A School’s Guide to Maintaining Markings on the Playground

A School’s Guide to Maintaining Markings on the Playground

At UniPlay, we understand that the vibrancy and safety of your playground markings are essential for creating an engaging and dynamic learning environment. Markings are a durable and long-lasting solution for playgrounds, but like any investment, they require proper maintenance to ensure their longevity and performance. To help you understand more about maintaining the markings on your playground, we have rounded up some tips below…

Routine Inspection

The first step in maintaining your markings is regular inspections. We recommend that school maintenance staff conduct a visual inspection at least once a month. Look for signs of wear such as fading, cracking, or lifting edges, which can occur over time due to weather exposure and regular use. Early detection of these issues means they can be addressed promptly, preventing further deterioration.

Cleaning

Keeping the markings clean is essential for maintaining their appearance and slip resistance. Dirt, debris, and sand can not only obscure the vibrant colours but also abrade the surface. A gentle sweep with a soft-bristled brush should be part of the daily routine. For more thorough cleaning, a pressure washer set to a low pressure can be used periodically to remove ingrained dirt without damaging the markings.

Sealant Application

To further protect the markings, consider applying a sealant. This can provide an additional layer of protection against UV rays and moisture, two factors that can accelerate the aging process of the markings. The sealant should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and it’s crucial to ensure that the surface is clean and dry before application.

Repair and Replacement

If any part of the marking begins to peel or crack, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse. Small cracks can often be sealed, but if the damage is extensive, it may require cutting out the affected area and replacing it with a new, more modern thermoplastic material.

Avoidance of Harsh Chemicals

When cleaning, it’s important to avoid the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, which can damage the markings. Stick to mild products if necessary, and always rinse thoroughly with water after any chemical use.

Managing the Environment

While markings are designed to withstand the elements, certain environmental conditions can be mitigated to extend their life. For instance, if possible, redirect standing water that may pool on the surface, as prolonged exposure can undermine the adhesive bond of the markings to the pavement.

Education

Educating the school community about the importance of maintaining the playground markings can also play a significant role. Encourage students to report any damage they notice and to avoid using sharp objects or bikes on the markings, which can cause premature wear.

Professional Support or New Marking Installation?

Lastly, while onsite staff can handle most maintenance tasks, it’s beneficial to have a professional inspection annually. At UniPlay, we offer services to assess the condition of your playground markings comprehensively and perform any necessary restorations. Often, if markings are old and worn, our team recommend installing new thermoplastic markings for your school. Our vibrant and creative designs offer solutions for tired and uninspiring playground games and marking ideas. We often see projects where traditional paint has been used, resulting in significant wear and tear however our thermoplastic markings are extremely durable and long-lasting.

At UniPlay we only utilise high quality and durable thermoplastic for our projects, using modern design and manufacturing technology to pre-cut the markings before application, resulting in precise and vibrant markings which last for years to come.

To speak to our team about marking maintenance or removal, simply call 0333 321 6695 or email info@uni-play.co.uk and we will be in touch as soon as possible.