Rubber tire mulch is a recycled product with a large market. The mulch is used in landscaping and valued for not changing color or rotting, unlike wood chip mulch. It is also marketed for use in playgrounds as a “green” alternative to wood chips or pea gravel.
How did rubber tire mulch become so common in children’s playgrounds? Is it sustainable to use recycled tires in a product meant for children?Let’s look at a comprehensive history of the product, diving into it’s playground surfacing roots.
History of Rubber Tire Mulch
People have been using rubber for hundreds of years. When Christopher Columbus arrived in the new world, he found natives using balls made of natural rubber. Rubber is produced naturally in the sap of a rubber tree.
It is extracted with taps in the same process as maple syrup. It was not long before rubber and rubber trees were exported to Europe, where people found many uses for the durable tree extract.
The name “rubber” comes from Joseph Priestly, a theologian, author, and chemist. In the late 1700’s Priestly discovered that this material was useful for rubbing away pencil marks, thus inventing erasers and giving the material its modern name.
Another early use for rubber was the Mackintosh. Charles Macintosh invented this waterproof raincoat using layers of fabric and rubber. The first Mackintosh raincoat was sold in 1824.
Charles Goodyear and The Invention of Sulfur Vulcanization
In 1832, American Charles Goodyear discovered that adding sulfur to rubber changed the material’s properties. This process is called sulfur vulcanization. While natural rubber can be melted and remolded, vulcanized rubber holds a permanent shape. Goodyear patented this process in 1844.
His patent application emphasized the product’s indestructible qualities, stating, “No degree of heat, without blaze, can melt it.” Goodyear also patented two processes for recycling vulcanized rubber. These processes involved grinding the rubber and then mixing it with virgin rubber, or heating and pressing the ground rubber and scraps into a new form.
The Tire Emerges Thanks to John Boyd Dunlop
The first rubber tire was created by Scottish inventor John Boyd Dunlop in 1887. It was used on a bicycle for Dunlop’s son. The tire gained attention after bicycles using Dunlop’s tires began winning bicycle races.
Soon, a company was formed to manufacture the tires for wide-scale production. The mass production of personal automobiles happened at almost the same time, with the Ford Model T arriving in 1908.
The Scrap Tire Problem
As more and more people began driving cars, more and more used tires were, quite literally, piling up. Just as Goodyear had noted in his patent application, tire disposal is difficult because tires do not decompose. They do not melt. They cannot be easily reshaped. Since tires need to be replaced after a certain number of miles, scrap tires became a growing problem.
Recycling Tires – An Iterative Process
In the 1960s, a German named Berleburger Schaumstoffewerke improved on the process for recycling rubber. Like the earliest process described by Goodyear, this recycling process involved grinding the rubber into smaller pieces and then pressing it into new forms.
Schaumstoffewerke used the recycled rubber to manufacture materials used in athletic complexes, such as runnings tracks and floors in gymnasiums. He also manufactured floor tiles to be used in children’s playgrounds.
Schaumstoffewerke’s work was novel but not widespread. The scrap tire problem continued and worsened.
A Growing Problem In The United States
In the US, waste tires were stockpiled in landfills and private dumps. The tires collected water and created a breeding ground for disease-causing mosquitoes. They also presented a fire hazard.
In 1983, a fire started at a tire landfill in Winchester, Virginia. The fire was extremely dangerous, creating toxic black smoke and hot oil waste. Due to the chemical components of the tires, the fire could not be extinguished with water. Authorities had no choice but to let the fire burn itself out, which took months. In 1984, another tire landfill caught fire, this time in Everette, Washington. The results were the same.
New EPA Regulations
In the aftermath of these fires, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took steps to address the scrap tire problem. In 1985, the EPA published a report titled The Scrap Tire Problem: A Preliminary Economic Analysis.
The report found that approximately 240 million scrap tires were traded in that year. Of those 240 million scrap tires, almost 70 percent – 170 million tires – went directly to stockpiles and landfills. The EPA recognized the urgent need for a better solution. One of their biggest recommendations for addressing this problem was to find more ways to recycle the scrap tires.
A New Report
The EPA released another report about scrap tires in 1991. This report, Markets for Scrap Tires, noted that by 1991 Americans were now producing 242 million scrap tires per year. At the time, less than 7 percent were being recycled.
A NJ Company Called Tire Playground, Inc.
Among the markets for scrap tires listed, the report highlighted a company in New Jersey called Tire Playground, Inc.
Tire Playground, Inc. repurposed old tires to create new items such as swings and obstacles for climbing. The report noted that demand for tire playgrounds was small and, even if popular, would not use up enough scrap tires to adequately address the problem.
Another use for scrap tires mentioned in the 1991 report was “Playground Gravel Substitute.” In 1991, this product was one of five recycled tire products which interested the EPA. However, around 70 percent of scrap tires were still landing in stockpiles and landfills.
Improving The Recycling Process
Improvements to the rubber recycling process were discovered in 1999 at The Chelsea Center for Recycling and Economic Development, a part of the University of Massachusetts Center for Environmentally Appropriate Materials.
In a report describing this work, the lab explained that its goal was “to develop a technique that enables one to make high value-added recycled rubber products from scrap rubber powder.”
This impressive increase in recycling can be linked to several efforts. States developed grant programs funding the use of recycled tire rubber.
A grant program in Kentucky, for example, gave grants to municipalities, school districts and others to fund the use of tire rubber mulch as a playground gravel substitute.
In ten years, Kentucky’s grant program had funded the use of recycled tire mulch in almost 300 playgrounds.
The Money Flows – Tire Recyclers Are Born
Recycled rubber manufacturers expanded to meet the demand and advertised to grow the market. One of the largest providers, Liberty Tire Recycling, promotes recycled tire mulch as safer than alternative playground surfaces.
