Shade structures are a valuable addition to a playground — here are 5 ways shade structures enhance the overall appeal and usability of a playground.
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In Arizona and California, sun shade structures are an essential element of playground design. From protection to aesthetics, shade structures offer a variety of helpful purposes.
Let’s look at the benefits of having commercial sun shades on playgrounds!
Exposure to harmful UV rays as a child can result in health problems that manifest as an adult — such as melanoma and skin cancer. Short-term negative effects include sunburns and heat illness. While sunscreen protects children's skin while they are playing at the park, it is simply not enough.
UV levels are strongest between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, which is peak playtime for children. It is very important that playground equipment is covered during these times to give children extra protection from the long and short-term effects of intense sun exposure.
A playground shade structure is a viable solution to this issue because it can block up to 98% of harmful UV rays!
Playgrounds are essential for children's cognitive, physical, and social development. That being said, we do not want to have to limit playtime because the temperature may be hotter in the summer. Shade structures keep spaces cooler by 25 degrees; including the equipment itself! This will ensure children are able to get their daily dose of playtime while staying safe and without having to cut it short because of the direct sun.
Many playground injuries occur from playgrounds that are placed in direct sunlight; this is also common in the winter months. Shade structures protect against painful burns and give children boundless opportunities on playgrounds. Sun shades will keep steel equipment cool by keeping it out of direct sunlight, so it can be used safely all day long.
Sun shade structures can extend the lifespan of playgrounds by minimizing the effects of harsh weather conditions that may damage playground structures, such as rain. Just like paint on a car, playground equipment can experience fading when exposed to direct sunlight. With sun shades, you can keep your playground structures looking fresh for years to come.
Shade structures also provide a unique and intriguing aesthetic element to your playground to make the playground more attractive to families and kids alike.
Here at Zoom Recreation, we offer a variety of interesting shade structures; such as umbrella shades, sail shades, and rectangle-shaped shades. If you want to get even more creative, we offer fully custom shades — such as a halo disc shade or flower shades!
Our sunshade structure fabric also comes in a variety of different colors to match your playground equipment and the surrounding environment. Choosing a complementary color palette will elevate the aesthetic design of your playground structure.
Installing shade structures for playgrounds is crucial for several reasons. After considering the benefits of sunshades, playground owners can create safer, more enjoyable, and visually appealing environments for children to play and thrive.
So — let’s get to work on your shade structure design and installation! Contact us today so we can learn more about your park, school, or residential area to design a sun shade that complements your space and keeps your visitors safe.
Zoom Recreation strives to create efficient recreational spaces and provide exceptional customer service. Superior awarded us their highest President's Award and Gold Club Awards two years in a row.
Contact usAs the exclusive representative of Superior Recreational Products in your local area, Zoom is committed to recommending, providing and installing only the top products for all our customers.
