STM Playground Flooring & Playground Surfaces

Education and Play In Colour’ is a system we’ve designed to transform outdoor learning and play for kids. The aim of the game is to help pupils and teachers meet national curriculum requirements, and have a load of fun while doing it.

We understand that it can be pretty daunting to choose the right playground surfacing option. Since playground installation is an integral part of the development of a playground, it is important to meet the set requirements. This is especially the case considering the type of equipment to be used and the existing site. Our STM experts are always ready to explicitly explain all the benefits of all the types of surfaces and how best to install playground artificial grass. 

We ensure that we design all playground surfaces in-house while focusing on minimising the risk of injury on the playground artificial turf by offering impact absorbing capabilities unique to us. Furthermore, all our surfaces are ideal for children and adults alike. This explains why these surfaces are becoming increasingly popular in schools and nurseries all over the country. 

Our playground installers work hard to ensure that all the flooring options offered come with complete base construction and drainage schemes to ensure effective draining and performance standard for ball roll. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team in case you have any questions.. 

Choosing the best playground surfacing

Although there are a few people who may already know what they are looking for when it comes to playground surfacing, there is a large number who don’t know where to start. Since we are able to transform any space to the most fascinating play area, you can trust that you will receive only the best from our STM experts. 

When looking for the best playground surfacing, the first thing that should come to mind is engagement and enjoyment. This is because the best surfacing should be able to add to the enjoyment rather than inhibit. Therefore, it should be a viable addition to complement the surroundings while enabling children to have fun at the same time. 

It is also important to consider the aspect of colours and designs , depending on where you want the playground markings to be. In most cases, you can get a choice of four- synthetic surfacing, artificial grass, resin bound rubber mulch or wet pour rubber surfacing. To add a bit of pop to your playground, make sure you consider going for the bespoke option to include your logo, slogan or image on the surfacing. 

The surfacing styles we offer 

It doesn’t matter what type of flooring you have, we can easily transform it into thermoplastic playground markings. This will go a long way in brightening up your flooring. Furthermore, we can also create markings for classic playground games including hopscotch. 

If you want to install these surfaces on nurseries and have educational messages or designs, we can still make it happen for you. Educational designs can help young kids learn in an enjoyable and fun environment. Moreover, they enhance creativity and help them develop cognitively. 

It is also possible to create mazes and animals to spur the children’s imaginations. We have everything that you could think of to ensure that you are satisfied with our services. A lot of planning and consideration goes into our projects to guarantee superior quality surface finishes. 

The safety of our playground surfacing 

It may be good to note that all our surfacing options available are Critical Fall Height certified and tested to ensure we meet the regulatory standards.  Therefore, if a child trips and falls, the risk of an injury would be minimal because they will fall on a well-cushioned surface. 

Moreover, the markings are non-toxic and have anti-slip coatings to reduce the chances of getting an injury due to bad weather conditions. All this is to ensure that your children play in a safe environment. STM delivers high-quality finishes from some of the best materials in the market. 

Durability 

STM pigments all the markings and they are all non-toxic to ensure longevity. Therefore, regardless of the surface you choose to go for, you can rest assured that it will last you years to come while staying as good as new even after years of excessive use. 

The materials are also completely weather-proof, which means you don’t have to worry about any of the natural elements destroying your playground surfaces. They are all fast-draining and porous, coming with warranties. 

Additionally, they only require minimal maintenance to ensure they stay in good shape. You only need to ensure that you clean by sweeping off leaves and litter. If there are traces of dirt and debris, you can use a pressure washer to get rid of the stains. However, you should always keep the surfaces free of solvents and paints because they can cause colouring, which can be challenging to get rid of. 

The Importance Of Choosing The Right Playground Flooring

Playgrounds are the epitome of freedom for children. They provide a play area where they can explore, learn and have fun with their friends. However, not all playgrounds are created equal.

Choosing the right playground flooring is crucial to ensure that children remain safe while enjoying themselves. Playground equipment & safety surfacing has evolved significantly over time, but safety concerns have remained constant. It is essential to choose a playground surface that minimises injuries (especially from falling) at play areas.

The right playground surface will absorb shock and reduce the risk of serious injury in case of an accident. Additionally, it should be durable enough to withstand wear and tear caused by active play. Regular maintenance and repairs are also necessary to keep your playground surface in good condition.

A well-maintained playground surface extends its lifespan and ensures continued protection for children playing on it. Therefore, choosing the right playground flooring is critical not only for safety reasons but also for long-term cost-effectiveness. The importance of selecting the proper playground flooring cannot be overstated.

With so many options available today, including rubber tiles, poured-in-place surfaces, and artificial turf, there is no excuse for not ensuring that your playground's surface meets appropriate safety standards. Children deserve nothing less than a safe environment to enjoy their childhood memories without any danger or fear of harm!