According to the website for their rubber playground mulch, the product “cushions a child’s fall and provides up to 2.5 times more fall height protection than grass, dirt, sand, pea gravel, wood mulch, engineered wood fiber (EWF), rubber tiles or poured in place surfaces.”
Presidential Appeal
When Barack Obama began his first term in 2009, the Obamas installed a playground for their daughters at The White House. The first official White House playground featured recycled scrap tire rubber mulch manufactured in New Jersey.
The mulch was chosen for its safety properties. It met all guidelines published by The International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Questions About Safety
Early concerns about the safety of rubber tire mulch focused on the composition of the product. Tires are not constructed entirely of vulcanized rubber. They also contain steel wires and bands to support tire’s shape. While modern recycled tire mulch now claims to be 99% free of metal, there is still a possibility for children to come in contact with steel scraps while playing in rubber mulch.
There were also questions about the volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) contained in tire rubber. The health risks of VOCs include effects on the respiratory system, allergies, and immune systems of children. A report on playground safety conducted in California and published in 2003 found that recycled tire rubber includes at least seven carcinogens, chemicals capable of causing cancer.
Concerns rose after a small fire was discovered in the rubber mulch at Yulupa Elementary School in Sonoma County in August of 2003. Suspected to be intentionally started by vandals, the fire was fueled by rubber mulch made from chips of recycled tires. The fire burned for approximately 15 minutes and affected about half of the mulch surface of the playground.
The EPA hired a contractor to inspect the site of the playground fire. The contractor was to determine the following:
Was the soil below the burned chip layer contaminated?
Should soil removed from the playground be classified as hazardous waste?
Did clean-up workers breathe air contaminated with chemicals found in rubber?
The studies found that scrap tire rubber mulch did leach chemicals into the surrounding soil and groundwater. However, the levels of VOCs and other tire-derived chemicals were determined to be within EPA recommended levels. The study’s conclusion stated, “it seems doubtful that recycled tire rubber in outdoor applications such as playground surfaces releases high enough levels of chemicals to cause toxicity to animals and plants living in the vicinity.”
Despite the EPA’s assurances, consumers are skeptical. “It seems doubtful” does not convey the same confidence as a statement declaring “no risk whatsoever.” Is it really alright for children to play in mulch derived from waste that many states classify as toxic waste?
In October of 2014, NBC News published a story questioning the safety of artificial turf. After several Washington State soccer players developed similar cancers, an investigation was launched into the safety of artificial soccer fields. The turf investigated used crumbs of recycled scrap tires as fill to add shock-absorption to the fields.
NBC examined available studies from the EPA and others. They interviewed scientists and industry professionals. The story concluded the researchers were “ unable to find any agreement over whether crumb turf had ill effects on young athletes, or even whether the product had been sufficiently tested.”
A follow up story in December of 2014 focused specifically on the use of rubber tire scraps on playgrounds. The public was concerned that children were playing in the same material that had not been conclusively found safe for use in artificial turf. Parents complained that the mulch left black marks on their children’s clothing and skin.
As a concerned mother explained, “We know that there are chemicals in tires, and we know that they are most likely not removed just by shredding and putting them on a playground.” Another person interviewed for the story was Dr. Philip Landrigan of Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, a doctor who focused on the effects of chemical exposure on children. Dr. Landigan noted that “Little children should not be put in a situation where they’re forced to be in intimate contact with carcinogenic chemicals.”
The NBC stories were seen by many people and started conversations among concerned parents. Schools began to reconsider the great deals they were getting on scrap tire mulch through state-funded grants. The EPA, working to avoid landfills and toxic fires, had an incentive to create a market for the recycled tires. Questions were raised about the reliability of the studies that had been conducted to date.
Replacing Rubber Mulch
In 2016, the Board of Education in North Shore Long Island, NY, voted unanimously to remove and replace the rubber mulch in their playgrounds. The board agreed to budget $500,000 for the removal of recycled tire rubber playground mulch at three elementary school playgrounds. The mulch was replaced by mulch made of wood chips.
In Connecticut in 2017, efforts to remove tire mulch from playgrounds were conducted by Environment and Human Health, Inc (EHHI). EHHI reached out to schools with information regarding the questions around tire mulch safety and recommended replacing recycled tire mulch with wood chip mulch on playgrounds. On their website, EHHI notes the difficulties they have encountered in changing legislation or receiving the help of any state agency in changing policies covering the use of tire mulch.
Decisions were made to replace the shredded tire mulch at East Durham Park in 2018 after parent voiced concerns of possible health risks. Durham’s mayor objected to the decision, stating he prefered to wait for the results of a new EPA study regarding the safety of recycled tire mulch used in playgrounds.
Present Developments
In recent years playground safety surface and garden landscape material space has come under more scrutiny as to what the future holds for rubber tire mulch.
In 2016, a inter-agency study had been announced by the EPA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The effort is called the Federal Research Action Plan on Recycled Tire Crumb Used on Playing Fields and Playgrounds. The government research will examine possible exposure to the chemicals contained in rubber tire crumbs. A summary of the Tire Crumb Rubber Characterization Study is expected to be released later in 2019.
As they wait for the latest studies, recycled tire mulch manufacturers continue to cite prior inconclusive studies as proof of their product’s safety. Liberty Tire Recycling offers a resource on their website titled Playground Rubber Mulch Research. The webpage lists links to prior reports, many of them referencing studies that are more than 10 years old. The most recent document linked by Liberty is a fact sheet from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, published in 2013. The fact sheet notes that Kansas also operates a grant program to encourage recycled tire products. Kansas depends on this program in order to combat scrap tire waste. It concludes, “…at the present time, there is inadequate evidence to modify the recycled tire product grant program or restrict the use of recycled waste tire products.”
