The right surface materials for a playground help children stay safe as they run, climb, swing, and jump. If you need new playground surfacing materials for your school or local park, consider wood chips. These chips offer a variety of benefits that make them a winning addition to any playground–review the top advantages here. 

Why Are Wood Chips a Quality Playground Surfacing Material? 

1. Excellent Shock Absorbency

Fick Supply Service's manufactured playground wood chips are size-controlled softwood and/or hardwoods that average 1"-2" in length and contain a maximum of 15% fine particles to aid in knitting. When at least 9 inches of these chips are present in a playground, they provide sufficient shock absorbency for falls up to 10 feet high. As a result, the risk of severe fall-related injuries decreases. 

2. ASTM 1292 & 2075 Compliant

Pea gravel can cause wheelchairs to partially sink, while rubber mulch does not pack down as efficiently. And since wood chips do not absorb as much heat as rubber mulch or pea gravel, they help children stay comfortable during summer. 

3. Curb Appeal

Rubber mulch is not known for its aesthetic appeal, while pea gravel provides visual benefits alone. Wood chips combine curb appeal with safety, contributing to classic playground designs with natural touches. And unlike rubber mulch, wood chips do not experience color leaching that can stain playground equipment, and children’s skin and clothes. 

4. Better for People & Environment

Using wood chips for playground surfacing is safe for children, as the organic materials do not have toxic chemicals or contain harmful substances. The shredded tires used to create rubber mulch often feature hazardous chemicals and substances, including phthalates that can affect children’s development and are toxic to many types of wildlife. Wood chip usage subsequently benefits human health and the environment.

If wood chips are ideal for your playground surfacing needs, contact Fick Supply Service. Serving the Wildwood, MO, community since 1994, this local company provides a wide variety of landscaping products, including certified compost and bulk mulch. Call (636) 532-4978 today to discuss your playground surfacing requirements or review products online. Like the Facebook page for the latest specials and updates.