UNITARY SYNTHETIC MATERIALS rubber or rubber over foam mats or tiles, poured in place urethane and rubber compositions Fall Absorbing Characteristics Manufacturer should be contacted for information on Critical Height of materials when tested according to ASTM F1292. Installation/Maintenance Some unitary materials can be laid directly on hard surfaces such as asphalt or concrete. Others may require expert under-surface preparation and installation by the manufacturer or a local contractor. Materials generally require no additional means of containment. Once installed, the materials require minimal maintenance. Advantages Low maintenance. Easy to clean. Consistent shock absorbency. Material not displaced by children during play activities. Generally low life cycle costs. Good footing (depends on surface texture). Harbor few foreign objects. Generally no retaining edges needed. Is accessible to the handicapped. Disadvantages Initial cost relatively high. Undersurfacing may be critical for thinner materials. Often must be used on almost level uniform surfaces. May be flammable. Subject to vandalism (e.g., ignited, defaced, cut). Full rubber tiles may curl up and cause tripping. Some designs susceptible to frost damage. |
