Surface Preparation
Careful Preparation and a Level Surface
The prep work needed when installing any type of rubber surface is a critical part of the process. It is very important to have a sturdy and level base to support the new play surface. Proper pitch for drainage is also key. All of our poured-in-place rubber and rubber tiles are completely porous, so runoff needs to occur underneath each playground. When installing new systems we recommend a minimum of a 4-6 inch compacted crushed stone base. Installations are also possible over existing concrete or asphalt. We meet and/or exceed ASTM safety standards F1951 and ASTM F1292 and we are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Pour-in-Place Rubber Surfacing Depths & Fall Heights
Our poured-in-place rubber playground surface (and for other safety surfaces) is always installed at proper depths to meet current ASTM HIC (head injury criteria) standards. Below are the required depths according to the fall heights of each play structure. In other words, how deep/thick does the poured rubber surface need to be for playgrounds?
| Fall Height | Surface Depth |
| 4 feet | 1.5 inches |
| 5 feet | 2.0 inches |
| 6 feet | 2.5 inches |
| 7 feet | 3.0 inches |
| 8 feet | 3.5 inches |
| 9 feet | 4.0 inches |
| 10 feet | 4.5 inches |
Need help planning & budgeting your surfacing project?
Construction Companies & Contractors
See how we can work with you to install a poured playground or pool deck surface for your next job.
+Schools, Churches & Daycare Centers
Learn how we can work with you to install a safe surface on your playground.
+Playground & Landscape Designers
We can work with you to install a safety surface on the play area for your community project.
+HOA & Community Associations
We will install safety surfacing on your neighborhood playground or common area.
+Frequently Asked Questions
It is very important to have a sturdy and level base to support the new play surface. Proper pitch for drainage is also key. All of our poured-in-place rubber and rubber tiles are completely porous, so runoff needs to occur underneath each playground.
Our poured-in-place rubber playground surface (and for other safety surfaces) is always installed at proper depths to meet current ASTM HIC (head injury criteria)
Proper site surface preparation depends upon potential fall heights, the surface depth increases accordingly. For example, a jungle gym or playground equipment would need a deeper playground surfacing to compensate for critical fall height potential, and meet current ASTM HIC (head injury criteria) standards.
| Fall Height | Surface Depth |
| 4 feet | 1.5 inches |
| 5 feet | 2.0 inches |
| 6 feet | 2.5 inches |
| 7 feet | 3.0 inches |
| 8 feet | 3.5 inches |
| 9 feet | 4.0 inches |
| 10 feet | 4.5 inches |
We meet and/or exceed ASTM safety standards F1951 and ASTM F1292 and we are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our surfaces are always prepared to compensate for critical fall height potential. Plus, our rubber safety surface is slip-resistant even when wet!
With proper surface preparation, rubber safety surfaces can last as long as 12-15 years. If maintained properly, this lifespan is easily attainable. The longevity it this rubber flooring product is one of its biggest selling points. Please see our product warranty.
Yes, Our safety flooring products consist mostly of recycled rubber material most of which are recycled tires. Read about our rubber flooring product specifications to learn more.
A rubber safety surface is a durable product and a fantastic outdoor flooring option. All of our rubber flooring options are 100% permeable – water drains right through it. Our customers are consistently amazed at the product’s ability to hold up in nearly any weather condition.