Outdoor Surfacing

Deciding on Your Foundation

Every outdoor area needs to take into consideration what it needs from the ground up. This means planning for the surface of your project at the beginning, and considering safety, usability, maintenance, long term and installation cost.

What to Consider

  • 1

    Age of users of your space:

    Little ones do best with smooth, soft surfaces for safe running and no material to end up in mouths!!

  • 2

    ADA accessibility:

    While many material are ADA approved, smoother surfaces without loose material to get stuck in wheelchairs, is a better choice.

  • 3

    Maintenance:

    Some materials require regular maintenance while others require nearly none.

  • 4

    Installation cost:

    Installation costs can vary, but often balance out with product lifespan and maintenance costs.

Pros:

  • Colors & designs
  • Uniform, no-trip surface
  • Inhibits microbial growth
  • Long lasting
  • Minimal maintenance

Cons: 

  • Higher cost to install
Poured in place Rubber

Pros: 

  • High safety
  • Low maintenance
  • Moderate install cost

Cons:

  • Warping due to temperature change diminishes safety
  • Shorter lifespan
Rubber Tiles

Pros:

  • Low cost to install
  • Moderate safety

Cons:

Needs regular maintenance, inspection & addition of material to maintain safety over time

Engineered Wood Fiber

Pros:

  • Long lifespan
  • Low maintenance
  • Low water needs
  • No mowing
  • Unaffected by extreme weather

Cons: 

  • Higher installation cost
Artificial Turf

Pros:

  • Once Installed, No Maintenance
  • Grass Continues to Grow 
  • Durable & Long-Lasting 
  • Quick & Easy Installation 
  • ADA Approved 
  • Safety Tested  

Cons: 

  • Higher upfront cost 
Grass Mats

Pros:

  • Multiple colors
  • Lower instal cost
  • Lasts longer than wood
  • Less microbial activity

Cons: 

  • Needs regular maintenance, inspection & addition of material to maintain safety over time
Shredded Rubber