Guide for Maintaining Commercial Playground Equipment with Timber: A Crucial Reference
In the realm of playground construction, timber remains a popular choice due to its natural resilience and aesthetic appeal. To ensure the safety and longevity of timber playground equipment, it is crucial to follow a well-planned maintenance routine. Here are the key practices that should be adhered to for maximum life and safety.
1. **Regular Inspections and Routine Maintenance** Regular inspections using detailed checklists, ideally supplied by the playground equipment manufacturer, are essential to identify issues such as splintering wood, loose or exposed bolts, rusting metal fixings, or damaged surfaces. Following standards such as BS EN 1176 part 7 clause 8.2.6, which emphasizes preventative routine maintenance, helps preserve safety and performance.
2. **Timber Care and Protection** Using high-quality machine-finished timber, such as laminated wood treated to reduce splitting and fiber separation, prolongs durability. These timbers often come with guarantees of up to 20 years. Maintaining steel fixings such as galvanized steel brackets that elevate timber poles off the ground reduces moisture damage and strimmer damage, significantly extending the timber’s lifespan.
3. **Cleaning and Graffiti Removal** Timber surfaces should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and graffiti. Smooth, rounded timber poles can be lightly sanded to remove graffiti without damaging the wood. Proper cleaning also involves safety inspections beforehand to ensure no hazards are present during the process.
4. **Spare Parts and Repairs** Prompt replacement of worn or broken components, such as those provided by Playdale, ensures the integrity and safety of the equipment. Repairs should be done by qualified personnel or under expert guidance.
5. **Preventative Measures** A maintenance schedule that includes preventative treatments and cleaning protects timber from environmental factors such as UV rays, moisture, vandalism, and chemicals. Regular tightening of bolts and inspection of metal parts prevents rust or breakage.
By following these steps, timber playground equipment remains safe and functional for children over many years, balancing durability, aesthetics, and safety effectively. For more specific guidance, many manufacturers provide detailed inspection and maintenance guides tailored to their equipment.
Notes: - Moduplay, a specialist in designing playgrounds using selected Australian timbers, educates clients about natural timber features such as checking, surface splits, and natural movements. - Quantum Timber Finishes 'Timbre Plus - Decking' offers long-lasting protection for timber. - Checking is a harmless process as the timber adjusts to its environment. - Intergrain Universal Timber Oil is a user-friendly, durable coating choice for most applications. - Timber playground equipment from Moduplay can last for over 35 years with minimal maintenance. - Drainage checks around footings are essential to prevent waterlogging. - Re-coating timber equipment with a recommended timber oil is necessary every 6-12 months, depending on usage and environment. - Surface splits should be addressed promptly with sanding and recoating to prevent further wear. - Cleaning timber surfaces can be done using mild cleaning agents or a simple hosedown. - Footing rot can be prevented by ensuring proper installation and water runoff.
- To enhance the longevity of a commercial playground, implementing a regular inspection and maintenance schedule is essential, checking for potential issues like splintering wood, loose bolts, rusting metal fixings, and damaged surfaces.
- The choice of high-quality, machine-finished timber, such as laminated wood treated for reduction of splitting and fiber separation, can significantly prolong the equipment's durability, often coming with guarantees of up to 20 years.
- Regular cleaning and graffiti removal are important for the maintenance of timber playground equipment, ensuring the surfaces remain clean and safe for children.
- Swift replacement of worn or broken components, such as those available from Playdale, is key in preserving the integrity and safety of the equipment.
- Embracing a maintenance schedule that includes preventative treatments and cleaning for timber play equipment can protect it from environmental factors, ensuring its safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal for many years.
