Impeccable surfacing is an instant game-changer in areas like playgrounds or gyms that experience a lot of footfall and physical activity. Finding the right surfacing solution that can handle the ‘pressure; and pay off, in the long run, is important in such cases.
This is where EPDM surfacing comes in.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) surfacing, also known as poured-in-place rubber surfacing, is made of two layers of synthetic rubber. The base layer is made of bulky rubber scraps, whereas the top or the “wear” layer is made of EPDM, TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanizate), and/or recycled rubber granules mixed with polyurethane binders.
The mixture poured by professionals leaves no seams and results in a uniform, joint-free surface eliminating the chances of rubber splintering. EPDM surfacing enhances the utility of outdoor and indoor spaces through reliable shock-absorbent properties, integrated with a visually pleasing design.
Still mulling over the advantages? Here’s the lowdown of why EPDM surfacing is considered to be a great surfacing option by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
1. Maximum safety
One of the top attributes that any surfacing system should possess is safety. EPDM surfacing effortlessly checks off that box. For children aged 0 to 19, falls can prove to be one of the leading causes of nonfatal injuries. With EPDM surfacing, you don’t have to stress about any major injuries while your child plays around to their heart’s content or have excruciating pain in your soles due to impactful exercises.
The synthetic rubber has an inherently high coefficient of friction which leads to anti-slip and anti-skid properties, making it quite difficult for any individual to trip or fall over the surface. Despite this, if you happen to encounter an inglorious fall, the multiple surfaces work befittingly to attenuate the impact by absorbing the shock.
2. Versatile
Another great part about an EPDM surface is that its use is not restricted to outdoor areas like playgrounds, gyms, and sports centers. There are many applications of EDPM surfaces as they fit in quite easily. The cushion-y material can be installed in kitchens, for example, where you may need to stand for longer durations while cooking, thus making the activity ergonomically comfortable.
The EPDM rubber surfacing is also known for its resistance to moisture, making it an ideal choice for your pool decks and bathrooms. The aesthetic appeal and compliance to ADA requirements make it the perfect solution for public places like hotels, schools, and offices as well.
3. Durable
Expecting the flooring surface to be durable in the long run is only justified. Well, rest assured, as EPDM surfacing wins with flying colors in that department as well.
Allow us to get into a bit of technicality here — EPDM is an elastomer composed of single bonds. The elastomer proves to be a pro at resisting the UV rays due to this property. This provides the synthetic rubber an edge over its unsaturated natural rubber step-siblings. This rubber surface can brace for all kinds of extreme weathering conditions and varying temperatures.
The high density and tensile strength of EPDM rubber make the surface tenacious resulting in minimal wear and tear and no splintering of the rubber particle. The EPDM rubber and other materials used for surfacing adhere to the ASTM standards that result in the longevity of the final product.
4. Pocket-friendly option
EPDM rubber surfacing proves to be cost-effective along with being durable in the long term. The maintenance of this surface is fairly easy and cost-efficient. The installation can be done directly on a crushed stone foundation and does not need a separate substructure.
Plus, EPDM surfaces are highly moisture-resistant eliminating the possibility of mold or mildew. The colors seldom fade over time which further eliminates the need for touch-ups or polishing to keep the surface looking splendid.
5. Personalized aesthetic
EPDM surfacing stands apart from other surfacing solutions mainly because it brings along the freedom to customize the design and colors according to your liking. The granules are available in plenty of colors and can be mixed and matched to create the desired color.
You can have vibrant designs when you are incorporating it in the playground or of a darker color based on the place you are selecting a surface for. The colors will not fade because of EPDM’s high stability under prolonged exposure to UV rays. You can get as creative as you want and implement the latest design trends with the colors, patterns, and textures.
Parting thoughts
Considering the varied advantages and applications of EPDM, there is little doubt that it can prove to be a great surfacing solution for many indoor and outdoor spaces. It is cost-effective, of excellent quality and proves to be durable for a long time making it perfect for commercial as well as residential applications.