Two popular choices for surfacing gardens, playgrounds, and landscaped areas: but which is best?
Rubber mulch and wood bark are widely used for similar applications, offering ground cover, aesthetic appeal, and soil protection. While wood mulch has long been the traditional option, rubber mulch has gained popularity due to its durability, safety, and environmental benefits. Both materials serve similar purposes, but their differences can make one a better option depending on your needs. Each has its characteristics, but which one is right for your project? Let’s take a closer look.
Rubber Mulch: A Durable & Eco-Friendly Solution
Manufactured from high-quality recycled tyres, PERMABOUND rubber mulch is a long-lasting and sustainable surfacing option that keeps waste out of landfills. It offers excellent impact absorption, making it one of the safest choices for playgrounds and high-traffic areas. Unlike wood mulch, rubber mulch does not splinter, making it safer for children and pets. Its UV-resistant properties ensure that colours stay vibrant over time, and it does not decompose, meaning less maintenance and fewer replacements. Rubber mulch is also highly permeable, allowing water to drain efficiently and preventing waterlogging in landscaped areas.
Thanks to its natural look and anti-slip properties, rubber mulch works well for pathways as well as playgrounds. Typically mixed with a resin binder, it can be installed at varying depths to achieve critical fall height protection, providing extra safety in impact-prone areas. It is also resistant to pests and weeds, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
To experience the quality of PERMABOUND rubber mulch for yourself, don’t miss the chance to order a free sample today. If you’re happy with it, it could be just in time to refresh your outdoor space this summer.
Wood Mulch: A Traditional but High-Maintenance Choice
Wood mulch has long been a go-to option for gardens and landscaping projects. It provides a natural aesthetic and can help retain soil moisture while gradually enriching the soil as it decomposes. However, this decomposition process means that wood mulch requires regular replenishment, making it more labour-intensive and costly over time.
One of the biggest drawbacks of wood mulch is its susceptibility to pests such as woodlice and ants. It can also attract mould in damp conditions. Additionally, wood mulch can be a safety concern in playgrounds due to its tendency to splinter, increasing the risk of minor injuries. It may also become compacted over time, reducing its effectiveness in water drainage.
Conclusion: Which One is Right for You?
When choosing the best mulch for your project, consider factors such as safety, longevity, maintenance, and environmental impact. Rubber mulch offers a long-lasting, eco-friendly solution that requires minimal upkeep and provides superior safety benefits. Wood mulch, while traditional, demands more frequent replacement and is less durable in the long run.
Explore the range of PERMABOUND rubber mulch and order a free sample today to experience the quality of rubber mulch for yourself. Contact PERMABOUND for expert advice on finding the most suitable option for your purposes.