It is unclear how many playgrounds are still using or considering the use of rubber mulch. It is difficult to find even concrete numbers on the total number of playgrounds in the US. One data set estimates that there are almost 90,000 public and private elementary schools nationwide. A prominent tire recycling company recently claimed to close sales with around 100 new accounts per year, including schools, daycares, and military facilities. Would these facilities continue to purchase rubber mulch if they understood the possible health risks?
Since the invention of rubber tires and the resulting tire landfills, recycling scrap tires has come a long way. Improvements in recycling efficiency have significantly contributed to the EPA’s efforts to solve this waste problem in the US. However, the use of rubber tire mulch in children’s playgrounds includes many health risks. Studies to determine those risks have been inconclusive regarding this product’s safety. Until those risks are fully understood, the sustainability of this product is in question. While it is important to recycle and find new uses for tire waste, we must do so in a way that is also sustainable for the health of our children.
History of Rubber Tire Mulch – A Timeline
View this infographic for the most comprehensive look at the history of rubber tire mulch as a playground surfacing material.
Jelly Bean is a non-toxic playground safety surface comprised of loose-fill rubber mulch that is a popular alternative to wood mulch and recycled tire mulch.
Issues associated with mulch made from recycled tires include safety concerns and potential health threats, leading some municipalities to ban its use on school and public playgrounds. Thus a need emerged for non-toxic rubber playground safety surface. Enter Jelly Bean mulch.
The Best Product For The Playground Requiring Top Safety Parameters on A Budget
With a top fall safety rating, a price well below pour-in-place surface, and certifiable medical-grade virgin rubber, the product offers a unique product market fit.
Jelly Bean mulch has become a popular choice for school playgrounds, daycares, church playgrounds, and public parks.
So Clean and Fresh
Clean Jelly Bean playground rubber mulch is made of medical-grade virgin rubber. To properly protect children and keep a cost low enough to attract the masses, Jelly Bean is the perfect sweet spot product that is both safe and cost-effective to save money over more expensive solid surface rubber.
Jelly Bean won’t rub off on children’s clothes or skin like tire mulch, is more durable than sand or wood mulch, and costs less than pour-in-place playground rubber.
Safest Mulch For Playgrounds
When it comes to choosing a safe play surface it is important to start with the goal of buying a product that is non-toxic and composed of non-tire rubber mulch.
Nobody wants dirty chopped-up tires with steel wires, potentially hazardous chemicals, paint leaching, and toxic smells all over their kids when at the park or school playground. This is where Jelly Bean rubber mulch comes into play – pun intended!
Safety Tiles and Virgin Medical Rubber Over Dirty Old Tires
Non-toxic Jelly Bean mulch provides a safer alternative since the origin of the rubber is known, the rubber is certified as non-toxic, as it is derived from rubber products like safety tile trimmings and other medical-grade product overages.
With the origin of the rubber known, and it being non-toxic, with little-to-no smell of the product, and no paint leaching or potential red list chemicals present, gives Jelly Bean rubber mulch an advantage over dirty tire mulch.
Furthermore, the product is soft, and feels great underfoot at the playground.
Little children in day cares love it as much as primary-age students. Jelly Bean mulch is even popular with dogs for doggy daycares and horses for stables and training.
Non-Toxic = Not Recycled Tire Rubber
Why do municipalities, churches, daycares, and schools prefer Jelly Bean mulch over the competitors, it often comes down to the non-toxic nature of the product.
The only thing worse than buying rubber tire mulch is having to remove it later on once a wire is found, toxins appear or paint leaches off of it. This process is costly and time-consuming. The liability of having such a product on-site can also come into play.
If You Put Lipstick on a Pig, Does It Still Oink Like One?
Yet many companies that sell rubber tire mulch champion it as a protector of children, with candy-colored paint to hammer home the point. Yet it is a dangerous product to keep around children, with more than just anecdotal evidence of toxicity abounding.
With Jelly Bean rubber mulch buyers ensure a long-lasting, stable, durable, play safety surface that will please parents, administrators, teachers, and most importantly, kids!
To choose Jelly Bean mulch surface is a wise choice for no other reason than the lack of toxicity in the product and the money you save over future rubber tire mulch removal.
At the same time, the product is comprised of a soft material free of heavy metal toxins or dangerous residue tire mulch might offer.
This fall safety rating exceeds the maximum for school playgrounds for a loose-fill rubber mulch product.
Save Money by Buying Once
While the product is as safe as it gets for playground safety surfacing, it isn’t as expensive as other products in the same category – like pour-in-place rubber.
Further, Jelly Bean mulch is easier to top off than having to repair and patch degraded areas of the pour-in-place product.
Jelly Bean lasts a very long time. We have many customers who have had their mulch for many years without any issues. It won’t easily blow away or degrade, so you have no need to feel like the playground safety surface will be an ongoing cost or liability to your organization.
Why Kids Love Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch
When you think of your younger days playing in a dug-out hole on the ground, or on a backyard playground, what comes to mind? Nostalgic thoughts of laughing, playing hide and seek, chasing friends around the playground endlessly, and maybe even taking on a dare or two to see who can climb up the steps the fastest and get back to the ground even quicker.
Joy Back To Playing On The Playground
Jelly Bean brings out that childhood joy in kids because it’s out of the way. It’s not like sand where there are granules getting stuck here and there, or hard like pea gravel. It’s not like wood mulch that could trigger an allergy or hold on to water and bugs.
Jelly Bean mulch is simply there to cushion their little feet and keep their bodies safe on the ground as they enjoy time with friends. Sure it looks great, and stays put, but it also isn’t obtrusive – and that’s why we think kids love it.
Soft to the touch, easy to play on, and yet stays clear of becoming a hindrance to play.
Not All Playground Rubber Mulch Brands Are Created Equal
Why are parks, schools, daycares, churches, and Headstart programs loving Jelly Bean? We think it’s the sweet spot product.
When you look at play surface products you have two categories, cheap and expensive.
