Playgrounds are essential for children's physical and social development as well as providing a hub of joy and activity for the community.
This safe and fun environment is constantly exposed to the elements – from scorching heat to pounding rain to driving snow -- weathering can take a toll on the lifespan and safety of playground equipment.
It’s important to understand the options and best practices for protecting your playground equipment from the wear and tear of weather.
“Your playground equipment should provide several years of use. Sun shades over the playground help reduce the impact of UV rays on the finish and the equipment to reduce sun damage. They may also offer some protection from precipitation. Even covered playgrounds should have adults check that the equipment does not have water, ice, or snow on it after a weather event before allowing kids to play on it,” advises Miracle Recreation.
Let's look closer at the different elements that can affect your playground equipment:
This past summer was unlike any we have experienced before with NASA announcing that it was the Earth’s hottest summer since global records began in 1880.
This can be bad news for little ones with some news stations measuring playground equipment at 137 degrees in blasting heat.
Over time, the sun and its UV rays can take a toll on playground equipment:
When the rain comes, playground visitors head for protection but playground equipment is exposed to the effects of moisture.
Water and freezing temperatures do not mix well together as when water freezes, it expands, and this can lead to cracks in concrete surfaces and damage to playground equipment made from other materials.
For some areas of the country, snow and ice are a challenge over the winter months with a risk of not only playground equipment damage but falls and injuries to those hearty enough to brave the elements.
Sudden hailstorms can not only be scary for playground goers, but their impact can damage playground equipment.
Wind can carry debris, such as branches, leaves, and trash, which can pose hazards to children playing on or around the equipment. Strong winds can also exert force on playground equipment, potentially causing it to sway, tip over, or break.
Living by the seashore certainly has its charms but one of them is not the harmful corrosion effects of sea spray and saltwater on playground equipment.
Extreme weather events pose their own special risk to playground equipment.
The much-needed rain earlier this year in California, for example, had consequences then flooding left several inches of mud on one school campus, destroying playground equipment.
What to look for:
Hurricanes and Tornadoes
Flooding
Wildfires
While playground equipment will always be exposed to the elements, there are some best practices for protecting playground equipment from the wear and tear of weather:
By following these guidelines, you can help to extend the lifespan of your playground equipment and ensure that it remains a safe and enjoyable place for children to play.
Remember, shade structures, regular maintenance, and preventative measures are key to minimizing the impact of weather on your playground.
While playground equipment updates usually take place every 8 to 10 years, protecting your equipment from the weather can help extend its life well beyond 10, 15, 20, or more years.