Paint and playground markings can bring a fresh and vibrant look to dull asphalt or concrete playground areas and create a fun learning space for students. However, the cost of playground markings can sometimes be prohibitive. The size of the area and the complexity of the designs can significantly influence the overall cost of painting and playground markings.
It is also important to consider the cost of preparing the playground surface before application. If the surface requires cleaning, repairing cracks or a primer coat this can increase the overall cost of the project. Hiring professional contractors for installation playground marking paint may also result in additional labour costs that should be factored into the final costs of the project.
One option that can help to reduce the cost of playground markings is to use thermoplastic markings rather than traditional painted markings. Unlike painted markings that fade and lose their colour over time, thermoplastic markings last for years and remain just as bright and colourful even after a lot of wear and tear. Additionally, thermoplastic markings are safe and non-slip and can be applied to a wide range of surfaces including concrete and tarmac.
Thermoplastic markings are also much quicker to install than painted markings. In most cases, they can be installed in just 30 minutes and the surface is ready to play on immediately afterwards. Compared to paint, which takes much longer and requires the surface to be completely dry before children can safely play on it.
When using paint for playground markings it is advisable to only use water-based latex paints that are specifically formulated for paving. This type of paint is safer and faster to dry than oil-based paint and will not stain the surface. It is also a good idea to sweep and wash down the entire surface area before starting to paint in order to ensure that it is clean, free from debris and able to absorb the new markings.
The use of colourful painted games and markings can encourage students to engage in physical activities, helping them to achieve the recommended 60 minutes of exercise per day. Designs such as hopscotch, mazes and sports-related markings can motivate kids to get active while having fun at the same time. Educational designs like letters, numbers and shapes can also be used to improve students’ learning and literacy skills. These visual learning resources are ideal for primary schools and are a great way to add an element of education into a fun outdoor space.