How these playground surfaces help children 


If designed with educational messages and images, our surfaces can be pretty effective educational tools for kids as they play around. This is an efficient way of turning learning into fun. This is why many teachers, parents, and experts agree that our services are some of the best out there. 

Since regular outdoor play is essential for developing kids’ cognitive development, we take what we do with these surfaces very seriously. 

Benefits of playground surfacing

Some of the benefits of surfacing your playground with us are: 

  • Incredible way of equipping kids with valuable social and cognitive skills.

  • Provides a fantastic platform to enhance teamwork amongst children.

  • Brightening what was once a plain schoolyard or field.

 

No matter the size of the project you have or what goals you intend to meet, our team of experts is always ready to listen to you and deliver on our promise. Feel free to fill out our contact form and we will be gladly in touch. 


To download our education brochure for loads of cool artificial grass and playground ideas, just click the link:

Download STM Education Brochure

“Opportunities to compete in sport and other activities build character and help to embed values such as fairness and respect.” National Curriculum for Physical Education

Playground surfaces

Outdoor Classroom Ideas:

  • Running tracks
  • Football
  • Letters
  • Numbers
  • Phonics

Playground Surface Ideas:

  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Birds
  • Hopscotches
  • Roads
  • Fish
  • Seahorses (whole underwater worlds, if you like)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Maintenance Requirements For Epic Playground Surfaces?

Playground surfaces require regular maintenance to ensure they remain safe and durable for children's play. The type of surface will determine the specific maintenance requirements, but common tasks include:

  • Removing debris such as leaves or rocks
  • Checking for any signs of wear or damage
  • Applying protective coatings if necessary

It is also important to regularly sanitise playground surfaces to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Neglecting proper maintenance can lead to injuries and costly repairs down the road. By staying on top of maintenance needs, playgrounds can continue to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children to exercise their imaginations and develop crucial social skills.

Can Playground Surfaces Be Installed On Uneven Ground?

When considering the installation of playground surfaces on uneven ground, it is important to take into account various factors that may affect the safety and performance of the surface. Uneven ground can lead to tripping hazards for children as well as cause damage to the playground equipment over time.

Additionally, an uneven base can result in low spots where water can accumulate and create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. It is recommended that before installing any type of playground surface, a thorough site inspection be conducted by a professional to ensure proper leveling and drainage measures are taken into consideration.

This will not only improve the longevity of the surface but also provide a safe environment for children to play freely without unnecessary obstacles or hazards.

Are Playground Surfaces Suitable For Indoor Play Areas?

When considering playground surfaces for indoor play areas, it is important to prioritise safety and durability.

Rubber flooring options are a popular choice due to their shock-absorbing properties and resistance to wear-and-tear.

Additionally, rubber flooring can provide a non-slip surface for children to play on, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

It is important to choose a flooring option that meets the specific needs of your indoor play area, taking into account factors such as foot traffic, age range of users, and overall design aesthetic.

By selecting a high-quality playground surface for your indoor play area, you can ensure that children have a safe and enjoyable experience while playing indoors.


How Long Does It Take To Install Playground Surfaces?

The installation time for playground surfaces can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the size and complexity of the play area. However, it is typically expected that the installation process will take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

During this time, the surface preparation work must be completed, including grading and leveling the ground, ensuring proper drainage systems are in place, and installing any necessary sub-base materials.

Once these steps have been completed, the chosen playground surface material can then be installed.

It is important to note that safety should always be a top priority during installation, and all necessary precautions should be taken to ensure that children will be able to use the play area without risk of injury or harm.

Can Playground Surfaces Be Customised With Different Colors And Designs?

Playground surfaces and flooring have come a long way in recent years, with the introduction of new materials and customisation options that allow for greater freedom and creativity.

One common question among playground builders is whether or not these surfaces can be customised with different colors and designs. The answer to this question depends largely on the specific product being used, as well as the manufacturer's capabilities.

Some companies offer a wide range of color options and design choices, while others may only offer limited customisation options. Ultimately, it is up to the buyer to decide what level of customisation they require for their playground project.

However, regardless of the specific surface chosen, it is important to ensure that it meets all safety standards and regulations before installation begins.

Conclusion

STM's Playground Surfaces offer an unparalleled level of durability and safety for playgrounds.

With minimal maintenance requirements, they are perfect for busy parks or schools where constant upkeep is not feasible.

Even on uneven ground, EPIC can be installed with ease, ensuring that children have a safe area to play regardless of the terrain.

For indoor play areas, EPIC Playground Surfaces provide a soft and cushioned surface that minimises injuries from falls.

Installation times vary based on the size of the project but typically range between 1-2 weeks.

The versatility of these surfaces allows customisation in colors and designs to match any aesthetic preference while still providing superior protection.

