Soft Tarmac

The term “soft tarmac” is often incorrectly used to describe wetpour rubber surfacing.

This misnomer is commonly used by headteachers and others who mistake the surface for tarmac due to its appearance.

Using the correct terminology is crucial because some also name the surface “rubber tarmac” or “spongy tarmac”, particularly for playground safety and maintenance.

In this article, we will cover the Understanding of the Misconception of “Soft Tarmac” vs. Wetpour Rubber Surfacing.

The Incorrect Use of “Soft Tarmac”

The term “soft tarmac” is inaccurate because tarmac is a hard surface.

People frequently refer to wetpour rubber surfacing as “soft tarmac” due to its soft texture and similar appearance to asphalt or tarmacadam.

Soft Tarmac Rubber Playground Wetpour Surface

However, unlike tarmac, which is composed of bitumen and aggregate, wetpour rubber surfaces consist of entirely different materials.

There is a range colours to choose from when ordering soft tarmac. Often, children prefer brighter colours that add to their equipment.

What Is Tarmacadam (Tarmac)?

Tarmacadam, commonly known by the brand name Tarmac, is a hard, durable surface made by binding aggregate with bitumen, asphaltic concrete or asphalt.

It has been used for over a century in roadways, driveways, playgrounds and other surfaces. Tarmac creates a rigid surface designed for heavy traffic, but it lacks flexibility and shock absorbency, which makes it unsuitable for playgrounds where safety is a priority.

What Is Wetpour Rubber Surfacing?

Wetpour rubber surfacing is a specialised material used for creating soft, impact-absorbing surfaces.

It is made from Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR), Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), and a Polyurethane (PU) binder.

These materials provide flexibility and safety, making wetpour the ideal choice for playgrounds and sports facilities.

Wetpour surfaces are poured on-site and are specifically designed to minimise injury from falls.

Soft Tarmac Wetpour Rubber Surfacing for Play Areas

Comparing Tarmac and Wetpour Rubber Surfacing

Tarmac is a hard, durable surface commonly used for roads and pavements.

It is not designed for shock absorption and is not appropriate for safety-critical areas. In contrast, wetpour rubber surfacing is soft, flexible, and impact-absorbing, designed to protect children from falls in playgrounds.

The visual similarity between the two often confuses, but their functional differences are significant.

Why the Soft Tarmac Confusion Exists?

The confusion between soft rubber tarmac and wetpour rubber surfaces arises because both can appear visually similar, especially from a distance.

Wetpour surfaces, with their smooth, uniform appearance, can be mistaken for tarmacadam by those unfamiliar with the materials.

This misunderstanding is common in schools and playgrounds, where wet pour is frequently referred to as “soft tarmac” by those who may not know the correct terminology.

There are lots of factors that differentiate the two types of surfacing from one another.

Advantages of Wetpour Rubber Surfacing

Wetpour rubber surfacing offers several benefits, especially in playgrounds and recreational areas.

It is shock-absorbent, which significantly reduces the risk of injury from falls. Those searching for safety surfacing opt for rubber granules, these materials provide a depth and base layer that can protect children that may fall from play equipment or trip in the playground.

The material is also durable and quality requiring minimal maintenance. Making it a cost-effective solution for safety surfaces.

Wetpour comes in a variety of colours and designs, allowing for creative and fun playground aesthetics.

Soft tarmac (correctly known as wetpour) is a porous material. You can be sure of drainage and no puddles on wetpour paving.

Before being able to begin the wetpour installation, a suitable sub base is required. We can add the rubber granules on top of concrete, tarmac or MOT type 1 stone.

The paving will need to be done right to the edge and meet our requirements, give as much information as you can during the quotation process and our team will help you find the best paving, wetpour or grass surface.

What Are the Disadvantages of Wetpour Rubber Surfacing?

Wetpour rubber surfacing has a few disadvantages that should be considered.

The material can shrink and expand in response to changing weather conditions, which can lead to cracking or gaps over time.

Additionally, wetpour can be easily damaged or vandalised, necessitating frequent repairs.

It is important to address any issues promptly by contacting an emergency wetpour repair company.

For fast and reliable service, we strongly recommend using wetpourrepair.co.uk to handle these repairs effectively.

Where is Soft Tarmac Used?

Soft tarmac, correctly known as wetpour rubber granules is often used in playgrounds, nurseries, schools and under play equipment.

The EPDM rubber provides a safety base layer and is created at a depth that meets the critical fall height. Making it the ideal solution for a nursery or school play area. It is also possible to add graphics and colours making it stimulating or a part of the play area.

It’s a great option for a playground or play area, used where there’s swings, gym equipment, play equipment or a climbing frame.

Can Wetpour Be Used as Protection?

When wetpour is installed in a playground or play area at the right depth for the critical fall height, it offers protection as a safety surface.

Due to the rubber materials and rubber mulch, it provide sth perfect base layer to improve safety.

It is often the choice for playgrounds with various play equipment such as swings and climbing frames.

Conclusion

Using the correct terminology for surfaces like wetpour rubber surfacing is essential for clarity and safety.

While the term “soft tarmac” is commonly used, it is technically incorrect.

Wetpour rubber surfacing, made from SBR, EPDM, and PU binder, provides essential shock absorption and safety for playgrounds and should be recognised as the proper material.

Areas We Cover

Other Names Used For Wet Pour Rubber Surface

Here are some other names used for wet pour rubber surfaces:

Soft play tarmac is a name used for wetpour surfacing
Bouncy tarmac surface is a name used for wetpour surfacing
Spongy tarmac surface is a name used for wet pour surfacing
Rubber tarmac playground surface is a name used for wet pour surfacing
Soft tarmac for play areas is a name used for wetpour playground surfacing
Rubber play tarmac is a name used for wet pour playground surfacing

All these names mean wetpour surfaces, which are durable, slip-resistant rubber safety surfaces typically used in playgrounds and sports areas, made by pouring and curing a mixture of rubber granules and a polyurethane binder on-site.