Cheap products like wood mulch degrade over time, causing the illusion of affordability when in fact they are much more costly down the line if you account for all the refills annually.
Expensive products like poured-in-place rubber are attractive, and seen in world-class playgrounds around the world, but cost a lot of money to install. Further, to patch poured-in-place surfacing can be costly and time-consuming.
The Sweet Spot Product
The sweet spot product that is non-tire and non-toxic is Jelly Bean rubber mulch. We offer as little as a few tons for small commercial projects, up to many truckloads depending on the need.
The product won’t blow away, has little-to-no odor, and offers pricing that is value-driven over time because of the long-lasting nature of the virgin medical-grade rubber the product is made of.
Further, jelly bean rubber mulch has been tested as a top fall safety rating safety play surface. To create the exact mix of value, performance, safety, longevity, and knowing that it is free of any toxins, you have to go with Jelly Bean rubber mulch.
The Non-Tire Difference
Looking to install a safer product than the typical rubber tire mulch is a smart bet. In fact, it amazes us that there are still companies that recommend using rubber tire mulch as a playground safety surface product, despite the growing concerns over the safety and health issues associated with recycled tires.
Can you imagine young innocent children being exposed to phthalates, metals, steel wire, road residue, toxic odors, dirt, and so much more? This is why municipalities, churches, daycares, schools, and many other organizations simply refuse to even consider rubber tire mulch.
Legit Concerns
The concerns are particularly acute with mulch made from recycled tires, as many municipalities are banning its use in school and public playgrounds due to potential health issues and the presence of metal and other chemicals in tire-based rubber mulch.
The Non-Tire Difference
The non-tire difference starts with understanding that Jelly Bean mulch is free of contaminants, won’t blow away easily, is the leading loose-fill virgin rubber product on the market today, and is totally safe for kids to play on.
In fact, the product passes California indoor air quality standards, try that with dirty chopped-up tires!
The New Jelly Bean Product – Swing and Slide Mat
Over the course of much research and development, Jelly Bean has created new swing and slide mats that offer the same outstanding mix of durability, clean virgin rubber, and value for high-traffic areas under the swing and slides.
When kids play on a playground the first area, no matter the surface type, that often sees degradation is the floor under the swing and slides.
Enter the Jelly Bean Mat, a sturdy non-toxic swing and slide mat with perforated backing so that it doesn’t move easily when set in place atop the rubber mulch.
Final Thoughts
When considering non tire rubber mulch Jelly Bean made from the trimmings of safety tiles without red list chemicals should be on your list. Playground mulch is literally a large purchase, since it’s coming on a big freight truck, and figuratively as well, often costing in the thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
With playground safety top of mind, and tire mulch often pitched as a safe alternative, it is important to keep in mind all the distinctive benefits Jelly Bean offers when it comes to protecting childern on the playground – exceeding fall safety top rating, being easy to install and maintain, and costing less than pour-in-place rubber.
Considering rubber mulch for your landscaping or playground project? Bulk purchases cut costs and streamline the process, giving you an economical and practical solution.
This article breaks down the advantages of rubber mulch bulk orders, including the financial and operational benefits, and outlines what you should know to optimize your investment in the product.
Key Takeaways
Bulk rubber mulch provides an economical and durable surfacing option for large-scale landscaping and playground flooring projects, offering cost savings, convenience, and reduced maintenance compared to traditional materials.
Not all rubber mulch bulk orders are the same. Look at the product closely, is it made of old dirty chopped-up tires, or non-toxic virgin rubber like Jelly Bean offers? Doing your due diligence up front will save a lot of money later on if it turns out the product isn’t what you thought it would be.
High-quality rubber mulch stands out for its safety, environmental benefits, and versatility, with options for customization to suit any landscape design, while at the same time repurposing waste into valuable eco-friendly products.
Practical considerations for purchasing rubber mulch in bulk include storage, transportation, and installation, ensuring its quality is preserved and the application process goes smoothly for long-term, low-maintenance use.
Consider lead time – how much rubber mulch in bulk do you need, and when do you need it by? Often the factories will need some notice to produce, pack, and ship the product. Getting a free bulk rubber mulch quote is a good first step.
Bulk Rubber Mulch: The Economical Choice for Large Projects
When it comes to large-scale landscaping and safety-surfacing projects, the adage “buy in bulk” holds true, especially for rubber mulch. Purchasing directly from manufacturers not only provides an affordable price but also adds the convenience of free shipping on all bulk orders when you buy with Jelly Bean.
Whether you’re outfitting commercial playgrounds or revamping a vast park landscape, bulk rubber mulch offers a cost-effective solution.
With the added benefits of durability and long-term savings, rubber mulch outshines traditional options like wood mulch providing a superior cushion for playground equipment falls and a wise investment for your landscaping needs.
Understanding Bulk Quantities
Grasping the concept of bulk quantities is crucial when considering how much rubber mulch to order. A standard pallet of Rubberific Rubber Mulch, for instance, contains 50 bags, each with 1.5 cubic feet of mulch, and in total weighs around 1400 pounds and at the time of writing this post is $999. This price is for rubber mulch that is simply titled “recycled rubber” and has no warranty of being non-toxic.
Calculating the right amount of mulch bulk requires careful consideration of the area’s measurements and the desired depth for optimal coverage.
A single pallet can cover up to 450 square feet at a depth of 2 inches, making it a substantial supply for most landscaping projects. Always remember to calculate the necessary quantity of rubber mulch to ensure proper coverage and avoid surplus or shortage.
Venturing into wholesale prices reveals the significant cost savings inherent in bulk purchases. By opting for quantity discounts, the financial benefits become more pronounced, especially for large-scale needs. RhinoMulch’s offer of a discount on orders exceeding 7 tons exemplifies the economical choices available for larger projects.
