School playgrounds are a significant part of children’s lives since they provide a means of playing and learning. However, one of the most important considerations when setting up safety in such an area has to do with the thickness of the mulch used. Playground mulch acts as a shock-absorbing material that cushions landings and might significantly reduce the incidence of injuries.
But how deep should playground mulch be? The answers will vary depending on the type of mulch used. This in-depth guide will help you figure out how deep a mulch should be on a playground.
Playground Mulch Types
Wood Mulch
Wood mulch is usually made from shredded bark or wood chips. It gives a natural look to a playground. Wood mulch has good cushioning properties and breaks down over time, adding organic matter to the soil.
Rubber Mulch
Mulch made from recycled tires is much more resilient, with enhanced shock-absorbing properties, as opposed to wood mulch. It doesn’t compact or decompose as much as wood mulch, so it can offer safe protection for a longer time.
Recommended Depths for Various Kinds of Mulch
Wood Mulch Depth
For wood mulch, a minimum depth of 12 inches is recommended. This depth provides adequate cushioning to help absorb the impact of falls from playground equipment, significantly reducing the risk of injury. This depth should be maintained regularly since wood mulch will decompose and compact with time.
Rubber Mulch Depth
Rubber mulch requires a depth of only about 6 inches. Its better shock-absorbing capacity means it can offer better protection with less material. In addition, rubber mulch does not compact or break down like wood mulch. For that reason, you can easily maintain the right depth over time.
How to Choose the Type of Mulch to Use
When choosing playground mulch, take into account the cost, maintenance required, and environmental concerns.
Wood Mulch: It has a lower upfront cost and is biodegradable, so it’s environment friendly. Nevertheless, it requires more maintenance.
Rubber Mulch: It has the highest upfront cost but is highly durable, which makes its overall maintenance cost relatively cheaper. It provides the best cushioning and the best safety.
Final Thoughts
The right depth for playground mulch should be around 12 inches for wood mulch and 6 inches for rubber mulch. For Kid-Safe™ Playground Mulch in Alpharetta, turn to the experts at Mulch Pros. We are a top supplier of mulch in Alpharetta and can help you determine playground mulch depth more precisely and offer you the best mulch delivery.
