Childhood playgrounds have always been an essential part of the school environment. Indeed, they function as places where children can take part in enjoyable recreational activities, interact socially, and develop some important skills. For a long time, playgrounds had hard surfaces such as asphalt and sand.
Nowadays, we are seeing a conversion or switching of real grass to artificial turf on school grounds and it is time we do the same. Below we will see some reasons why artificial grass is about to conquer school playgrounds everywhere and the advantages it poses.
In this article
Benefits of synthetic turf for schools
Synthetic grass can be the right choice for schools that need to provide more secure and green space for the kids. Here are the benefits of synthetic turf and how it can enhance school grounds:
- Durability and Longevity
Turf artificial grass is known to be more resistant to wear and tear than the grass naturally occurring. It is made to withstand heavy use and to minimize weather dependence which in turn sustains the maintenance. Unlike natural grass which can get muddy, patchy, and torn if overused and the result of bad weather, artificial turf stays in great shape and is ready to use all the time.
The issue herein implies more distraction-free fun without the anxiety of harm originating from irregular surfaces. In addition, the beautification of synthetic turf stands the test of time without becoming fatigued for many years, which makes it last for schools.
- Safety Benefits
One of the reasons schools select synthetic turf for their playgrounds is the higher level of safety it guarantees. Children can play rough and take chances, therefore, it is important to choose the surface that is first and foremost safety-focused. Synthetic turf helps in several ways:
Cushioning Effect
Synthetic turf absorbs shock and lessens the extent of injuries that could occur from falls. This is particularly beneficial for toddlers as they may stumble more frequently during playtime.
Non-Toxic Materials
Synthetic turf is made of materials that are safe and non-toxic. This implies that children are more protected from the harmful chemicals found in traditional lawn care products, such as pesticides and fertilizers.
Allergen-Free
Allergies are not triggered by synthetic turf because it does not contain allergens. This feature is amazing for kids with grass or pollen allergies as they can enjoy their play without being afraid of facing reactions.
Consistent Surface
Artificial grass has a smooth, even surface that makes it difficult to trip and fall. Different from natural grass which could have uneven spots, synthetic turf retains its uniform look over time.
Good Drainage
Synthetic turf comes with a well-built and effective drainage system hence, preventing the formation of puddles and wet areas. This prevents puddles from forming which lowers the risk of people slipping and falling.
Temperature Control
Traditional synthetic grass can get warm, but there are cooler materials these days. This keeps the surface at a safer, more pleasant temperature for children to play on, even during the hot summer months.
- Economic Advantages
Schools might begin by considering the cost of synthetic playground turf installation near Atlanta, GA. However, over time it delivers substantial savings, and it is the reason why most sports facilities are paving the way to a field with synthetic turf. Here’s how synthetic turf helps schools save money in the long run:
Less Maintenance
Natural turf compared to artificial turf demands almost constant watering, mowing, and fertilizing that calls for both time and money. Synthetic turf has a low demand of care, occasional cleaning and grooming are enough. These save people money on maintenance fees.
No Watering Costs
Artificial grass does not require watering, meaning schools can pay less for water bills, even in regions with particularly hot weather.
Long Lifespan
Synthetic turf is the one that is capable of bearing the highest load of foot traffic. Since the materials used are highly durable, schools are not required for so many repairs and renovations as before due to the synthetic nature of the turf.
Year-Round Use
Synthetic grass can endure any weather conditions, which means students can play their sports on the ground simultaneously. It guarantees the highest achieved playground value per unit of available and useful land.
Lower Equipment Costs
Natural grassland maintenance means that one has to use for example, hand tools such as mowers and irrigation systems. Synthetic turf reduces such expenditure because it performs these functions by itself without requiring mowing or watering.
Safer Surface
Artificial grass has many advantages, as it is showcased when it comes to safety measures, and it can result in fewer injuries, which could save on medical expenses spent by schools or parents. This zero-toxic and relatively allergen-free quality of such products leaves no space for student health complications as well.
Fewer Interruptions
Unavailing natural grass fields can manifest from growth conditions such as unfavorable weather, leading to breakages in play and time spent outdoors. Synthetic turf does not have to be changed, which can be done the whole year round.
- Environmental Impact
Synthetic grass is well-known for the benefits it brings but also safeguards landscapes. Here’s how synthetic turf positively impacts the environment:
Water Conservation
Unlike grass, synthetic turf will not require watering. This is a way of saving water, which is of major importance for the areas where there is a water shortage or drought conditions.
Reduced Use of Chemicals
Chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers for natural grass care are toxic to the environment, especially that of the local ecosystem. Artificial turf does not use pesticides, which supports a healthy ecosystem. Hence, it is beneficial for the environment.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Since natural grass surface turf doesn’t need to be mowed or watered, the equipment and water consumed reduce carbon emissions.
Recyclable Materials
Contemporary synthetic turf products are mostly made from recyclable materials, while in the end, these products can be recycled instead of simply taken to a landfill.
Less Soil Erosion
Synthetic turf is not planted into the soil, which prevents soil erosion – a displacement of soil that irreversibly happens with natural grass during heavy rains and/or usage.
