Rubber Mulch vs Wetpour - Which to Choose?
Rubber mulch vs wetpour … What’s the difference between these two rubber playground surfacing products, and which is better?
What is Rubber Mulch?
Rubber mulch is one of the most popular products available on the playground surfacing market. Made from shredded recyclable tyres, it’s a water permeable safety surface with the look of natural bark. It is common in gardens and sustainable landscaping. This is because of its durability and low maintenance requirements, it also has superior weed growth suppression. Rubber mulch doesn’t require replacing like loose fill bark, and we guarantee our JungleMulch to last for at least 3 years.
What is Wetpour?
Wetpour provides a high quality, hard wearing, slip resistant surface that requires little to no maintenance. RubbaSmart, our brand of wetpour is available in various thicknesses dependant on any play equipment in the area. The key benefit of wetpour is that it’s very easy to create complex designs, patterns and shapes. This can help spark the imagination of any children using the play area.
Why choose Rubber Mulch?
Rubber mulch is vandal-resistant and you can easily kept neat and tidy with minimal upkeep. It is also a cost-effective alternative due to its durability. We therefore recommend it for paths, embankments, play areas, or even weed control. JungleMulch does not require a sub-base, groundworks or edging details, saving money and time during the installation process.
The only downside to rubber mulch is that it is not suitable for nurseries, or young children. This is because the product can release Carbon Black colour which can stain skin and clothing. This release of Carbon Black happens with every rubber mulch product on the market.
Why choose Wetpour?
Wetpour is the number one choice for playgrounds that require complex designs, patterns or shapes. Wetpour is very colourful for a long period of time. It also, offers a safe, non-slip surface which is ideal for playgrounds. Although clients often choose it for its aesthetics, wetpour is a high-quality safety surface. This is because we can install wetpour at varying thicknesses to provide a range of Critical Fall Heights.
The only downside to wetpour is it can often be out of budget; however, you should always consider the costs over the expected lifetime of the surface. Wet pour may also shrink over time around the edges of the play area. However, we can easily fix this problem through wetpour repairs.
Rubber Mulch vs Wetpour... which is better?
Both options are equally good in their own right! The best product for you entirely depends on what you’re trying to achieve with the playground. Are you wanting apattern design and long-lasting bright colours? Wetpour is the best option. Are you looking for a more natural aesthetic or a product that can suppress weeds? Choose rubber mulch. Needing slip resistant surface that’s suitable for nurseries and younger children? Wetpour is better. And if you’re installing a pathway or trail and don’t want to carry out ground works, rubber mulch is better.
Rubber Mulch vs Wetpour, both are great!
Whichever you choose, we hope this post helped you understand the difference between them and the key benefits of each.
Are you looking to get a quote or have any questions? Feel free to call us on 01564 742811 or get in touch via our handy contact form.
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