In the past, there were only two options for play surfaces. You could install authentic grass; these were the most prominent and the most appropriate play surfaces you could find. A quality grass that is maintained well will last for decades. However, there are some pretty large expenses incurred with maintaining an authentic grass play surface. First, you have to have the sod installed. The right type of grass for a play surface does not always grow everywhere; therefore, it will likely need to be bought from a supplier. Then, the grass needs to be installed, and after it has been integrated into the field, it still needs to be maintained.
Grass needs to be cut every few weeks during the summer. During seasons without much rain, it needs to be watered regularly. It also needs to be fertilised from time to time to keep it growing healthy. You could do all of that yourself or hire someone to do it; either way, it is a great burden that will cost you a lot of money. Fortunately, the alternative is no longer just turf. The turf of the past was hard and did not resemble grass at all.
New Synthetics
The new synthetic grass that is being used by many schools for their play surfaces is superior to turf in every way. In many ways, it’s actually superior to authentic grass. The new synthetic school sports surfaces are made from individual blades of synthetic grass that are sewn into a backing layer. They are essentially created the same way that a carpet is created. Since it is made of individual blades of synthetic grass instead of one solid surface, it mimics the function and feel of grass better. Additionally, tiny pellets of rubber are seeded throughout the surface. The rubber acts as the soil for the grass and helps to cushion the ground.
Rubber Cushions
The tiny rubber pellets are great for playing because they mimic soil; that means they will help you create the proper play surface. For tennis courts at a school, you might want to use enough pellets to slow down the ball and help kids learn to play the game. For a futsal or a footy field, you want thick rubber to cushion any potential falls. When you’re installing a play surface for your school, you should consider the crash rating of the surface as well. Children are going to fall while they are playing; while you cannot and should not protect them from every kind of injury, you should work to reduce the number of injuries. A good layer of rubber pellets can help minimise the risks to your children.
Versatility
A synthetic field can be very versatile as well. You can paint many different types of lines onto the field in permanent or temporary paint. You can turn a footy field into a football field with just a few lines. Just as quickly, a footy field can become a rugby pitch; these are just a few of the different ways you can benefit from a synthetic play surface.
