Before You Begin

Know Your Needs

In order to make the right decisions, you need a clear idea of what you are trying to accomplish. Think about play value, durability, safety, function, aesthetics, users, location and budget. Ask yourself:

• What age group/s will use the playground?
• How many children are you trying to accommodate?
• Are there specific needs/wants regarding accessibility?
• Should the playground be easy to supervise?
• Is vandalism or nuisance behaviour a concern?
• What types of play components would you like to incorporate?
• How important are quality, durability and warranty?
• What is your target date for purchase and installation?

Choose Your Supplier

Choosing a supplier is the most important decision in your playground planning. Before making that choice, review your needs and consider the following:

• How long has the manufacturer been in business?
• Where is the equipment manufactured?
• What is the company’s warranty?
• Does the equipment meet or exceed industry safety standards?
• How durable and vandal-resistant is the equipment?
• How easily can you access service and supplies when required?

Select Your Site

Research and choose your location prior to choosing a playground design. It's a good idea to confer with the landowner, maintenance department or any other stakeholders to select the best site. Be sure to determine the location of any water, sewer, electric, gas, cable TV, or telephone lines. The ideal site should be:

• Highly visible and well-lit for maximum safety
• Easy to access for all users as well as maintenance equipment
• Relatively flat with good drainage

Determine Your Budget & Find the Funds

Establishing a budget is essential to the planning process. Be sure to budget for the equipment itself as well as delivery, site preparation, safety surfacing, borders and installation. You may also need to set aside an annual maintenance budget.

Raising the necessary funds can be challenging. In many provinces and municipalities, grants may be available to help you with your project. Ask your Blue Imp representative about government grants in your area or fundraising ideas.

Choose A Design

Once you have determined your needs, location, budget and supplier, you are ready to choose a playground design. Let your playground representative show you the options and help you make the best choice.

Decide on Surfacing & Installation

All play equipment must be installed over resilient surfacing covering the complete protective surfacing zone. Choices include loose fill (pea gravel, sand, wood chips or manufactured wood fibre) or uniform surfaces (poured-in-place rubber or rubber tiles). Ask your representative what will work best for your needs and location.

Installation options include a supervised community build, commercial installation or combined option. Contact your local representative for more details.