If you are looking for non-toxic virgin rubber mulch in bulk, Jelly Bean provides discounts on truck loads and multiple truck loads, as well as value-added product discounts on durable swing and slide mats.
Such savings are not merely marginal; they accumulate to a substantial amount over time, providing a compelling reason for consumers to choose bulk rubber mulch for their landscaping projects.
Streamlined Ordering Process
In today’s world, convenience is king, and the procurement of bulk rubber mulch is no exception. With online price quotes and bulk purchase options, the ordering process is streamlined for accuracy and ease.
We offer a simple quote form to optimize the process and provide you with the best quote from our network of processing plants and shipping locations. All of this goes to ensure efficient sourcing and prompt delivery for bulk orders.
However, when finalizing bulk orders, it’s important to note that such purchases are often non-returnable, making the sale final. This underscores the need for careful planning and precise volume determination to avoid any potential issues.
Our nontoxic rubber mulch does not decompose easily, but some may degrade over time with use. So it is important to plan for the occasional top-off, and potentially store some on-site for later installation.
High-Quality Rubber Mulch: Why It Stands Out
Beyond its economic appeal, high-quality rubber mulch distinguishes itself with its resilience and safety features. This robust material offers the following benefits:
It remains stable for years, maintaining its position and reducing the need for replenishment, thanks to its resistance against rain or wind displacement.
Jelly Bean is non-toxic and safe for playgrounds, ensuring Jelly Bean rubber mulch provides safe surfaces for everyone with a long-term warranty.
Our mulch is made from virgin rubber and does not contain harmful chemicals. Additionally, high-quality rubber mulch is effective in discouraging pests such as termites and carpenter ants, unlike some wood mulches that can feed these pests.
These features make rubber mulch a great choice for landscaping and playgrounds. The use of rubber chips in playgrounds is particularly noteworthy for their safety, durability, and eco-friendly qualities, offering an excellent cushioning property and elasticity that enhances the safety of play areas compared to what is commonly seen like dirt, wood chips, grass, sand, and pea gravel.
From Recycled Tires to Your Playground – A Sad But True Story
The journey from discarded tires to a playground’s safety surfacing is trumpeted as a testament to sustainable innovation. Traditional rubber mulch is created by shredding scrap tires into small, uniform pieces, thus repurposing a waste product into a valuable landscaping material.
By using 100% recycled tire rubber for mulching, producers tout they conserve landfill space and reduce environmental waste, making it an eco-friendly choice for both commercial and residential playgrounds, yet these statements prove to be problematic when you look at the toxicity of tire rubber.
GroundSmart is one of the many vendors turning tire rubber into products like playground rubber mulch and tire chips, preventing scrap tires from accumulating in landfills, though potentially putting that toxicity into the hands of kids.
Non-Staining and Water Resistant Features
A practical aspect of rubber mulch is its non-staining and water-resistant features atop a weed barrier over dirt.
Unlike wood mulch, sand, grass, or other materials, non-toxic rubber mulch does not stain clothing or skin, a significant benefit for areas frequented by children and adults alike.
Non-toxic rubber mulch is resilient to water, this means rubber mulch does not absorb moisture, helping it to stay in place even under adverse weather conditions such as rain or wind.
While rubber mulch is long-lasting, it is not perfect, as some free granules will blow away or degrade with heavy use from fun-loving kids.
This overall water resistance assures a long-lasting and low-maintenance solution for landscaping needs, as it helps to absorb water effectively.
Safety and Environmental Benefits of Rubber Mulch
The advantages of rubber mulch include:
Aesthetics and convenience
Unparalleled safety
Environmental benefits
Approved surfacing option for playgrounds, known for its excellent fall protection qualities
Non-toxic options available like Jelly Bean
Fall Protection Standards
Safety is a paramount concern, particularly in areas designed for children’s play. Rubber mulch offers the following safety benefits:
It meets International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) certification.
It complies with ASTM standards F1292-19, F3012, and F3351 for playground safety surfacing.
It provides superior shock absorption properties, ensuring fall protection.
These safety features make rubber mulch a preferred option for playgrounds, ensuring the protection of children using the playground equipment.
Furthermore, it meets or surpasses ASTM guidelines for head impact attenuation, including ASTM F1292-04, which are crucial for fall protection on playgrounds.
Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic
In an age where sustainability is increasingly important, rubber mulch shines as an eco-friendly landscaping option. Here are some reasons why:
It repurposes spent tires, reducing waste and promoting recycling.
It contributes to LEED sustainability credits, making it a recognized environmentally-friendly choice.
Its durability prevents decay and compression, minimizing the environmental impact over its lifespan.
Moreover, Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch’s non-toxic composition ensures a safe environment for play and surrounding landscapes.
Practical Considerations When Buying Rubber Mulch Bulk
While the benefits of rubber mulch are clear, there are practical considerations to keep in mind when purchasing in bulk. Storage, transportation, and installation are key factors that can impact the success of your landscaping project.
Ensuring you have a plan for each of these elements will guarantee that your investment in bulk rubber mulch is both efficient and effective.
Storage Solutions for Bulk Orders
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and longevity of bulk rubber mulch. Keeping it in a dry, covered area prevents degradation and contamination, ensuring that the rubber mulch remains in top condition until it is needed.
Once on the playground or landscape field, occasional raking can help to prevent compaction and maintain even distribution, which is vital for prolonged storage.
Regular inspection and top-ups where necessary will ensure consistent coverage and quality.
Transportation Logistics
Planning for the arrival of your bulk rubber mulch is another critical step. Here’s what you need to know:
Bulk orders can be shipped nationwide, providing flexibility in delivery locations.
Typically, rubber mulch is shipped on standard pallets.
Curbside delivery includes lift gate service if requested.
Delivery is set up by appointment with the carrier.
Lead times vary based upon availability
The busiest time for producers is typically early spring to early summer, from late February to early June.
