Surface water flooding happens when water doesn’t drain away from the surfaces it has either fallen or flowed onto. While this can be a problem in a variety of ways, it can be especially troublesome for outdoor play areas as it can cause damage and prevent them being played in.
Causes of Surface Flooding
The water in surface flooding will usually come from heavy rainfall, though snowfall can also cause such flooding once it starts to melt. The reason it happens is because the water on the surface cannot run off or drain away. This could be because the surface is not slanted enough to enable the water to run off, and the material of the surface isn’t permeable to enable drainage.
Surface flooding can also occur when a permeable surface such as topsoil gets saturated to the point where it simply cannot soak up any more water.
Surface Flooding Problems
Surface flooding can make outdoor play areas unsuitable for use. Not only would children get wet and mucky playing in large puddles, but the surface water can also be a significant health hazard. Surface water that sits for a long time can also develop mossy growth, which remains slippery even after the water has finally evaporated.
Another problem is the structural damage that sitting surface water can cause over time to the likes of paved surfaces and fences.
Tips to Reduce Surface Water Flooding
The first item on the agenda should always to be ensure all drains are clear. If there are any gutters on houses or sheds near the outdoor play area, these should also be cleared to allow rain water to flow correctly without bringing lots of debris with it to clutter up the drains.
This next tip is useful for when you are planning to build an outdoor play area. Before laying the final surface material such as a paving slab, place a layer of permeable material underneath, such as an aggregate sub-base. Paving on top of such as layer will be a great help with drainage.
Silver Play Sand for Outdoor Play Area Drainage
Another good option is to use silver play sand for the outdoor play area. It is a clean and safe sand that children can play in, and is often used for the creation of artificial beaches. It looks good, creates a soft landing for bumps and tumbles children inevitably have, and is excellent for draining away surface water.
Bark Chippings for Outdoor Play Areas
Alternatively, you can also add a thick layer of bark chippings or pine play grade bark which maintains a nice natural look while also providing great drainage. It is suitable for children to play on and will help prevent surface water flooding.
If you require silver play sand bulk bags, pine play grade bark or bark chippings, then contact Springbridge via our website or call today on 0845 370 1921 for more information.