Preserve Natural Areas
Investing in synthetic playground turf installation near Vinings, GA, can help schools manage small portions of the natural grassland, thus saving costs and improving sustainability. This can help try to prevent the loss of the remaining natural areas and open spaces.
- Aesthetic and Functional Consistency
Synthetic grass creates a consistent appearance as well as a utility on school playgrounds, ensuring usability for the area and its aesthetic all year round. Here are the benefits:
- Always Green
Synthetic turf not only has the advantage of being green all year but it is also artificial, which can appear just like natural grass. This consistent greenery gives the school a more vivid and pleasant look.
- Consistent Surface
Contrary to natural grass, which might form holes and patches of mud, synthetic turf has a level, uniform surface. It eliminates the risks that these troublesome elements might cause for student safety, ensuring that the artificial field is reliable and in good condition.
- Weatherproof
The artificial grass stands for unique weather conditions like rain and heat. The playground remains in fine condition after the heavy downpour and can be used with no restrictions.
- Low Maintenance
A synthetic playground turf installation near Roswell, GA, requires little or no care at all for it to retain a clean and attractive appearance, thus saving time and effort while at it and keeping the playground looking good all the time.
- School Pride
A nicely maintained synthetic turf playground can uphold the school pride and electrical staff, as well as the students are proud of their needs.
Enhancing Play and Sports
Synthetic turf enhances the amusement and sports activities for students on school grounds, assuring a safe, reliable, and useful environment. Here’s how synthetic playground turf installation near Milton, GA, benefits play and sports at school:
- Uniform Surface
Synthetic turf provides a continuous and correct surface which ensures better performance to the players in all sorts of sporting and gisting events. Students can run, not trip, and play without meeting the bruises they possibly would elsewhere if they were on uneven ground.
- Customizable Markings
Schools can use sport-specific field markings as a component of synthetic turf to facilitate any sports, such as soccer, football, or basketball. The field has to be multifunctional so that different games and sports can be run simultaneously.
- Reduced Injuries
Below the surface, the synthetic turf cushioning factors help safeguard from injuries during games. It is essential for doing sports such as football or hockey to avoid falling and colliding.
- Year-Round Use
Synthetic grass can be used only in warm weather until it stays lush and green without any risk of mold or freezing. However, synthetic grass can be used in all seasons, even in rainy or hot weather. Thus, students can continue enjoying sports and outdoor activities without being too stopped by the snow season.
- Easy to Clean
The field’s even and smooth surface, like that of the playground turf installation near Johns Creek, GA, makes it easier for school authorities to clean up and maintain, and a smooth play area is always available for students.
Challenges and Considerations
While synthetic playground turf installation near Alpharetta, GA, offers many benefits, there are also some challenges and considerations to keep in mind:
Heat Absorption
Artificial grass can absorb heat which usually results in temperatures becoming unbearable in the playground during summer periods. Students, however, need to be monitored and provided with ample shade or water breaks, for instance where newer types of turfs have been put in place in an attempt to reduce heat retention.
Material Disposal
Dropping off the synthetic field to be disposed of is a challenge. Though some types of turf are recyclable, the ones that are not could be wasted. Education facilities can implement some recycling methods and partake with producers that offer single-use disposal solutions.
Initial Cost
The upfront expense of playground turf installation near Atlanta, GA, may be the highest. However, although in the long run, there may be lower maintenance costs, watering, and repairs, the main problem may be the original investment, particularly for some schools.
Maintenance Needs
While synthetic turf requires less maintenance as compared to natural grass, artificial turf must also be cleaned and groomed occasionally. The value of cleanliness and a repaired product is at risk if you do not maintain it properly, as its function and even its appearance are impacted.
Wear and Tear
The non-turf surfaces in high-trafficked areas will experience more degradation than the turf over time. Schools can employ integrity checks of the condition and let the turf be rotated or get rest periods, which makes it last longer.
Potential Injuries
Although synthetic turf is safe to navigate, some people are afraid of turf burns or other minor injuries. Aftercare through complete maintenance and records is an important step to help minimize these risks.
Quality Variation
The quality of synthetic grass can greatly differ from one brand to another, as the kind of turf that you purchase is the factor that influences its distinctness. Schools should pass through suppliers’ choice of a good vendor who will give you a lasting and quality product.
Conclusion
In conclusion, synthetic turf is a good solution for school playgrounds. It is hard-wearing, safe, low in cost, and environmentally friendly. It looks great all year long and adds to play activities. With the progress of technology, the heating and disposal of these issues are likely going to be resolved. The outlook of school playing fields is bright with artificial turf and is expected to be adopted more. Synthetic turf as an option will allow the school to have safer, enjoyable, and environment-friendly playfields for the students.
Synthetic Turf for School Playgrounds in Atlanta, GA
If you want to achieve the best results from school playgrounds with synthetic turf, select Great American Green! Our superior-quality synthetic grass further ensures the safety, durability, and beautification of the field day or night. Browse our website to learn more about our services and get a free estimation right away. Let us help you achieve a safer, greener, and more entertaining outside environment for your children.
Ready to upgrade your school playground with low-maintenance, cost-effective synthetic turf? Reach out to Great American Green for a free estimate and discover how we can make your playground project a success.