Ensuring that the delivery vehicle can access your drop-off location is a crucial consideration to avoid any transportation hiccups as well.
Installation Techniques
Installation is the final step in the process. Before laying down the rubber mulch, ensure proper drainage, lay weed fabric to prevent growth beneath the mulch, and stake it down. Mark out the area for mulch application in the dirt, and clear all existing vegetation.
After laying the landscape fabric, distribute the rubber mulch evenly, using a rake for uniformity. Achieving the correct depth is essential for proper coverage and safety, typically a few inches.
Regularly monitor the rubber mulch bulk order to ensure you received all the product you initially planned and signed up for.
Can You Get Non-Toxic Rubber Mulch Bulk in Specific Colors?
One of the joys of working with rubber mulch is the ability to customize orders to fit specific landscaping needs, though unfortunately, we can’t customize the colors much.
Our proprietary blend of top-fall protection non-toxic mulch is typically a gray, brown, or mix of colors.
Rubber tire mulch is often available in single colors, though we advise you be sure to ask what is under the coat of paint, where the rubber came from, if there is steel wire in it, and if it smells.
What we at Jelly Bean lack in color customization, we make up for in a superior tried-and-true product that is loved by schools, churches, daycares, parks, and municipalities.
Shredded vs. Nugget: Which to Choose?
The texture of rubber mulch can greatly affect the visual appeal of your landscaping project. Rubber mulch is available in various forms, including shredded and nugget-style, each offering a distinct look.
Shredded rubber mulch resembles traditional wood mulch, while nuggets provide a more uniform, rounded appearance.
The choice between shredded and nugget rubber mulch should reflect the desired aesthetic and functionality of your eco-friendly landscaping project.
For Jelly Bean we provide a flattened nugget-like product, that is perfect for kids to play atop of.
Maintenance and Longevity of Bulk Rubber Mulch
The allure of rubber mulch is further heightened by its:
Minimal maintenance requirements
Impressive longevity
Unlike wood mulch, rubber mulch doesn’t break down as quickly, often lasting several years before needing replacement
Its inert nature means it doesn’t attract bugs or pests
The resistance to wind and water erosion also simplifies maintenance, helping to maintain its appearance over time.
Routine Maintenance Tips
Maintaining the appearance and functionality of rubber mulch is straightforward. Here are some tips:
Regularly rake or blow the mulch to refresh its color and ensure it remains at the ideal depth.
To preserve its functionality, a thin new layer may be added as needed. Be cautious not to make it too deep to avoid water-repellency and plant root suffocation.
Remove weeds promptly by hand and replenish the mulch layer to the ideal thickness for effective sunlight blocking and weed suppression.
Regular turning and mixing of the rubber mulch is necessary to avoid compaction. Periodic cleaning with a water hose or by blowing off debris can keep rubber mulch clean with minimal effort.
The Long-Term Investment
Rubber mulch stands as a long-lasting investment, with a slow degradation rate that maintains its appearance and functionality for at least a decade with minimal maintenance. The lack of frequent replacement needs, as compared to wood mulch, prolongs its utility for over 10 years, making it a durable investment.
Furthermore, the cost savings when purchasing rubber mulch in bulk are significant, with potential savings up to 73% over a 12-year period compared to traditional wood mulch.
Successful Bulk Rubber Mulch Applications
The versatility of bulk rubber mulch is showcased in a variety of environments, from the cozy backyard playground to expansive commercial landscapes. Residential and commercial playgrounds have embraced rubber mulch for its safety features and ease of application.
Commercial landscaping projects leverage its eco-friendly, durable qualities, maintaining aesthetic appeal and reducing maintenance costs. These real-life applications are a testament to the adaptability and success of rubber mulch in diverse settings.
Summary
To wrap up, rubber mulch is an exceptional choice for those looking to combine aesthetics with eco-friendliness and safety in their landscaping projects. Its bulk purchasing options provide an economical solution for large-scale endeavors, while the variety of customizable colors and types allows for personalized and visually appealing designs. The safety standards and environmental benefits add to its allure, making it a sustainable choice for modern landscaping. With minimal maintenance and a long lifespan, rubber mulch stands as a smart, long-term investment for any outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how much rubber mulch I need for my project?
You can calculate how much rubber mulch you need by measuring the area’s dimensions and deciding on the desired depth of mulch coverage, keeping in mind that a single pallet typically covers up to 450 square feet at a depth of 2 inches.
Is rubber mulch safe for children and pets?
Yes, high-quality rubber mulch is considered safe for children and pets, making it a suitable choice for playgrounds and other areas they frequent.
Some pet owners build out dog parks with non-toxic rubber mulch bulk orders, and horses love our Equibean product in bulk.
Children love Jelly Bean rubber mulch, and have played on it successfully for many years.
What are the environmental benefits of using rubber mulch?
Using rubber mulch helps reduce landfill waste, add to the sustainability goals of any organization and minimizes the need for chemical pest treatments due to its non-toxic nature and ability to repel harmful insects such as termites.
These environmental benefits make it a sustainable choice for landscaping and the playground.
How long does rubber mulch last compared to wood mulch?
Rubber mulch can last at least a decade with minimal maintenance, often outlasting wood mulch due to its high durability.
When you purchase rubber mulch in bulk you can expect it to last far longer than a natural product, due to the fact that it does not easily degrade or blow away in the wind.
Can rubber mulch be used in all types of landscaping projects?
Yes, rubber mulch can be used in various landscaping applications, including residential playgrounds and commercial landscapes, due to its safety features, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Inclusive playgrounds are becoming more popular for a lot of good reasons. The playground safety level is as good, if not better on a lot of these newer playgrounds. Here we briefly highlight five worth checking out.
Oakledge – Burlington, VT
Never go down the slide alone again, as this playground features a family-friendly slide wide enough for the whole crew!
