When choosing the pavement for the arrangement of various playgrounds or athletics tracks, several factors must be taken into account: user safety, the space at hand, the, preferences for a particular chromatic, the chosen style of arrangement, the budget available for the completion of the project.
Tartan has become a must-have of spaces dedicated to movement, arranged both outdoors and in indoor locations. Proper casting of this material on the surfaces of interest ensures that a result that successfully manages to combine the attractive appearance with the highest level of safety.
Waterboyz Romania specialists recommend cast tartan instead of turf or cement for playgrounds or running, as it provides a lot of long-term benefits: safety determined by the flexible character of the material, which is, with a role in shock absorption, durability, relatively low costs for its maintenance, proven resistance to various factors: frequent use, precipitation, extremes in thermometers.
Manufacture tartan: the process explained step by step
Cast tartan can be applied both in the indoor and outdoor environment. Before the start of the actual process of casting this type of pavement, Waterboyz specialists will make sure that the surface to be applied is ready (Step 1). This base must be cleaned, dried and leveled very well in advance. If not leveled or cleaned properly, cast tartan may show bumps at the time of project completion.
Also, the, before pouring on the surface of interest the main ingredients in the composition of the cast tartan - SBR rubber granules and EPDM with special binder - it may also be necessary to apply a layer of asphalt or concrete, for strengthening the foundation.
The process of making tartan and applying it to that surface (Step 2) begins with pouring a primer layer. Following this step, the SBR rubber granules are mixed with EPDM granules and binder, then applied with a finishing machine, according to the project developed together with our specialists.
The choice of tartan thickness, whether it is cast tartan or tartan tiles, is also a very important aspect. The higher the play elements, the thicker the tartan should be according to European safety standards. The thickness of the tartan determines its degree of attenuation of the impact with the soil. Molded tartan can be applied to a thickness ranging from 13-65 mm.
The cast tartan is famous for the multitude of aesthetic possibilities it offers! Different models can be created, depending on the theme of the playground. From rainbows, popcorn and sea shapes, to geometric shapes, games like sotron or X and 0. It has a wide range of colors, such as red, green, yellow, blue, orange, brown, which are vibrant and undemanding over time.
The laying of the tartan floor ends with the detailed verification of the result obtained (Step 3). Waterboyz specialists will analyze the level of the applied material, making sure that there are no bumps or other defects. Moreover, they will check whether the cast tartan is well fixed to the support surface, so as to prevent its slippage, a risk factor for the safety and comfort of users. See the final result of the project with tartan cast at Cambridge School Constanta!
What are SBR rubber granules?
SBR granules (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) are obtained as a result of the use of post-production waste from the automotive industry (e.g., used tires, vulcanized rubber products), therefore, they are extremely resistant to abrasion. They have a tougher consistency than that of EPDM granules, thus providing high wear durability.
That is why they play the role of the base layer for EPDM granules. The cast tartan in whose composition they are included is appreciated for its varied advantages. Therefore, it is used to arrange spaces for physical activities of all ages, indoor and outdoor: playgrounds, athletics tracks, sports fields.
What are EPDM rubber granules?
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) granules are made from an organic synthetic elastomer with properties at least equivalent to those of virgin natural rubber after vulcanization. They are available in vibrant colors, whose intensity is kept at the same high level as time goes by.
That is why the surfaces covered with molded tartan, in whose composition EPDM granules are located, give color and charm to play areas in parks, schools or kindergartens. They meet the highest safety standards, and the graphic patterns that may be present on their surface help mark sports fields.
Molded tartan or rubber tiles made of tartan?
There is also a more affordable variant of cast tartan, more precisely the tiles. Tartan tiles are also available in a wide range of colors (black, red, yellow, green, orange, yellow, orange, and red, brown) and can create different patterns according to your wishes.
They are resistant to weathering, UV rays and intense wear. It has a waterproof, non-slip and hard surface, bearing large weights, but being smooth to the touch and having the ideal degree of elasticity for mitigating falls.
The choice of the right type of tartan for the needs of a particular project is made according to several factors. For example, if a space needs to be completed in record time and at low cost, tartan tiles are the right choice. If, however, a complex design is desired, with more diverse drawings and color gamut, then cast tartan is ideal.
Waterboyz now includes both cast and tartan tiles of different thicknesses and colors in the online offer. Our specialists offer specialized consultancy that allows you to find out more about this innovative paviment. Contact us to make the right choice together!
