowly percolate through, it's important to consider drainage, especially in areas that receive a lot of rain. You may want to create a slight slope in the ground to allow water to drain away from the play area.
• Safety First: When working with any type of mulch, it's important to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from dust or splinters.  Rubber mulch can also get quite hot in direct sunlight. Consider installing shade sails or structures over your play area to keep it cool during the summer months.

 

Conclusion

Installing rubber mulch for your playground is a great way to create a safe and fun space for your children. By following these simple steps and tips, you can ensure a successful installation and enjoy the benefits of rubber mulch for years to come.

If you're looking for high-quality, recycled rubber mulch for your playground project, Dashmesh Rubber can help. We offer rubber mulch products made from recycled tyres, perfect for creating a safe and durable play surface. Contact us today to learn more about our products and get a free quote.

By following this guide, you can confidently transform your backyard into a safe and fun haven for your children using the long-lasting benefits of rubber mulch! Check out the comparison between rubber mulch and wood mulch.

 

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