In conclusion, as a leading expert in playground flooring solutions, I highly recommend EPIC Playground Surfaces for their resilience, longevity, and safety features.

Their unique characteristics make them ideal for both outdoor and indoor environments alike.

Whether you're designing a new playground or upgrading an existing one, choosing EPIC guarantees your child's safety will always come first!

 



We understand the importance of physical activity for children. The idea behind EPIC is that children can participate in curriculum-required activities, and enjoy themselves, too. Agility, basic movements, control and balance, competitive games and coordination can all be practiced on a tailored EPIC surface. Our experience tells us that children and teachers love EPIC because its bright, colourful and safe.


We understand the importance of physical activity for children. The idea behind EPIC is that children can participate in curriculum-required activities,and enjoy themselves, too. Agility, basic movements, control and balance, competitive games and coordination can all be practiced on a tailored EPIC surface. Our experience tells us that children and teachers love EPIC because its bright, colourful and safe.Taking a break from the indoors can be inspiring and energising. Our EPIC surfaces can be designed to incorporate all sorts of numbers, letters, phonetics and educative games. Let’s nurture minds and bodies at the same time.

aerial view of school playground with roadway, shapes and number lineSt Cuthbert's Primary School EPIC Playground with roadway


Play areas are an essential component of childhood development, providing children with opportunities for physical activity and social interaction. However, these play areas can also pose potential hazards to children's safety if not adequately designed and maintained.

Synthetic Turf Management playground surfaces aim to provide a safe and fun environment for children while reducing the risk of injury.

One critical aspect in ensuring child safety is selecting appropriate materials. Playground surfacing should be impact-absorbing, preventing severe head injuries from falls or collisions with equipment. Materials such as rubber mulch, engineered wood fiber, and poured-in-place rubber offer excellent shock absorption properties that reduce the likelihood of significant damage upon impact. Proper installation also plays a vital role in maintaining adequate protection levels against fall-related injuries.

Our EPIC playground surfaces strive to create sustainable solutions without sacrificing performance quality. The durability of their products ensures they withstand wear and tear, minimising maintenance costs associated with repairs over time. Furthermore, proper maintenance practices such as regular inspections help identify any damages early on before they become potentially hazardous to children's well-being.

In conclusion, choosing the right playground surface for your school or nursery is crucial in promoting both safety and fun within play areas. With information about suitable materials available today, parents can make informed decisions regarding what type of playground flooring would best suit their needs while keeping kids safe during playtime activities.

Remember always to prioritise children's safety by investing in high-quality products like EPIC playground surfaces that guarantee maximum protection against accidents while allowing them to have fun freely!

Rubber tiles are a popular choice for playground surfaces due to their durability and safety. These tiles come in various sizes, shapes, and colours that can be customised according to the specific needs of play areas. Rubber tiles provide an excellent cushioning effect as they absorb shock, thereby minimising the risk of injuries associated with falls.

Playgrounds' equipment is often designed with children's safety in mind; however, accidents still occur. For this reason, it is essential to have a playground surface that offers sufficient protection against impact forces. Rubber tiles are an ideal solution because they provide superior traction even when wet or dry. Additionally, these tiles are resistant to weather elements such as rain, sun exposure, and temperature extremes.

When designing outdoor play areas, it is crucial to choose a suitable playground surface material that will not only protect children from injury but also enhance their overall experience. Rubber tiles offer unlimited design possibilities while providing the necessary safety features required by parents and caregivers alike.

Whether used on school grounds or public parks, rubber tiles offer a durable and safe option for any playground surface layout without compromising aesthetic appeal or functionality.

By selecting rubber tile flooring options for your playgrounds' surfaces you're investing in both quality and longevity ensuring playtime remains fun for years to come!

Poured-in-Place (PIP) surfaces have become increasingly popular in recent years as a playground flooring option. This type of surface is made up of two layers - a base layer and a top layer.

The base layer consists of recycled rubber granules, while the top layer can be customized with different colors, designs, and even logos. PIP surfaces are known for their durability and longevity, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as playgrounds.

One key advantage to choosing a PIP surface for your playground area is that it eliminates the need for tiles or other interlocking pieces. Unlike tile installations that may require frequent maintenance due to shifting or cracking over time, poured-in-place surfaces are seamless and do not contain any joints or seams where moisture could seep through.

This makes them easier to clean and maintain over time. When selecting a contractor to install your play equipment and surfacing, it's important to find someone who has experience working with poured-in-place surfaces specifically.

A skilled contractor will know how to properly mix and apply each layer in order to create a strong foundation that can withstand foot traffic, weather conditions, and heavy use from children at play. With these considerations in mind, poured-in-place surfaces offer both practicality and aesthetic appeal when creating safe play areas for children.