The playground construction process is an exciting venture that will create one of the most ideal playground spaces for children. Every playground should be made with careful planning, engineering, safety considerations, and most importantly, creative imagination. Here are more details about how these play spaces come to be.
Just as Rome wasn't built in a day, playgrounds need to undergo several stages and timelines for their creation. Here is an overview of the initial playground construction process:
Understanding the playground's purpose and target audience is a key step in establishing the overall goal and vision. This step defines the main characteristics and design of the playground amenities, whether it's school playground equipment for school locations or accessibility features for inclusive playgrounds. The user profile will also determine the play equipment level depending on the target age group (6-23 months, 2-5 years, 2-12 years, and 5-12 years) as well as the maximum capacity for weight and number of users.
Physical location is another important factor for the playground's size and number of indoor or outdoor playground equipment. Other elements like sunlight, terrain, drainage, and potential hazards should also be assessed properly before settling on the final location.
Once the purpose, target audience, and site are determined, a budget can now be formulated. Research and free project calculators offered by websites can provide rough estimates of playground expenses. Installation fees, additional accessories, and permits should also be included on top of playground equipment costs.
Aside from the budget, an estimated timeline should also be prepared to ensure the playground is completed without delay. Outline some key milestones from design to the playground opening to keep track of the project direction and progress.
Age-appropriateness, durability, and safety features are crucial when selecting indoor or outdoor play equipment. Offer different playground equipment types to match varying needs, interests, and capabilities. Consider installing accessible features to make the playground more inclusive for children of all abilities.
Playground themes provide a unified overview of the playground's purpose and target audience. Prepare a concrete visual layout that includes the design or color scheme, playground equipment placement, and overall aesthetic appeal to have a basis for the final playground project. Safety considerations such as clearance, fall height, and appropriate pathways should be integrated to ensure an overall efficient and safe playground design.
Safe playground designs should be incorporated into every play area, especially commercial spaces. The playground should adhere to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards, and the American Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for ensuring playground safety even inside one's own backyard. Additionally, observe the local, state, and national regulations, and acquire necessary permits from relevant authorities.
The materials used in playground equipment and areas should be carefully chosen to complete a durable and safe playground design. From functionality to lifespan, here are some factors that affect the selection of both indoor and outdoor playground equipment:
Want to know more about the materials commonly used in playground equipment? Here is a related, in-depth article: What Materials Are Typically Used For Playground Equipment?
Age-Appropriate Design: Safe play area designs should include age-appropriate and challenging equipment that target users can manage properly and safely.
The playground construction process starts with planning and ends with the installation and assembly of the complete indoor or outdoor playground equipment.
The site should be clear of debris or obstacles, and the ground should be leveled for proper playground equipment installation. Mark the layout of the play components to ensure simple and correct positioning and installation.
The foundation should be made well and sturdy before any playground equipment assembly. Consider pouring concrete footings below ground level for a stable base. Install appropriate ground anchors to restrict movement or tipping of the playground equipment during kids' active play.
For DIY installations, follow the manufacturer's instructions properly, and use appropriate tools to ensure the outdoor playground equipment's safety and longevity.
Curious how professionals like AAA State of Play bring these playground structures and play spaces to life? Check out these insider videos:
The Full Installation of a Playground Structure: Step by Step - YouTube
Playground Shipping and Installation (youtube.com)
Safe playground surfacing surfaces such as rubber mulch, wood fiber, and rubber wear mats should be installed to reduce tripping or falling injuries. Barriers or borders should be installed around the playground equipment and perimeter to contain loose-fill surfacing materials and prevent displacement over time. Add additional non-play structures like shade, benches, and signage for comfort and a smoother playground experience.
For the final touch before opening the playground for public use, run several tests and inspections to ensure stability and safety in the play space and outdoor play equipment. Address any issues immediately to remove potential hazards. Ensure the entire play area and playground structures are free from construction debris and tools to maintain cleanliness.
Every play space in a community park, school, or other commercial space is created with the children's smiles and enjoyment in mind. Here at AAA State of Play, our business is to ensure that the entire playground equipment and space construction process is handled with care and attention to suit different purposes and budgets. Contact us today for your custom playground design or installation needs.
Learn about the author: Ben Thompson