The park also happens to be Vermont’s first fully inclusive playground, offering ramps, and attractions for all ages and abilities.
Boundless Park – Rochester, MN
Ever seen a slide big enough for a wheelchair to slide down? You will at Boundless Park.
The Beaver House is an attraction all kids will love to set their sights on as well.
Colorful, cartoonish animal features, and giant mushrooms – what else can a child ask for? Brendan’s playground is full of fun inclusive play features, including a large swing, roller slide, and musical instruments.
Going on a hot day? Cool off at the adjacent splash pad.
With ramps galore, adaptive flooring, and accessibility for powerchairs, wheelchairs, and those on crutches, the playground is the first of its kind in Tulsa.
Looking for a thrill? Check out the wheelchair-accessible aero glider, which rocks in a motion similar to those on a swing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cs4VOsPSMMY
Swing and Slide Mats + New Rubber Supply
From new best-in-class swing mats, to growing stock levels, to exciting new projects, we’ve been super busy and are excited as ever to share with you.
Jelly Bean Mat, The Antidote For High Impact Play Areas
Take a look at the area under swings and slides at any playground around the country, and you’ll see signs of use and often degradation of the play surface. Often, such swing and slide use results in rutted-out divots that can prove harmful to children if not addressed properly.
Enter the Jelly Bean Rubber Mat, a 100% non-toxic sustainable swing mat made from recycled virgin rubber.
Our new swing mat is as durable as they come at a whopping 97lbs. The weight of the mat creates a natural anchor to keep it firm in these high-traffic areas of the playground.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjSYkzDB0vY
New Inventory Producing Faster Turnaround Times
We are excited to announce new partnerships nationwide with our rubber manufacturers that have enabled us to produce more product faster.
While lead times will vary throughout this busy season, we do expect overall time to ship and deliver to improve with these advances in inventory levels.
Today is a great time to check in with John and see what type of playground mulch you might need this year for your playground.
Spring is here. It’s playground time again. It’s not that playground safety isn’t common sense, but it never helps to have a few reminders for busy parents to take hold of.
Below you’ll find five playground safety tips to keep in mind this year.
5 Reasons Why Customers Love Jelly Bean
Why do people love Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch so much? We’ve complied five top reasons that we hear over and over again from customers satisfied with our product.
Non-Toxic
When deciding to buy rubber mulch play safety surfacing the first option often are chopped up tires. Anyone that’s had experience with rubber tire mulch knows the hazards of it – toxic, smelly, potential steel wires, leaching of paint, and so on. So they then search for a non-toxic rubber mulch and find us.
We are 100% lead and phthalate free. We are also free of red list chemicals and any foreign materials like steel wire. We are even certified for California’s stringent indoor air standards.
It is worth repeating that Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch is free of tires.
Our product is made from the excess scraps of safety tiles that are made of virgin rubber.
Kids Love It
Once kids get a chance to try Jelly Bean, they instantly love it. The colorful nature of it, the softness under foot, and yet the product remains firm enough for children to run, tumble, and have fun without fear of injury.
Long-Lasting
With a an industry best 20 year degradation warranty, we stand behind our product.
Unlike wood mulch that needs replacing often, Jelly Bean lasts for many years. This adds to the value of the product over time, since you won’t need to replace it even after many years. A simple topping off on occasion will do the trick for most schools, parks and daycares.
Compliant
The Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch product is 100% compliant with ASTM standards, offers maximum fall safety rating, and is used successfully by parks, schools, daycares, HOA’s, head start programs and churches across the country.
Get a Quote Today
If you’re in the market for playground rubber mulch give us a chance to present you with a no-obligaiton free quote for your playground today.
Playground surfacing is something many need and yet complex enough that it takes some digging to figure out the best product suitable for each unique application. We dive deep to find you the best answers for the top playground surfacing questions.
What is the safest surface to use under playground equipment?
Depending on your playground design, size, project budget, and equipment used it may vary, though a surface that is non-toxic with a maximum fall safety rating like Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch is often at the top of the list as a sweet spot product that is long lasting, affordable for the lifespan, yet not as costly as pour-in-place or safety tiles.
What is the rubber stuff in playgrounds called?
Rubber mulch or pour-in-place. If not one of those two it would most likely be a playground safety tile or mat.
How do you repair a rubber playground surface?
Repairing a pour-in-place surface varies depending on the size of the damaged area. For smaller damaged areas there will be SBR tire rubber mixed with EPDM and a binder put on top through a hole and patch like method.
Unattended holes and tears can lead to larger issues with the surface in the future and chemical exposure of the tire rubber to kids.
What are the soft surfaces that should be under and around all playground equipment?
What is a type of protective surfacing that can be used to cushion falls?
Non-toxic Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch has a top fall safety rating and maximum impact attenuation score with the governing body overseeing playground safety ASTM.
What is the playground floor made of?
Depending on the playground, often it is either wood mulch, sand, drit, pea gravel or rubber. The rubber can come in the form of chopped up dirty tires – referred to us rubber tire mulch – or virgin rubber safety tiles. Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch offers a loose-fill rubber mulch that is non-toxic and long lasting.
How long does poured in place rubber last?
The manufacturers say 10 years, but go to most playgrounds and you’ll see holes. The surface is very nice under foot, but tends to be prone to costly repairs, and uses old dirty tires as a source of “bounce” that can expose kids to toxins and steel wire if exposed.
How do you install a rubber playground surface?
Installation depends on the type, weather it is pour-in-place or loose fill like Jelly Bean, or virgin rubber safety tiles. With PIP it takes a team of professionals to set the floor in place with machines and chemical binders.
With loose fill surfaces, like non-toxic Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch, a few staff members or volunteers can rake the surface into place in a few hours time.
An underlayment is recommended prior to installation.
