No matter how exciting the features are or how bold the colors are, a playground that doesn’t stand up to the local weather can quickly become a maintenance headache, or worse, a safety risk. After all, the secret to a lasting playground isn't just durability—it's climate compatibility.
At AAA State of Play, we've seen it all, from the wrong material choices that easily shorten equipment’s lifespan to the best components that cut down maintenance costs. Let's explore how to make climate-smart decisions that keep your playground safe, functional, and beautiful for years to come, no matter where you call home.
Here's the thing: a playground that works beautifully in Arizona's dry heat might fail miserably in Florida's humidity. Materials expand, contract, fade, crack, and corrode differently based on temperature swings, moisture levels, UV exposure, and even salt content in the air.
When you start investing in climate-smart choices, you reap:
Think of it this way—you wouldn't wear a parka in Miami or flip-flops in Alaska. Your playground deserves the same climate-appropriate consideration!
Just as there are many states in the country, there are also various types of climates. Before you start choosing the materials, first identify the usual climate conditions in your area with the following factors:
Think Phoenix, Las Vegas, and much of Texas. While the sun is your best friend here, your rivals are its relentless UV rays and extreme heat that can turn plastic slides into accidental slip-n-slides and metal equipment into mini stovetops that could burn little hands and feet.
Places like Florida, Louisiana, and coastal Georgia face a different type of heat, this time amplified with an additional threat of humidity. This climate creates the perfect storm for rust, mold, mildew, and faster wear and tear.
From Chicago to Denver, these regions are jam-packed with higher altitudes, freezing temperatures, snow accumulation, and freeze-thaw cycles that eventually create the ultimate playground killer, one that can crack concrete and warp materials.
Seattle and Portland playgrounds might not face extreme temperatures, but constant moisture creates unique challenges for wood components and metal connections.
Whether in California or New Jersey, coastal playgrounds battle salt air that corrodes metal faster than inland equipment, regardless of temperature.
Many states—like Colorado, Washington, and Virginia—contain multiple or dynamic climate types due to changing elevations or geography. Your specific location within these states matters tremendously!
Now that you know the climate in your area, it’s time to assign the best materials that can meet its challenges. No matter your climate zone, prioritizing extra protection and opting for high-quality, durable materials will always yield the best results in the long run.
Excels in: Hot & Arid, Cold & Snowy, and Variable Climates
Metal has always been a go-to material and a reliable choice for structural elements like climbers, swings, and even hardware.
Additional Considerations:
Prospers in: Hot & Arid, Hot & Humid, Mild but Rainy, Coastal Areas, and Variable Climates
Plastic is a playground favorite for good reason—it's versatile, colorful, and great for creating imaginative play features. But in the wrong climate, it can fade, crack, or even warp.
Additional Considerations:
Thrives in: Mild but Rainy, Cold & Snowy, and Variable Climates
Wood brings a natural charm to any playground, but it needs serious backup when used outdoors, especially in unforgiving climates. Regular treatment and maintenance are highly recommended.
Additional Considerations:
Flourishes in: All Climates—when the right type is chosen.
Rubber might just win as the champion for thriving in all types of climates and temperatures. Perfect for surfacing, seats, and hand grips, this versatile material has been providing protection and flexibility for children’s ultimate fun, no matter the weather.
Additional Considerations:
Knowing the right materials is half the battle—the other half is planning and installing them properly. Climate-smart planning includes site prep, material staging, and installation practices that consider everything from erosion to sun paths.
Position equipment to minimize climate challenges—metal slides facing north rather than west in hot climates, for example, or creating windbreaks in coastal areas.
Your choice of colors should also go beyond the aesthetic value. Lighter-colored equipment reflects sunlight and stays cooler, ideal for desert or tropical climates. Dark tones can be more appropriate in cooler regions where heat retention is a plus.
Develop maintenance routines specifically addressing your climate's impacts, such as more frequent checks for rust in humid areas or UV damage in sunny regions. With constant reinforcement and maintenance, you equip these materials with sufficient protection in their engagement with nature and playtime.
Consider installing your playground in phases, allowing you to test material performance in your specific microclimate before completing the entire project.
For areas with heavy rain or snow, invest in proper drainage systems beneath your surfacing to avoid pooling, erosion, or icy patches.
Building a climate-resilient playground shouldn't require a meteorology degree! At AAA State of Play, we've taken the guesswork out of matching materials to your unique weather conditions. Our years of expertise and experience have successfully crafted climate-appropriate play spaces that thrive throughout the years.
When you put your trust in us, we offer you:
No matter what Mother Nature throws in its way, we believe every child deserves all-weather play. Explore our climate-ready collections at AAA State of Play or talk to one of our experts today.
Kelly has been a CPSI-certified playground inspector for several years. Her passion for play and attention to detail bring immense value to every playground she brings to life, and with her years of experience, every playground she visits is made better for her having been there. In her leisure time, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family.
