5 Tips for Making Playground Surfacing Last Longer

5 Tips for Making Playground Surfacing Last Longer

Posted by Discount Playground Supply on Sep 10th 2025

Cracks, uneven spots, and general wear and tear in your playground’s surfacing can lead to liability concerns and costly repairs or replacements. Fortunately, with the right strategies, it’s possible to extend the life of playground flooring and keep maintenance more manageable. Start with these five tips to make your playground surfacing last as long as possible.

Choose the Right Surface To Start With

When you select high-quality materials from the outset, you lay the literal foundation for years of reduced maintenance and better performance.

One great choice is poured rubber playground flooring, which stands out for its exceptional longevity and durability. This seamless surface resists cracking, handles heavy foot traffic, and maintains its appearance even after years of use.

Install Flooring With Care

Proper site preparation, correct thickness application, and attention to drainage details all contribute to how well your surface will hold up over time.

Rushing through installation or cutting corners on preparation work often leads to premature failure and expensive fixes down the road. Take the time to get it right or, better yet, work with professional installers.

Keep It Clean and Free of Debris

Sweep away leaves, dirt, and other debris weekly to prevent staining and surface degradation. For deeper cleaning, power washing removes built-up grime and restores the surface’s original appearance.

Pay special attention to areas under swings and slides where debris tends to collect. These high-traffic zones need more frequent attention to prevent premature wear patterns from developing.

Remove Any Weeds That Pop Up

Landscaping is another one of the best tips for making playground surfacing last longer. Weeds and grass that sprout near or through surfacing can create cracks and uneven areas that compromise both safety and appearance.

Pull weeds by hand when they’re small, and consider applying appropriate treatments around surface edges to prevent future growth.

Inspect for Damage on a Regular Basis

Walk through your playground monthly, looking for signs of wear, cracking, or separation. Document any concerns with photos and measurements to track changes over time.

Quick repairs on minor damage prevent water infiltration, further cracking, and the need for complete surface replacement. You can fix most small issues affordably when you catch them early.

Protect Your Investment With the Proper Steps

Proper care and maintenance of your playground benefits everyone by ensuring a safe, enjoyable space for years to come. At Discount Playground Supply, we provide durable surfacing solutions designed to withstand active play while minimizing long-term maintenance needs. Contact us today to learn how our playground flooring options can deliver the longevity and performance your community deserves.