Your playground faces months of rain, wind, and occasional ice. Fall maintenance protects equipment, preserves surfaces, and helps avoid repairs. Here’s what we recommend:
Essential Cleaning and Inspection
Start with a thorough cleaning to remove debris that can trap moisture and cause damage during wet winter months. Clear all leaves, dirt, and organic matter from:
- Under and around equipment
- Inside tunnels and enclosed areas
- Drainage areas and gutters
- Surface materials, especially around fall zones
Inspect all components for wear, rust, or damage. Check bolts, connections, and moving parts. Document any issues that need attention.
Surface Material Care
Engineered Wood Fiber: Rake and redistribute material to maintain proper depth. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends never using less than 9 inches of loose-fill material, and deeper depths are required for higher equipment fall heights.
Rubber Surfacing: Clean thoroughly and check for separation or wear. Rubber performs well in winter but needs good drainage to prevent ice formation.
Turf: Regularly remove all debris like leaves and trash and use a soft-bristle broom or brush to redistribute the infill and keep the synthetic turf fibers standing upright. Rinse the turf with a hose to remove dust, pollen and pet waste.
Equipment Protection
Focus on moving components that face the most winter stress:
Swings: Remove swing seats and chains when practical. Store indoors to prevent ice damage from freeze-thaw cycles. If removal isn't practical, regularly clear ice buildup.
Rockers: Check mounting bolts and springs for tightness. Freeze-thaw cycles can loosen hardware.
Slides: Clean thoroughly and inspect for cracks where water could freeze and expand. Metal slides should be checked for rust or coating damage.
Drainage and Water Management
Pacific Northwest winters, with frequent rain and occasional freezing, demand excellent drainage. Clear all drains and check that water flows away from equipment areas. Poor drainage creates ice hazards and can undermine surface materials or equipment foundations.
Ensure gutters and downspouts on shade structures direct water away from play areas. Standing water becomes a hazard and damages equipment over time. Pay special attention to areas under swings and at slide exits where surface materials commonly displace and water can pool.
Winter Play Considerations
Many Pacific Northwest communities continue playground use through winter. For year-round play:
- Post seasonal safety reminders about wet conditions
- Check equipment more frequently during heavy rain periods
- Consider temporary closures during ice events
- Plan for increased cleaning needs from mud and debris
- Be aware that loose-fill surfacing hardens when frozen, reducing impact protection. Check surface conditions before allowing play after freezing temperatures.
Preparing for Pacific Northwest Winters
Winter preparation protects your investment and keeps your community's playspace ready for years of active use. Fall maintenance prevents repairs and extends equipment life.
Contact Buell Recreation to discuss winter maintenance support or spring playground projects. We provide free site evaluations and can help prioritize maintenance needs for your specific equipment and conditions.