Wetpour Maintenance

November 3, 2023

Wetpour Maintenance is one of the most popular safety surfacing options for playgrounds. It is a mixture of small rubber granules bonded together with polyurethane resin and is poured over tarmac to create a soft, durable surface that is designed to absorb falls from equipment. This reduces the impact on children’s heads, preventing fractures and concussions.

The surface is also incredibly versatile, allowing for the addition of colours and graphics to make a play area as exciting or as plain as you want. However, it is not without its downsides and needs to be kept in good condition. If wetpour isn’t properly maintained, the surface can become clogged with organic debris such as leaves, mulch, waste or other material which can build up over time and cause stains, discolouration, or more significantly, fungus, algae and moss that could be a slip hazard.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Wetpour: Expert Maintenance Strategies

This is why we recommend that a simple cleaning regime is undertaken to prevent the build-up of these materials. We can carry out regular pressure washing to remove these substances, ensuring that the small voids in the surfacing remain free of dirt. The use of cleaning solutions that contain ingredients that kill organic growths is also recommended as this helps to maintain the surface in a healthy state and ensure that it remains compliant with the BS 7188 performance specification.

If your wetpour is looking a little bit worn out, a rubber crumb overlay (sometimes known as a recap) can be a great solution. This involves adding a new layer 15 mm thick over the existing surface, making it look and perform like a brand-new installation. This is a quick and inexpensive option and can be done in just a few days.