What fall height does playground turf protect against?

This depends on the padding thickness we install. Standard playground turf with one inch of shock pad provides fall protection for equipment up to 6 feet high. For taller structures like climbing frames or slides, we can add additional padding layers to meet the required fall-height rating. We'll evaluate your equipment and recommend the appropriate system to meet ASTM safety standards.

Is playground turf safe for toddlers and young children?

Yes, absolutely. The materials are non-toxic and specifically designed for children's play areas. The soft surface is gentle on hands and knees for crawling toddlers. There are no splinters, sharp objects, or small pieces that could be choking hazards. The cushioned feel is comfortable for sitting and playing, and the antimicrobial options help keep germs at bay.

How do I clean playground turf?

Cleaning is easy. Remove any solid debris like leaves, sticks, or toys. For spills or messes, rinse with a hose and use mild soap if needed. The turf drains quickly, so it's ready for use again within minutes. For schools and commercial playgrounds, we recommend monthly brushing to keep fibers upright and periodic deep cleaning with specialized equipment. Most residential installations just need occasional rinsing.

Playground & Safety Turf

Safe, cushioned turf systems for playgrounds, schools, and play areas in Novato.

Safe playground artificial turf installation for kids play area in Novato, CA

A Safer Place for Kids to Play

When kids play, falls happen. That's why the surface under their feet matters so much. Playground turf provides a soft, cushioned landing that reduces injuries from falls. It's designed specifically for play areas, with extra padding and impact absorption that meets or exceeds national safety standards. Parents get peace of mind, and kids get a clean, comfortable place to run, jump, and play.

Unlike wood chips, rubber mulch, or sand, playground turf doesn't scatter, compact, or need constant replenishment. It stays clean, doesn't harbor insects, and provides consistent cushioning across the entire play area. Rain or shine, your playground is ready for use. No puddles, no mud, no splinters. Just safe, clean fun for kids.

Why Schools and Families Choose Playground Turf

Safety is the number one reason, but it's not the only one. Playground turf solves multiple problems at once. Here's what makes it the smart choice:

Impact absorption: Cushions falls and meets ASTM and IPEMA safety standards
Always clean: No dirt, mud, or mess tracked into the house or school
Wheelchair accessible: Smooth, firm surface for kids with mobility devices
No maintenance: Never needs replenishing like wood chips or rubber mulch
Allergy-friendly: No grass pollen, mold, or allergens
Splinter-free: Soft, comfortable surface with no sharp edges or debris
Weather-ready: Drains quickly and stays usable year-round

Safety Certified and Tested

Not all turf is safe for playgrounds. We use specialized playground turf with additional padding layers underneath that provide fall-height protection. The system is engineered to meet ASTM F1292 standards for impact attenuation, which means it's been tested and certified to reduce injury risk from falls. We can customize the padding thickness based on the equipment height and safety requirements.

Perfect for Every Play Space

We install playground turf for residential backyards, schools, daycares, parks, community centers, and homeowner associations throughout Novato. Whether you need coverage under a swing set, around climbing structures, or for an entire play area, we customize the installation to your needs. Common applications include areas under and around swings, slides, climbing structures, playhouses, and general play zones.

For schools and commercial playgrounds, we work within your budget and meet all local codes and ADA requirements. The turf provides a firm, stable surface that wheelchairs and walkers can navigate easily, making playgrounds accessible to all children. We can also incorporate colorful borders, designs, or educational elements into the turf layout.

Built to Handle Active Kids

Kids are tough on surfaces. They run, jump, dig, drag equipment, and play hard. Playground turf is engineered for this kind of abuse. The dense fiber construction resists wear and matting even in high-traffic areas. The backing material is strong and puncture-resistant. The infill stays in place and provides consistent cushioning no matter how much activity happens on top.

Drainage is excellent, thanks to a perforated backing and properly installed base layer. Water drains at over 30 inches per hour, so even after heavy rain, the playground is dry and ready for use within minutes. No more waiting days for wood chips to dry out or dealing with standing water on rubber surfaces.

Safe Materials for Peace of Mind

Parents worry about what their kids are exposed to. Our playground turf is made from non-toxic materials that are safe for children. The fibers don't contain lead, heavy metals, or harmful chemicals. The infill options are child-safe and hypoallergenic. Unlike natural grass, you won't need pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers that could harm kids.

We also offer antimicrobial infill options that inhibit bacteria growth and keep the play area hygienic. This is especially important for daycares and schools where many children use the same space. The antimicrobial properties help prevent the spread of germs and keep the playground cleaner between maintenance cycles.

Low Maintenance, High Performance

Playground turf requires minimal maintenance. Brush the surface occasionally to keep fibers upright. Remove any debris like leaves or trash. Rinse the area with a hose if it gets dusty. That's it. No raking wood chips back into place, no adding new material every season, no dealing with mud after rain. The turf maintains its cushioning and appearance for 15 to 20 years with basic care.

Ready to create a safer playground? Contact our Novato team for a free safety consultation and quote. We also install pet-friendly turf and residential artificial grass for complete backyard solutions.