Covering Your Playground: Sand Vs. Wood Chips

Whether it is in your personal backyard or in a public park, installing a playground means choosing a groundcover. This groundcover material should be chosen very carefully, as it can impact a child’s safety while using the playground equipment. At GLM Landscapes, we proudly offer both sand and wood chips as popular options for playground cover. To help you make the best decision for your specific playground, we have considered each option in terms of

safety, maintenance, accessibility and personal preference.

Is Sand Better for Your Playground?

Safety: Sand provides a soft and cushioned surface that can help absorb falls, reducing the risk of injury. However, it should be regularly maintained to ensure an even and adequately compacted surface.

Maintenance: Sand requires periodic raking to maintain its level and prevent uneven areas or accumulation in certain spots. It may also need to be replenished periodically to replace any lost or displaced sand.

Accessibility: Sand may not be suitable for all playground users, especially those with mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers). It can be challenging to maneuver on sand, making it less accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Cleanliness: Sand can become dirty or contaminated, requiring regular cleaning or sifting to remove debris, litter, and animal waste.

Are Wood Chips More Suited for Your Playground?

Safety: Wood chips provide good impact absorption and can help reduce injuries from falls. However, it’s important to ensure that the wood chips used meet safety standards, such as being free from harmful chemicals and maintaining an appropriate depth.

Maintenance: Wood chips may need periodic raking or leveling to prevent unevenness and compaction. They may also require occasional replenishment to maintain an adequate depth for safety.

Accessibility: Wood chips can be more accessible than sand for individuals with mobility aids since they provide a firmer surface to move on. However, they may still pose challenges for some users, such as those with limited mobility or wheelchairs.

Cleanliness: Wood chips tend to accumulate less dirt and dust compared to sand. Regular removal of debris, such as leaves or branches, is necessary to keep the surface clean.

Let Us Help You Decide

If you need help determining which groundcover is best for your playground space, call our experts at GLM Landscape Supply. We have a keen understanding of what both sand and wood chips can offer in terms of safety, maintenance, cost and other details that may impact your decision.