No two potential playground sites are identical; the characteristics of your site, from both natural and man-made elements, can have a strong influence on the final playground design. A thorough site analysis, conducted with the help of a professional, will contribute to a more economical installation, greater user satisfaction, better aesthetics and lower maintenance costs. Plus, you can build a more environmentally friendly playground!
Natural Elements
Topography: The slope or topography of your site is the most critical element you’ll need to consider. Even a site that looks level may have significant elevation changes that will affect drainage, and it's important that surface water drains away from your playground.
Soil: Soil conditions will influence the stability and drainage of your playground. It pays to understand the four basic soil types: sandy, clay, loam and peat, or “high organic matter” soils.
At your site, soil acidity, stability and drainage may put special demands on equipment. A landscape architect or a Landscape Structures playground consultant can provide guidance on soil-related issues and drainage.
Vegetation: Existing vegetation can enhance the perimeter of a play area by providing shade and a more aesthetically pleasing environment. Yet certain varieties of trees and shrubs may be less desirable than others because of falling fruit, thorns, poisonous leaves, or low resistance to construction stresses and transplanting. Consulting a landscape architect or nursery before you plant can be very helpful.
Climate and natural forces: Prevailing winds, temperature norms, seasonal sun angles, and precipitation can affect the orientation and life-span of your play equipment and should be considered when deciding on the orientation of your equipment. Also keep in mind that flood-prone sites will increase maintenance costs while limiting “playable” days.
Man-Made Elements
Utilities: It’s easy to avoid building your playground under power and telephone lines. Buried utilities may not be so obvious. Check with your city’s engineering department for water and sewer locations, then call electric, gas, telephone and cable TV providers before drawing up your plans.
Circulation and access: When selecting a site and laying out your play area, we recommend you give careful thought to parking, ease of access, pedestrian and bicycle paths, site furnishings and rest rooms. Also consider providing adequate security in the form of emergency telephones, ease of adult supervision and visibility from the street.
Once you’ve completed your site analysis, you’re ready to move on to Step Four: Select Your Equipment.
If you have questions, consult your Landscape Structures playground consultant.