Rubber Flooring & EPDM for Playgrounds
Protect children with proper safety surfacing. EPDM rubber flooring, rubber tiles, and impact-absorbing surfaces for playgrounds.
Why Safety Flooring Matters
Falls are the leading cause of playground injuries. Proper safety surfacing can significantly reduce injury risk.
Impact Absorption
Cushions falls and reduces injury severity from playground equipment.
Slip Resistance
Textured surface provides grip even when wet.
All-Weather Use
Drains quickly, doesn't get muddy, usable in all conditions.
Low Maintenance
Easy to clean, doesn't require watering or mowing.
Our Safety Flooring Options
EPDM Rubber Flooring
Poured-in-place rubber surface with seamless finish. Premium option with custom colors and designs. Ideal for high-end playgrounds.
Rubber Tiles
Interlocking rubber tiles in standard sizes. Easy installation and replacement. Cost-effective option for most playgrounds.
Rubber Mulch
Loose-fill recycled rubber chips. Natural look with excellent fall protection. Budget-friendly option.
Synthetic Grass
Artificial turf with shock-absorbing underlay. Combines aesthetics with safety. Great for multi-purpose areas.
EPDM Color Options
Create attractive, colorful play areas with EPDM in various colors.
Safety Surfacing: The Foundation of Safe Playgrounds
While play equipment gets the most attention, safety surfacing underneath is arguably more critical for preventing injuries. Studies show that 70-80% of playground injuries result from falls, and proper impact-absorbing surfacing can reduce injury severity by up to 90%. CBM IMPEX provides comprehensive safety flooring solutions for playgrounds across Bangalore, helping institutions meet safety standards while creating attractive, low-maintenance play surfaces.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber flooring has emerged as the premium choice for playground surfacing in India. This poured-in-place system creates a seamless, colorful surface that's visually appealing and highly functional. EPDM is installed in two layers: a base layer of SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) granules provides impact absorption, while the top EPDM layer offers UV resistance, color stability, and wear resistance. The seamless nature prevents trip hazards and makes cleaning easy.
For budget-conscious installations, interlocking rubber tiles offer an excellent alternative. These pre-manufactured tiles come in standard sizes, making installation quick and allowing easy replacement of damaged sections. Rubber tiles are available in various thicknesses to meet different fall height requirements. While not as visually seamless as poured EPDM, quality rubber tiles provide comparable impact absorption at a lower cost, making them popular for school and apartment playgrounds in Bangalore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between EPDM flooring and rubber tiles?
EPDM is a poured-in-place system that creates a seamless surface, available in unlimited colors and custom designs. It's more expensive but offers superior aesthetics and durability. Rubber tiles are pre-manufactured interlocking squares that are more affordable and allow easier replacement of damaged sections. Both provide similar impact absorption when properly installed. EPDM is preferred for premium installations; tiles work well for budget-conscious projects.
How thick should safety flooring be under playground equipment?
Thickness depends on the critical fall height of equipment. For equipment up to 1 meter fall height, 25mm thickness is adequate. For 1-1.5 meters, use 35mm. For 1.5-2 meters, use 50mm. For 2-3 meters, use 75mm or more. The flooring must be tested to ASTM F1292 or EN 1177 standards for impact attenuation. We calculate requirements based on your specific equipment and provide appropriate thickness recommendations.
How long does EPDM flooring last in Bangalore's climate?
Quality EPDM flooring lasts 10-15 years in Bangalore's climate with proper maintenance. The material is UV-stable and handles monsoon moisture well. High-traffic areas may show wear after 8-10 years but remain functional. Regular cleaning, prompt repair of any damage, and avoiding harsh chemicals extends lifespan. We offer maintenance contracts that include annual inspections and touch-up repairs to maximize flooring longevity.
What surface preparation is needed before installing safety flooring?
Safety flooring requires a stable, level, well-draining base. For poured EPDM, we typically install over concrete or compacted aggregate with a primer coat. The base must be sloped for drainage (1-2% gradient). Existing surfaces must be cleaned and repaired. For rubber tiles, the base can be concrete, compacted stone, or prepared soil with geotextile fabric. Proper preparation is critical for flooring performance and longevity.
Is rubber flooring slippery when wet?
No, quality rubber flooring maintains good traction when wet. The textured surface of both EPDM and rubber tiles provides slip resistance even in rain. The porous nature allows water to drain through or run off quickly. This makes rubber surfacing ideal for outdoor playgrounds in Bangalore where monsoon rains can make other surfaces dangerous. We can verify slip resistance ratings for specific products upon request.
Can EPDM flooring be installed with custom designs or logos?
Yes, EPDM flooring offers extensive design possibilities. You can create patterns, shapes, games like hopscotch or number grids, pathways, and even custom logos or mascots. Different colors can be used to define zones or create visual interest. The design is created during installation by pouring different colored materials. We provide design consultation to help create engaging surfaces that enhance your playground's appeal and functionality.