Creating safe, long-lasting, and low-maintenance surfaces for playgrounds and recreational spaces is a priority for schools, local councils, and commercial venues. Traditional surfacing options, such as bark mulch, grass, or gravel, often require frequent maintenance, and replacement, or fail to meet modern safety standards.
Mulchbond or Rubber Mulch has emerged as a versatile and durable alternative, offering impact absorption, weed suppression, and an eco-friendly solution for play areas, pathways, and landscaping projects. But what exactly is rubber mulch, and why is it increasingly used in outdoor spaces?
What is Rubber Mulch?
Rubber mulch is a safety surfacing material made from recycled rubber, typically sourced from end-of-life tyres. These tyres undergo a specialised shredding and cleaning process to remove any metal and other non-rubber components, leaving behind soft, durable rubber granules.
Unlike traditional wood mulch, rubber mulch is:
- Long-lasting – Does not decompose like organic mulch.
- Shock-absorbent – Provides a cushioned surface for playgrounds.
- Weather-resistant – Withstands rain, frost, and extreme temperatures.
- Low maintenance – Does not blow away or compact over time.
This makes rubber mulch a cost-effective and sustainable choice for areas that experience high foot traffic, play activities, or environmental wear and tear.
Mulchbond Rubber can be installed over stone-based works and natural turf with the following Critical Fall Heights
Installation over Stone-Based works
| Critical Fall Height (m) | Rubber Mulch Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|
| 1.2 m | 45 mm |
| 1.7 m | 60 mm |
| 2.1 m | 80 mm |
| 2.6 m | 100 mm |
| 3 m | 140 mm |
Installation over Natural Turf
| Critical Fall Height (m) | Rubber Mulch Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|
| 1.5 m | 45 mm |
| 2.3 m | 60 mm |
| 2.8 m | 80 mm |
| 3.4 m | 100 mm |
Key Benefits of Rubber Mulch Surfacing
1. Superior Safety and Impact Absorption
One of the biggest reasons rubber mulch is used in playgrounds and recreational areas is its shock-absorbing properties.
• When installed at the right depth, rubber mulch meets BS EN 1177 safety standards, reducing the risk of injuries from falls.
• Unlike hard surfaces like concrete or tarmac, rubber mulch cushions falls, making it ideal for playgrounds with climbing frames, swings, or slides.
• Compared to wood mulch or gravel, rubber mulch does not compact over time, maintaining its impact absorption properties for years.
2. Longevity and Durability
Rubber mulch is highly durable, lasting up to ten times longer than traditional wood mulch.
• Resistant to weather conditions – Rubber does not rot, mould, or absorb water, making it ideal for outdoor environments.
• Does not break down over time – Unlike bark mulch, which decomposes and needs frequent top-ups, rubber mulch retains its form and function for years.
• UV-resistant – The colour of rubber mulch does not fade as quickly as wood mulch, keeping play areas visually appealing.
3. Minimal Maintenance Requirements
Playgrounds and recreational spaces need to be cost-effective and easy to maintain. Rubber mulch is:
- Weed-resistant – Prevents weeds from growing, reducing the need for regular maintenance.
- Drains water efficiently – Prevents water pooling, making it usable year-round.
- Insect and pest-free – Unlike wood mulch, which attracts termites and other pests, rubber mulch does not provide a food source for insects.
- Does not scatter or get blown away – It remains in place, reducing replenishment costs.
4. Environmentally Friendly Choice
Using rubber mulch contributes to sustainability efforts by recycling tyres that would otherwise end up in landfills.
• It re-purposes waste material into a functional and durable product.
• Reduces the need for constant tree felling, unlike wood mulch.
• Helps meet sustainability goals for schools, councils, and businesses investing in eco-friendly outdoor spaces.
5. Attractive and Customisable Designs
Rubber mulch is available in a variety of colours, allowing for playful, natural, or branded designs in outdoor spaces.
• Earthy tones (brown, green) blend well with natural landscapes.
• Bright colours (blue, red, yellow) create visually engaging playgrounds.
• Custom colour blends can be used to match school or park themes.
Unlike traditional mulch, which fades over time, rubber mulch retains its vibrant colour for longer, keeping outdoor areas looking fresh and inviting.
Where is Rubber Mulch Used?
Due to its versatility and safety, rubber mulch is widely used in a range of outdoor spaces:
1. Playgrounds & Schools
• Provides a safe fall surface under swings, climbing structures, and slides.
• Complies with critical fall height (CFH) safety standards, making it an ideal alternative to wood chips or grass.
• Low-maintenance and long-lasting, reducing costs for schools and councils.
2. Public Parks & Green Spaces
• Offers a natural-looking alternative that blends into park environments.
• Reduces mud, puddles, and trip hazards along pathways.
• Helps keep parks clean and safe for visitors.
3. Sports & Recreational Facilities
• Used around outdoor gym equipment, jogging tracks, and fitness zones.
• Provides cushioning for high-impact areas, reducing stress on joints.
4. Walking & Cycle Paths
• Prevents surface erosion in high-footfall areas.
• Ensures a grippy, slip-resistant surface, even in wet conditions.
5. Landscaping & Garden Areas
• Reduces weed growth in plant beds and around trees.
• Provides insulation for plant roots, protecting them from extreme temperatures.
• Long-lasting and cost-effective, reducing the need for frequent re-mulching.
Installation & Maintenance of Rubber Mulch
Installation Process
One of the benefits of Mulchbond is that it can be directly installed onto grass, this offers a more cost-effective solution than other safety surfacing.
Installing rubber mulch is straightforward but should be done professionally for best results:
- Site preparation – The ground is cleared and levelled.
- Weed membrane installation – A geotextile fabric is often placed underneath to prevent weeds.
- Rubber mulch application – Spread evenly at the required depth (typically 50-100mm for play areas).
- Compaction & levelling – The surface is settled to ensure even coverage and safety compliance.
Ongoing Maintenance
Unlike traditional mulch, rubber mulch requires minimal upkeep:
• Occasional brushing or raking to remove debris.
• Periodic power washing to refresh the surface.
• Checking for displaced areas and topping up where necessary.
Its weather resistance and durability mean it can last for over a decade with minimal intervention.
Rubber mulch is a practical, safe, and sustainable surfacing solution for playgrounds, parks, sports areas, and landscaping projects. Its impact-absorbing properties, durability, and low-maintenance benefits make it an excellent investment for schools, councils, and businesses looking for a long-lasting, eco-friendly solution.
Thinking about rubber mulch for your next project? Contact our experienced team today for expert advice, a free consultation, and a no-obligation quote.