We are long past the days when the carpet hanger was the biggest attraction of the backyard and the only outdoor device children could use. Nowadays, the possibilities for arranging a beautiful playground for children and youngsters are really numerous! Whether you are thinking of creating such a space on the grounds of a nursery or a newly built housing estate, usually you have two options available for the construction raw materials — wood (glued laminated coniferous wood and Robinia hardwood) or metal (stainless steel and powder coated steel).
We will focus on the most popular playground structures. Remember, however, that in most cases these elements are mixed together, of course in varying proportions.
Therefore – which materials should predominantly be used to build a playground?
Metal playground — what should you know about it?
Playgrounds for preschools, schools, housing estates and parks can be largely made of metal and stainless steel, like AQUARIUS INOX or MINI playgrounds. First of all, INOX (French word inoxydable — meaning “non-oxidizing) is a material that will serve you for many years to come, as it is completely resistant to weather conditions, and its maintenance and upkeep takes much less time than in the case of solutions made of wood. The stainless steel playground guarantees a kind of maintenance-free nature of the playground.
Another kind of playground made of steel — this time powder coated — is the ACTIVE playground. The ACTIVE series is also an example of an interesting solution in terms of architecture. Remember that the shape of the devices, their color, or location should complement the surroundings and fit in with the urban nature of the neighborhood or city, together creating an aesthetic whole. Ingeniously selected and at the same time constructed playground carousels, swings, tube slides and open slides, rockers, climbing lines can add variety to the urban or residential landscape.
Playgrounds with metal elements are also a guarantee of safety. BUGLO features, among other things, inclusive playgrounds, which are suited to people with disabilities. In this particular case, metal forms the basis of the entire structure. It is made of black sandblasted-cleaned steel. Additional protection against corrosion is ensured by galvanizing and powder painting using polyester paints completely resistant to UV rays, which is confirmed by the QUALICOAT certificate. Stainless steel also plays an important role as a material for handrails to help children play safely. It’s worth noting that every element that may be exposed to direct contact with the user has been made of stainless steel, which is fully resistant to weathering and damage.
Is it worth betting on a wooden playground for kids?
A wooden playground for children made of coniferous wood is a common solution, especially for those concerned about naturalness and ecological solutions in the site plan. At BUGLO, the primary raw material is natural acacia Robinia wood, harvested without disturbing the biological wealth and structure of the forest. (as certified by the FSC certificate). So you can be sure it's a sustainable and eco-friendly solution! In addition, the large amount of oils contained in acacia is an excellent preservative against pests and decay processes. It should also be added that wood does not require painting, and potential cracks are associated with the naturalness of the material.
Such a square will fit naturally into the surrounding space. It will also be very well-suited for a green garden, or a large urban park.
Another type of wood BUGLO uses is glued laminated coniferous wood – used in the DINO SERIES. The polyurethane adhesives used are completely resistant to water. Additionally the material is subjected to a three-stage impregnation process.
At the beginning of this article, we mentioned that certain materials are often mixed together in playground structures. This is the case, for example, with multi-tower set with the Robinia slide. Here the structure is based on natural Robinia wood and only the rods, bolts and slides are made of stainless steel. BUGLO playsets are also created in other configurations. Choosing the right material is for safety and to guarantee the longevity of the products.
Where to get a playground design?
Want to design your playground? Do it with real experts in the industry! At BUGLO, a number of specialists will help you at every stage: from design and component selection to installation and subsequent maintenance. In addition, every step is taken in accordance with the letter of the law for the safety of children, youth and adults. So you can have confidence that you’re creating certified playgrounds.
What length and height should the slide be? Can you mix series of devices? How to match swings to the age of children?
There are no questions that BUGLO employees don't know the answers to. This is the result of experience, working within the guidelines of safety legislation and constantly observing the needs of our youngest clients. By working with designers you’ll be able to create playgrounds with wooden or metal structures, in a uniform design, according to your expectations.
Metal or wooden playground – summary
Wooden or metal playground? Acacia wood or coniferous wood? Inox or black powder-coated steel?
Everything depends on your financial capability, expectations as to the attractions, location of the playground or the demand for use by a certain number of children or adults (if you plan to build an outdoor gym). The choice is yours.
Remember, however, that the most important issue is always the same – that the devices are certified. Although aesthetics, usability, and materials of the devices are important, the safety of their users should come first.