The product is delivered in a supersack on a pallet, so plan on using a Bobcat, forklift, or wheelbarrow to move the product from the point of delivery to the playground.
Do it yourself pour in place rubber?
Kits are available for smaller areas, though for larger 1,000 sq ft and up it is recommended you use a professional installer.
How much does pour in place rubber cost?
The latest numbers are anywhere from $8-$14 or more per square foot. A lot depends on your needs for depth with safety regulations such as put forth by ASTM, and type of product you want, like virgin rubber versus old tires.
What is the difference between playground mulch and regular mulch?
Wood mulch can vary by type depending on use, like for gardening or landscaping. Playground mulch must meet stringent fall safety ratings to ensure the safety of kids when they fall on the playground and protect against liability for the playground owner.
Rubber mulch is another popular playground safety surface. There is tire mulch or crumb rubber, which are made up of old chopped up tires. Then there is non-toxic rubber mulch, like Jelly Bean, that is produced from virgin rubber shavings of safety tiles.
What kind of mulch is best used in a playground?
The one you can afford with the top fall safety rating. Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch has been called the sweet spot product for having the trifecta of top fall safety rating, long lasting, and free of toxins or foreign materials like tire mulch might put out.
How much does playground mulch cost?
It all depends on the size of the playground, the type of mulch, and the depth of the mulch. The bigger the playground the more product you will need, and that will lead to greater discounts on the product from buying direct bulk playground rubber mulch.
In terms of the type, wood mulch is least expensive. Then rubber tire mulch might be less expensive since it’s made from old dirty chopped up tires. Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch is non-toxic while costing more than traditional wood mulch and rubber tire mulch, it costs less than pour-in-place or safety tiles.
What is playground wood mulch?
It is a popular surface that is natural, achieves a good fall safety rating and is soft underfoot. Though it degrades quickly which leads to high replacement cost, and can put off allergens that can cause harm to kids with sensitivities to such.
Get a Quote Today
If you’re in the market for playground rubber mulch give us a chance to present you with a no-obligaiton free quote for your playground today.
Determining the proper playground mulch depth when it comes to school playgrounds is of utmost importance for safety, cost, and regulatory approval.
First, you must define what type of playground mulch you are planning to use on the school playground. If it is wood mulch or engineered wood fibers, the depth will vary, and could even be impacted by rain or wind degradation over time.
Information on a variety of playground surface suggested depths can be found in the Handbook for Playground Safety.
For the purpose of this post we will focus exclusively on non-toxic Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch. This product has been tested and exceeds the maximum fall safety rating for school playgrounds.
Why focus on playground mulch depth? The primary reasons are to ensure the safety of students, the costs and financial considerations for the school, and accessories needed such as boarders or retaining walls.
We find the proper playground mulch depth to be 6 inches for many school playgrounds.
Learn more about ASTM Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials within the Use Zone of Playground Equipment via their website.
At 6 inches of compacted depth the Jelly Bean Rubber Mulch exceeds the test parameters of a child falling from 17ft.
Max safety rating depth varies for some states and regions, and may require higher amounts of depth. It is important to check with state and local regulators to get a clear idea of what required depth of playground rubber mulch is required for your elementary or middle school playground.
This is a very important issue that one should look at in-depth before making a purchase. Planning now can save time and money, and even prevent injury, down the line.
Get a free quote for Jelly Bean for your school playground today.
Get a Quote Today
If you’re in the market for playground rubber mulch give us a chance to present you with a no-obligaiton free quote for your playground today.
Non-toxic Jelly Bean rubber mulch on the other hand is made up of 100% virgin, non-tire rubber that is extracted from safety tiles meant for indoor use. These tiles are made of surgical-grade rubber, and 100% safe for kids to play on.
There are no steel wires in Jelly Bean, no paint leaching, no road residue, etc. Just soft fun surfacing for kids to tumble on with a best-in-class fall safety rating.
Jelly Bean has been so popular that oftentimes organizations that need to have rubber tire mulch replaced do so with Jelly Bean.
Where
Now, to the question at hand, where to buy rubber mulch for playgrounds in large amounts? Typically the answer is direct from the manufacturer. While there are some exceptions to this rule, like ordering from an equipment distributor, here at Jelly Bean we sell directly to the end user.
Advantages of Going Direct
As you can imagine when you think about where to buy rubber mulch for a playground in large amounts it can be difficult to figure out the benefits of going direct vs with a distributor of some type.
When you go direct you are dealing with the experts in playground rubber mulch. This means you will be ensured of having an expert quote from a dedicated sales rep that is exactly to the specs you need it to be.
School that needs to meet department of education requirements? No problem. Park that needs to meet city, state or federal requirements? Been there done that. We can assist in all the applications you can think of when it comes to playground rubber mulch, including commonly asked questions like what is the proper playground mulch depth or do we need borders with this playground surface.
Not only do you get expertise when the order comes in direct, but you also achieve the best price for your needs, PO options, and even financing for those that want to spread the payments out over a few years.
How The Process Works
Quote
When you decide where to buy rubber mulch for your playground in large amounts, the next step is to get a quote. We typically have clients fill out a quote form, though they may call us if they need clarity on anything.
Email
Once the quote form is filled out an email goes out sharing all the cost details regarding the order.
Payment
After sending in a purchase order or paying with a credit card or bank wire, we dispatch your order for processing and shipment.
Shipping
We handle all the shipping to your doorstep, and can supply accessories if needed.
It’s really as simple as 1,2,3,4.
Hopefully this addressed all your concerns regarding where to buy rubber mulch for the playground in large amounts. Call or fill out our online quote form today for playground rubber mulch.
Get a Quote Today
If you’re in the market for playground rubber mulch give us a chance to present you with a no-obligaiton free quote for your playground today.
Let’s look at a comprehensive history of the product, diving into it’s playground surfacing roots.
