When you are planning to install a new play area - the choice of supplier is just as important as the choice of surface! Unfortunately, making a bad choice of supplier can be a very costly mistake, so here we give you a few pointers on what to look for in your surfacing supplier.
Reputation
- Get references - talk to past customers regarding the installation and how good the on-going service has been. Visit sites installed by the supplier and check the standard of the work. Choose a recent site and one that has been installed 3 or more years.
- Ensure the supplier belongs to the key industry trade associations e.g., the Association of Play Industries (API), and the Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA). Members can be found on the association websites (www.api-play.org and www.sapca.org.uk).
- Request to see copies of all Test Reports and Safety Certificates the supplier claims to hold. Check that they are still current - standards are improved on a regular basis, and this will prove your supplier keeps abreast of current legislation.
- Expect a minimum 5 year guarantee for wear and tear, materials and workmanship. This reflects the company's confidence in their level of service and the products.
Service
- Make sure that the supplier carries out a full on-site inspection. This ensures the supplier understands your requirements, and prevents any surprises later in the project!
- Obtain a full written proposal and cost estimates and make sure that you understand all aspects of the project - what your responsibilities are, what the supplier is responsible for, and where you are not sure - go back to the supplier and get a full explanation.
- Ensure that the supplier can meet your design requirements. Some wet-pour suppliers can provide mounds, hills, spheres etc with its wet-pour but others can't. Choose carefully to maximise the play potential of the area.
- If other play equipment is being installed at the same time as the surfacing - ensure that your supplier is experienced in working with third parties.
- Only use a supplier that will provide after-sales inspection, maintenance and repair services. Find out what the likely costs are, and factor these costs into your budget.
Quality
- Ensure that the surface being specified meets the specified safety regulations for your play area - click here to go to Setting Standards section for full details.
- Check on the life-expectancy of any colours included in the design - some colours fade more quickly than others.
- Use a supplier that only uses its own installation teams, not contractors. You will get a far better level of service, and a better finished play area!
Stability
- Check how long the supplier has been in business, and if possible, visit their head office. This will give you a good idea of the type of company you are dealing with.
- Carry out a financial check on the company - the play market is at best volatile, so this is a worth while exercise given the current economic climate.
On-site
- Ensure that you will have the services of one dedicated Project Manager for the duration of the work. Also ensure that there will be one on-site contract manager throughout the project.
- Check on the supplier's policy regarding the CRB checking of their site staff.
- Check that the supplier provides a proper edge finish in line with British Standard guidelines. Poor edging can lead to long-term maintenance issues.
- Check that the supplier has made provision for the securing of the installation site until the surface becomes fit to walk on and that they accept liability for that period.
Environmentally-friendly
- If being environmentally-friendly is a key driver for your choice, ensure that the product is manufactured using recycled or natural materials. In fact - using recycled rubber makes the product more durable - so you are getting the best of both worlds!
