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Synthetic Turf for Playgrounds
When kids play hard, the surface underneath matters. Our IPEMA certified playground turf systems are engineered for safety first with fall-rated padding, ADA-compliant surfaces, and antimicrobial fibers that hold up to daily use from toddlers to teenagers. Whether it's a backyard playset or a school playground, we build it to perform for years.
Why Use Artificial Turf for Northwest Playgrounds?
Synthetic turf is non-toxic, free of allergens, and antimicrobial so that you can rest assured that your children and their friends are safe during playtime. If desired we can install 1" or 2’’ playground pads underneath our synthetic turf, so falls and slips are gently cushioned. Our synthetic turf is also fully ADA/ABA compliant, so you don’t have to worry about crutches or wheelchairs sinking into the ground and getting stuck.
Colorful and Customizable Options
There’s also the option to add some fun, colorful features to your lawn to encourage sensory development. We can add custom elements to your lawn if, for instance, you want a bright yellow bee or a synthetic Hopscotch game. We can help make your yard the best place for playdates and family reunions.
IPEMA Certified
STI has secured IPEMA certifications for five SoftLawn® Playground systems. Our systems already exceeded national safety standards. But we believe it is important to seek and obtain third party verification.
Benefits of Synthetic Turf for Playgrounds
- IPEMA-certified safety systems — independently tested to ASTM standards, not just self-reported
- Fall zone ratings up to 12 feet — 1" pad covers 6 ft, 2" pad covers 9 ft, thicker options available for taller equipment
- ADA & ABA accessible surface — wheelchairs and crutches won't sink or get stuck
- Perforated pad + clean rock drainage — stays dry and playable through Pacific Northwest rain season
- No mud, no mess — eliminates the swamp under playsets from October through May
- Antimicrobial surface — resists bacteria and fungi, important for daycares, schools, and young kids
- Allergen-free play area — no grass pollen, no mold, no pesticides or fertilizers ever needed
- Handles rough play year after year — consistent performance under heavy foot traffic and daily use
- Customizable colors and inlays — add hopscotch grids, game lines, or custom shapes to encourage active play
- Virtually zero maintenance — occasional rinse, periodic brush, nothing else
What fall height protection do your playground pads provide?
We install two standard pad thicknesses depending on your equipment. Our 1" pad is rated for fall heights up to 6 feet, and our 2" pad covers fall heights up to 9 feet, which is appropriate for most residential playsets and commercial climbing structures. For taller or more specialized equipment, we also have access to thicker pad options.
During your site walk we will measure your equipment's critical fall height and recommend the right system. Schedule your free site walk here.
Is your playground turf IPEMA certified?
Yes. We install IPEMA-certified playground systems including SoftLawn EZ Play and other SYNLawn products we carry. IPEMA certification means the system has been independently tested and verified to meet ASTM safety standards for impact attenuation. It is not self-reported. For schools, daycares, and HOAs this certification is often required by insurance or local code, and we can provide documentation upon request.
Is synthetic turf safe for toddlers and young children?
Yes. The playground turf systems we install are non-toxic, free of heavy metals, and independently tested for safety. They are also antimicrobial, which matters for younger kids who are closer to the surface. Unlike wood chips or pea gravel, synthetic turf does not harbor insects, fungi, or allergens, and it will not get tracked into the house after play. For families with kids who have grass allergies, it eliminates that trigger entirely.
How does drainage work under playground turf in the Pacific Northwest?
Drainage is built into every layer of the system. We excavate the area and install a clean rock base that handles groundwater and our heavy Puget Sound rainfall. The playground pad itself is perforated to allow water to pass through, and the turf surface drains on top of it. The result is a surface that stays dry and playable year round. No standing water, no mud, no swamp under the playset from October through May.
Do you install playground turf around existing play equipment?
Yes, and it is one of the more technical aspects of a playground install. Working around existing equipment requires precise cutting, extra seam work, and nailer boards to secure the pad and turf cleanly around posts, legs, and footings. It takes longer than an open-area install, but the result is a professional, tight fit. We do not recommend moving or removing equipment just to save install time. We work around what is there.
Do you work with schools, daycares, and HOAs or just homeowners?
Both. We serve residential backyard playset areas as well as commercial installations for schools, daycares, HOAs, and other organizations across Pierce, King, and Kitsap Counties. Commercial projects often involve additional documentation requirements such as ADA compliance records, IPEMA certification documentation, or proof of fall zone ratings. We are set up to provide all of it. Contact us with your project scope and we will give you a realistic timeline and budget range.
How do you clean and maintain playground turf?
Day-to-day maintenance is minimal. Occasional rinsing with a garden hose handles most dirt and debris. For schools and daycares where sanitizing is required, the turf surface can be cleaned with a diluted non-toxic disinfectant and rinsed off. There is no mowing, no fertilizing, and no reapplying bark or wood chips after it gets kicked out of the fall zone.
Periodic brushing to keep the fibers upright is the main ongoing task. We walk every customer through the process at the end of the installation.
How long does a playground turf installation take?
Playground installs take longer than a standard lawn project due to the additional layers involved: excavation, clean rock base, perforated pad, and turf, plus the precision work of cutting and seaming around existing equipment. A typical residential playset area runs one to two days on site. Commercial or larger installations may take longer depending on scope and equipment complexity. We will give you a specific timeline during your free site walk. Schedule yours here.
If I could give more than five stars I would. Jarod and his team did a fantastic job in our backyard. They were very professional and careful, ensuring everything looked perfect. They also cleaned up everything after they were done, which was super thoughtful. By far the best vendor I've worked with, and I'd highly recommend them to anyone looking to improve their space!
Luke K
Ready to Get Started?
For safe and reliable playground turf installation in Washington State, rely on our experienced turf specialists. We offer durable, low-maintenance synthetic grass designed for optimal safety and play. Schedule a free consultation for expert advice and detailed installation cost estimates or give us a call for a ballpark figure.
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