Playground Services
Playground shading structures
How to find the right shading solution
Playground shade structures, covers, canopies, or awnings. No matter what you call them, shading plays a significant role in ensuring playgrounds are safe and comfortable for children and caregivers alike. Not only that, but incorporating shading structures in your commercial playground ensures you’re taking steps to protect your investment. When considering shading structures for your playground, there are a few factors involved, including:
Usability
Design
Durability
Maintenance
Safety regulations
Cost
Let’s dive into each one of these variables, so you can make an informed decision and find the perfect shading solution for you.
1. Usability
To maximize their functionality and usability, integrate shading structures with other playground amenities such as seating, picnic tables, and climbing structures. Designing shaded areas to accommodate various activities and age groups ensures they serve as inviting gathering spaces for both active play and relaxation.
2. Playground shade design
When choosing a shading solution, it’s a good idea to match the shading structures to the playground’s overall aesthetic. Some commercial playground structures have built-in, customizable canopies, but you can also incorporate separate structures into your playground design, too, e.g., our Robinia Sunshade Structures. No matter if you choose a built-in option, a separate solution, or a combination, using shading structures to compliment the playground’s ambiance enhances the overall appeal without compromising usability.
Below, you can see how built-in, stand-alone, and natural shading elements might look within your commercial playground.
Built-in shading
Built-in playground equipment shading is a great option for those looking to create and inviting space while also staying within budget.
Natural shade elements
Incorporating trees, both mature and new, into the playground design provides natural shade and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space.
Stand-alone shading
Stand-alone shading structures are a perfect solution for playground equipment without shading as well as relaxation areas.
3. Durability
While nothing lasts forever, when choosing a KOMPAN shading product, you can count on durability. Our stand-alone Robinia Sunshade Structures are made with 100% high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and their approximately 9.5 oz/yd² density ensures maximum durability in outdoor spaces. Light rain will run off, while during heavy rain, the water will pass through the sail material to prevent any damage. Keep in mind, although the HDPE material is very durable, we do recommend taking down canopies in heavy wind and during winter to ensure longevity.
When it comes to our integrated playground shading, you can be sure of durability as well. All canopies within our playground equipment comprise 95% high-density polyethylene (PE), knitted specifically for sunshade structures. Additionally, these canopies are treated with UV stabilizers, are supported by a hot-dipped, galvanized steel frame, and are tightened by stainless steel devices – all to ensure a long lifetime.
Ultimately, in terms of stand-alone versus built-in shading structures, both options have their advantages, depending on your playground's specific needs and layout. Our sales experts are more than willing to advise you on the best solution for your playground project.
4. Maintenance
Lack of maintenance on shading structures can be dangerous and cause operational disruptions to your playground. Therefore, scheduled maintenance is vital for taking care of your chosen shading solution and the playground equipment. This includes everything from repairing any rips or tears to taking down shades during harsher conditions. Clear maintenance instructions come with all KOMPAN shading products, so you're never left guessing how to best care for your investment.
5. Playground shade safety regulations
We all know the joy of a sunny day, but prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can pose risks to children's delicate skin. As such, commercial shading structures must adhere to strict safety regulations. These regulations vary from state to state, however, you can rest assured all KOMPAN shading products adhere to the strictest of standards.
6. Cost of playground shading
Determining the overall cost of shading a playground is difficult as there are many factors that can drive the cost up or down; the size of your playground, whether you require a single, stand-alone shading solution or need to shade a larger area, installation costs, and your budget can affect the price. If you would like to learn more about playground budgeting and how to allocate your resources, we recommend checking out our Playground Cost Breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you shade a playground?
How to shade a commercial playground depends on several factors, including your location, playground layout, and size of the playground area. We recommend consulting with your local KOMPAN representative as shading a playground involves taking these factors into consideration as well as combining shade structures, natural elements, and other design considerations.
What is the best shade structure for windy areas?
In windy areas, it's essential to choose shade structures designed to withstand strong winds while maintaining structural integrity. Tensioned-fabric shade sails or perforated-metal shade structures are often suitable for windy environments. No matter which option you choose, ensure shade structures are securely anchored to the ground, following our wind-load ratings and installation guidelines.
How do you balance shade and sunlight on a playground?
Carefully consider the orientation and placement of shade structures to maximize coverage during peak sunlight hours. You can position shade sails in areas where they provide the most shade throughout the day such as above play equipment, seating areas, or high-traffic zones.
Do shade sails help keep the playground clean?
Although their primary function is to provide shade, shade sails can contribute to keeping a playground clean.
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