1. What is Rubber Play Mulch?

Rubber play mulch is a recycled rubber material used as a protective surface in playgrounds. It provides cushioning for falls and is durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance compared to traditional wood mulch.

2. How to Calculate Coverage Area

The calculator uses the basic area formula:

Where:

• \( Length \) — Length of the area in feet
• \( Width \) — Width of the area in feet

Explanation: Multiply the length by the width to get the total square footage needed for your rubber mulch installation.

3. Importance of Proper Coverage

Details: Proper coverage calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of rubber mulch. The recommended depth for playgrounds is typically 6 inches for fall protection up to 10 feet.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the length and width of your play area in feet. Enter these values to calculate the square footage needed. For irregular shapes, divide into rectangles and calculate each separately.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much rubber mulch do I need per square foot?
A: For 6-inch depth, you'll need about 0.5 cubic feet per square foot (1 cubic foot covers 2 square feet at 6-inch depth).

Q2: Is rubber mulch better than wood mulch?
A: Rubber mulch lasts longer, doesn't attract insects, and provides better shock absorption, but is more expensive initially.

Q3: How do I measure irregularly shaped areas?
A: Break the area into simple rectangles, calculate each separately, then sum the results.

Q4: Does rubber mulch get hot in the sun?
A: It can get warmer than wood mulch, but newer formulations are designed to reflect more heat.

Q5: How often does rubber mulch need replacement?
A: Typically every 10+ years, compared to 1-2 years for wood mulch, making it more cost-effective long-term.