Steps to Building a Residential Playground



Building a residential playground can be an exciting family project and an excellent long-term investment. It provides a safe space for kids to play and release energy from the comfort of their homes. A playground can also be aesthetically pleasing with the proper layout, playset, and surface material. Here are four steps to get started:


  1. Plan your area

Planning the location of your playground is a crucial step that sets the foundation for a safe and enjoyable play space. By carefully considering the backyard area, you can ensure safety and optimize the use of space for long-term enjoyment. 

  • Avoid choosing an area with obstructions, such as large rocks, tree roots, overhead wires, or concrete. 
  • Choose a flat, level area. Level the ground during installation if a flat area isn't available.
  • Determine and measure your available space in preparation for choosing your playset.
  1. Choose your playset

Families have endless options when picking a playset for a modern aesthetic and customization to match a child's favorite activity. Still, critical fall height is one of the most important things to consider.

  • Choose a material that fits the aesthetic of your backyard (tip: vinyl and cedar are popular!)
  • Choose a set that fits within your area, considering a six-foot fall zone on each side
  • Determine the critical fall height of your playset
  1. Pick your non-toxic surface

Many different surface material options exist for your residential play space—some are safe, others are not. It's important to distinguish the difference by determining what the material contains and whether or not it's toxic.

  • Research the material makeup and fall protection for your surface options

*insert fall protection definition here*

  • Choose between pea gravel, wood chips, rubber mulch, or sand
    • (Tip: Parents and families are making the switch to Rainbow Mulch because it's non-toxic with premium fall protection and available in many modern colors)
  1. Installation

The final step in creating your residential playground will ensure your kids can play safely and have fun for years to come. You've carefully selected your space, the playset, and your non-toxic surface material. Follow these final tips for a seamless installation.

  • If needed, level your area to prepare for your playset
  • Install your playset with appropriate anchoring to ensure it stays in place
    • Save the manufacturer instructions so that you can order a replacement part if needed
  • Install high-quality landscape fabric in between the soil and your surface material of choice to prevent weed growth
  • Once the fabric is secured, install a secure border. Common borders are wood, plastic, rubber, and faux brick
    • Borders are essential in containing loose fill material

A residential playground project is successful with a clear plan for scouting out the play area, choosing the playset, and selecting a non-toxic surface. Kids can enjoy safe play on their home playground, and families can appreciate a good-looking backyard.