Some of the most common questions we get from customers, are how long rubber chipping surfaces will last, and how often the chippings will need replacing. With proper installation and care rubber chippings can last forever, so whilst they may be a larger initial investment than wood or organic materials, they will cost less in the long run.
Rubber chippings last a long time, but if you’re using them in high traffic areas or for safety reasons (such as in play areas and horse arenas), you’ll want to check regularly to ensure there are no hazards.
No matter where you’re using them, how well you care for your chippings will dictate whether they last.
Signs your rubber chippings need replacing
Signs to look for that indicate you may need to top-up or replace your rubber chippings:
- Mould; usually caused by poor drainage when installing the product, mould growth will deteriorate rubber chippings, you’ll need to fully replace the area and install proper drainage.
- Uneven surface; on play areas or horse arenas an irregular surface can cause injuries. This could be as simple as raking the chippings back so they’re even, but it could also be a sign the ground underneath wasn’t evened out properly during installation, in which case we’d recommend taking the chippings up and preparing the area properly.
- Not enough depth; if over time your rubber chippings have dispersed, you can prevent this with proper edging, or they simply weren’t installed deep enough in the first place, you should consider topping them up. We recommend at least 3 inches for play areas and horse arenas, deeper if you’re riding intensely, such as gallops and jumps.
How to find a match for your current rubber chippings
If you already have rubber chippings, and need a top-up, you’ll want to find the closest match colour, texture and size-wise. At Rubber Professional Surfaces we’ve been helping customers match top-up chippings to their current ones for years, if you need any help simply get in touch and we’ll help you find a match your current chippings that will blend well.