Core Playground Manufacturing Materials

Since 1991, Creative Play’s design and operations team have meticulously selected the best materials for crafting sustainable, durable playground equipment. Decades of experience have led us to partner with trusted suppliers for components that withstand heavy use and harsh outdoor conditions. Our commitment to quality materials is key to delivering safe, engaging, and environmentally responsible play spaces.

Square Timber – Quality Timber With Reduced Risk Of Splitting

Creative Play’s square timber components, primarily sourced from Drenagh Sawmills in Northern Ireland, are precision-cut and sand-finished to withstand heavy outdoor use. Quarter sawn to eliminate heartwood, these timbers resist twisting, warping, moisture penetration, and splitting, reducing the risk of traps for little fingers. Pressure-treated with copper-based solution Osmose Naturewood, the timber is protected against decay and insect damage, ensuring long-lasting durability. Our signature groove signifies quality timber, sourced from FSC-certified, sustainable forests in the UK and Ireland. We also use large timbers from James E. Smith and round sections from AE Evans.

Play-Tec PCR – Recycled Plastic Adding Colour To The Circular Economy

Play-Tec PCR is a robust, reliable plastic ideal for playgrounds and made from 80% post-consumer recycled material which is 100% recyclable. This high-performance material complies with ISO 1183 standards, with added stabilisers enhancing durability and UV-stabilisation for a long-lasting, colourfast appearance. Available in a variety of colours and thicknesses of 12mm or 19mm, Play-Tec PCR from renowned German company Rochling, is one of the safest and most sustainable options for outdoor play equipment.

Ekogrip – The Recycled Plastic Grip That Won’t Slip

Dutch company Ekon’s Ekogrip is an 89% recycled, sustainable plastic designed for playground surfaces, featuring a sturdy recycled polyethylene base topped with a 2mm virgin thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) layer. Thanks to its studded button structure, the soft-touch surface offers excellent slip resistance, even in wet conditions. This easy-to-clean, wear-resistant material, available in black, black/blue, and black/anthracite, comes in thicknesses of 9mm, 12mm, 15mm, and 18mm.

Steel Core Ropes – Tough Flexible Textures For Greater Playground Adventures

Steel core ropes from Swedish company Polyfix, a benchmark manufacturer in the play industry, provide unmatched strength and flexibility in outdoor play equipment. These 16mm ropes, with a core of six steel strands encased in braided green nylon, are perfect for climbing structures, clatterbridges, obstacle courses, and more. Designed to resist UV exposure and colour fading, over time they manage to maintain their appearance just as reliably as their structural performance. Compliant with BS EN1176 safety standards, they are essential components in the creation of many long-lasting and engaging playground features.

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