what to put under outdoor playhouse

3 min read 27-12-2024

Choosing the right ground covering for your children's outdoor playhouse is crucial for safety, comfort, and longevity. This guide explores various options, helping you select the best solution for your needs and budget. Whether you're building a new playhouse or upgrading an existing one, understanding the pros and cons of each option is key.

Prioritizing Safety and Comfort Under Your Playhouse

Before we dive into specific materials, let's focus on the essential criteria for choosing the right ground cover. Your primary concerns should be:

Safety: The surface should be soft enough to cushion falls, minimizing injuries. Avoid hard surfaces like concrete or bare ground.
Comfort: Children will spend significant time playing near or under the playhouse. A comfortable surface encourages longer playtime.
Drainage: Proper drainage prevents water accumulation, reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and slippery surfaces.
Durability: The ground cover should withstand the elements and regular use without significant wear and tear.
Maintenance: Opt for a material that's easy to clean and maintain.

Best Options for Under Your Outdoor Playhouse

Here's a breakdown of popular options, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages:

1. Rubber Mulch

Pros: Excellent shock absorption, soft on little knees, widely available, relatively inexpensive.
Cons: Can get hot in direct sunlight, needs occasional replenishment, can attract pests in some cases. It's also important to check for lead content in older products.

2. Pea Gravel

Pros: Good drainage, relatively inexpensive, attractive appearance, easy to maintain.
Cons: Can be uncomfortable to walk or kneel on for extended periods, smaller stones can get tracked into the playhouse. Sharp stones can pose a hazard to bare feet.

3. Wood Chips

Pros: Natural look, good shock absorption, readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Cons: Decomposes over time requiring replenishment, can attract pests, may get soggy in wet weather.

4. Playground Surface Tiles

Pros: Excellent shock absorption, durable, easy to clean, comes in different colors and designs.
Cons: Significantly more expensive than other options. More maintenance is usually required.

5. Artificial Grass

Pros: Soft, comfortable, looks great, relatively easy to clean. Always check for suitable drainage.
Cons: Can get hot in direct sunlight, can be expensive, and may require occasional repairs or replacement.

6. Sand

Pros: Soft, provides a good base for building sandcastles and other creative play. Relatively inexpensive.
Cons: Can be tracked inside the playhouse, prone to compaction. Not ideal in all climates. Drainage is key.

7. Concrete Pavers

Pros: Durable, easy to maintain, comes in various colors and styles.
Cons: Can get very hot in the sun and therefore presents a safety risk. Does not offer any shock absorption.

Choosing the Right Option for Your Playhouse

The best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and climate. Consider the following factors:

Budget: Rubber mulch and wood chips are typically the most budget-friendly options.
Climate: In hot climates, consider materials that don't retain heat excessively.
Maintenance: Some materials require more frequent maintenance than others.
Aesthetics: Choose a material that complements the style of your playhouse and your yard.

Remember to always supervise children while they are playing near the playhouse. Regularly inspect the ground cover for any hazards or signs of wear and tear. Prioritize safety above all other factors when making your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much material do I need? Measure the area under the playhouse and add extra to account for settling or future replenishment.

Q: How do I install the ground cover? Preparation is key. Level the ground and remove any weeds or debris before installation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for specific materials.

Q: How often do I need to replace the ground cover? This depends on the material. Wood chips and mulch may need replacement annually, while rubber mulch can last longer. Artificial grass is more expensive but lasts considerably longer.

By considering these factors and options, you can create a safe, comfortable, and fun play environment for your children under their outdoor playhouse.