What to Put Under a Swing Set

Swing sets are an excellent way to bring happiness and joy into any backyard, bringing children endless enjoyment. With pleasure, however, comes the responsibility of ensuring that they are secure. Among possibly the most important decisions that go into putting in a swing set is choosing the right ground surfacing. Knowing what to put under a swing set can be a colossal factor in whether it's safe, durable, and how much maintenance it will need. 

Here, we’ll explore the best materials to put under a swing set, along with tips for installation and selecting the right option for your family.

Different Types of Swing Set Surfacing Materials 

Choosing a surfacing material for your swing set is not just about appearance. It is a critical role in preventing injuries, as it will dissipate the shock of falls and create a safer playing surface. Whether you're setting up an outdoor playset or even an outdoor playhouse, choosing the right playground surface material is key.

Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF) 

Engineered wood fiber (EWF) is a cheap and readily available option that also appears natural. It's specifically designed for playground use and is also compressible when subjected to pressure, making it a safe and padded surface. It is a good shock absorber, so it is ideal to dampen the shock of falling. This being said, it does require upkeep in order to keep it flat, as it will shift and become dense over time. For families looking for what to put under an outdoor playset, EWF is a great budget-friendly choice.

Rubber Mulch 

Rubber mulch is excellent for swing sets and has superb shock-absorbing and longevity. Made from things like recycled tires, it is eco-friendly. What’s more, it does not rot like natural products and is low maintenance. The bright color provides a fun touch to any outdoor area. It is a more costly choice initially than natural products. However, if you're deciding on the best thing to put under a swing set, rubber mulch is a strong contender for durability and safety.

Pea Gravel 

Pea gravel is an inexpensive, easy method for covering swing set ground. Pea gravel consists of small, round rocks that provide fair shock absorbing and superb draining, so no water puddles will form. This material is simple and inexpensive, but perhaps not a very good choice for small children since it's hazardous when in the mouth. It's also a practical solution for families figuring out what to put under an outdoor playhouse, providing solid drainage.

Sand 

Sand is a traditional outdoor playground surface that is cheap and easy to install. It is a soft fall surface and ideal for sensory play. Sand does require replenishment periodically because it will diminish out over time. It also attracts outside critters such as ants or stray cats, so it must be cleaned and covered up frequently. For families exploring what to put under a swing set, sand offers a classic, affordable option.

Poured-in-Place Rubber 

Poured-in-place rubber offers permanent, unbroken safety. It offers a smooth, slip-free, weather-tight surface with high shock absorption. Because of its highly durable nature with almost no maintenance required, it is a very widely used option in commercial playgrounds. Its high-end price, however, makes it out of reach for some homeowners. But for those willing to splurge while planning to buy a swing set, this material is great in terms of safety and longevity.

Artificial Turf 

Synthetic turf is a low maintenance, grass-like substance with longevity and security. It’s typically padded underfoot to make it shock-absorbing, and it is a low-maintenance, nice alternative to natural grass. Closely resembling grass as it appears to be, it's stunning in any backyard. Although more expensive than some of the others, its duration justifies its greater cost. If you're looking for what to put under an outdoor playset that combines aesthetics and practicality, artificial turf is a premium choice.

The Right Surfacing for Your Needs Jordan Beriault

The kind of surfacing material to use is determined by numerous factors like your budget, your children's age, and the way your backyard should appear. For affordability, materials like pea gravel, EWF, and sand are satisfactory enough. Those parents who would want little upkeep, but maximum endurance, would not make a mistake in using rubber mulch, poured-in-place rubber, or synthetic turf.

All in all, the best material for your swing set is one that is safe, durable, and fun so that your kids can play safely (and you can sleep soundly at night!). The proper surfacing investment will not only make you build a playground, but a safe haven that brings out joy and active childhood memories. Choosing the right playground surface material ensures both safety and lasting enjoyment for your family.