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Playground safety has greatly improved over the last few decades. Part of it has to do with safer play structures, but another important factor is the surfacing materials used. There are many different options on the market, but one of the best is pea gravel. Why? Below, Hilltop Basic Resources in Cincinnati, OH explains some of the top benefits of using this type of gravel for playgrounds.

There are many advantages to using gravel for a playground, including:

  • Shock Absorbency: Because of its smooth shape, pea gravel makes for a good shock absorber on playgrounds, especially for swing sets. In the event a child accidentally falls off a swing, they may feel shocked, but the correct depth of pea gravel will ensure they don’t suffer anything more than a few bumps.

  • gravelProperty Maintenance: When it rains, pea gravel allows the runoff to drain back into the groundwater supply, ensuring the playground doesn’t flood. Gravel also prevents weed growth, making work easier for property maintenance staff. The main type of maintenance gravel requires is simply periodic raking or shoveling to ensure it’s at least 12 inches deep.

  • Safety: Stone is non-combustible, making pea gravel safer than the other popular option, rubber mulch—especially on hot days. Additionally, pea gravel does not contain the same toxic chemicals as rubber.

  • No Animals: Softer materials, like sand, are useful for sandboxes, provided they have a lid or are otherwise protected from feral animals. If not, they may attract animals, such as cats and raccoons, which can render a play area unsanitary. If you’re concerned about urban wildlife, choose pea gravel as the most sanitary option.

If you’re looking for outstanding building materials in the Tri-State area, including gravel, sand, and crushed stone, you’ll find them at Hilltop Basic Resources. For questions about their products, give them a call at (513) 684-8200. For more information, visit their website.

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