Frequently Asked Questions
Is taking the plunge into a new play area project for you? Chances are good that it is. Here are some of the most common questions, doubts and fears that people have before taking the leap. We've categorized them by product related areas; scroll through to the area that's most on topic to your interests:
- Play Equipment
- Spray Park Equipment
- Wood Surfacing
- Rubber Safety Surfacing: (Pour in Place rubber)
- Fabric Shade Structures
- Steel Shelter Structures
- Play Equipment
- How can Miracle Playsystems help me design and build my playground?
- We have spent 30+ years understanding and working with landscape architects, cities, school districts and community groups to design and implement unique play options for the changing play industry. We have the most up to date design software and cutting edge products that have proven track records in public settings. This experience allows us to cater to your group more effectively than any other organization.
- How do I get a catalog mailed to me?
- Email us at info@miracleplaygroup.com with the subject “catalog” and include your mailing address and full name and we'll drop one in the mail to you. Please let us know what equipment you'd like information on.
- Are your playgrounds certified ADA compliant and do they meet IPEMA standards?
- Yes. Miracle Playsystems takes a proactive approach to safety compliance by continuously upgrading our products and creating new commercial playground equipment that meet or exceed the US safety requirements including guidelines set forth by The International Playground Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA), The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ASTM International. Our play equipment is also designed in accordance with the latest American with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
- How do I know if a play structure is safe and will pass inspection?
- Our playground consultants work closely with our clients to help them understand the current regulations, safety requirements and other important site issues that are critical to the success of every play environment.
- How much does a playground cost?
- The cost of playground structures varies greatly and is dependent on many factors. Most any budget can be met utilizing a variety of surfacing and site options. Our products range from $3000 up to $250,000 depending on your needs.
- Is it possible to build a playground in phases?
- Yes. Miracle Playsystems' equipment is modular meaning that every piece can stand alone. As our clients' needs evolve and budgets become available, playground structures can be easily updated by adding new features.
- How much money do you save by using a community-build model instead of hiring a contractor?
- You will save money by building a playground yourself, but you need to remember that a certified installer who installs playgrounds for a living everyday is better set up to do so. That said, should you choose to install the equipment yourself, all equipment comes with a detailed instruction booklet and the necessary parts to assemble it. You'll need to have adequate man power and machinery along with people who are committed to completing the project swiftly. We find that people who are handy with basic hand tools are better at building this equipment.
- Who do I contact in to begin the process of getting a new playground?
- You can call us at 800-879-7730 and we'll plan a time to meet with you and discuss your needs. You can also email us at info@miracleplaygroup.com
- How can my playgrounds become more accessible to children with special needs?
- We work directly with our customers to ensure that every playground meets the most current compliance standards for accessibility. We have even partnered with the nationally recognize non-profit organization, Boundless Playgrounds, which we work closely with the design 100% accessible play equipment for children of all needs.
- What kind of surfacing should we install under our playground?
- We recommend either engineered wood fiber installed at 12” thickness or Pour in Place rubber surfacing under all elevated play areas. See below under surfacing for more answers to your surfacing questions.
- Has Miracle Playsystems built any playgrounds near me?
- Yes, most likely. We have worked locally with almost every school district, park department, landscape architect, community group and preschool to design and integrate fun and exciting playgrounds into the community. Call us at 800-879-7730 or email us at info@miracleplaygroup.com to get a list of some of the projects we've completed around you.
- Do you help churches build playgrounds?
- Yes. In fact, we have significant church discounts that we can offer our customers on new play equipment.
- Are there any insurance requirements for playground structures?
- No, however, all play equipment intended for public use must comply and adhere to the most up to date safety compliance requirements as established by ASTM, CPSC and IPEMA organizations.
- How can I address vandalism concerns?
- We find that the best vandalism deterrent is based on the design of your new play equipment. Playgrounds designed with good visibility through them (no rock wall, solid panels, tube slides, roofs) keep vandalism to a minimum. We design highly functional play environments that almost eliminate vandalism.
- Who should be involved in the project?
- It depends on what scale your project is on. If you're a city or school district, we recommend you contact at the start of your project to get a clear plan of action and to set budgets. We can take care of the rest from here. If you're a Landscape Architect, we recommend working closely with us through the design phase to ensure you have access to the most up to date equipment an CAD files. Lastly, if you're a community group, preschool or church group it's usually good to get a small group (2-3 people) designated as the “play equipment team” to work directly with us to meet your needs.
- How long does a playground take to build?
- Depending on the size of the equipment, it can take between 2 days and 2 weeks. It's really dependent on the conditions of the project.
- What kind of maintenance is required on the playgrounds?
- Our commercial children's playground equipment and recreation site furnishings are manufactured primarily out of recycled plastic that is safe, durable and virtually maintenance free.
- What is the life expectancy of our new playground?
- This varies greatly, but we typically see a well maintained playground last between 15-20 years under normal use – though safety regulations may mandate that updates are made prior to this.
- What ages do you make playgrounds for?
- Miracle Playsystems designs and manufactures commercial playground equipment for the following age groups: 2-5 and 5-12.
- What do we need to be aware of for Accessibility requirements to meet local codes (ADA)?
- We handle all ADA compliance matters through our design. We do not sell any product that doesn't meet the ADA laws.
- Who handles the Installation?
- We work with a network of certified installers that handle our installations in a fast and courteous manner. Our installers have been working with us for as much as 30 years in some cases. They know the business and make your job easier.
- Spray Park Equipment
- What is a Spray Park?
- A zero-depth children's play area where water is sprayed from upright structures or ground sprays and then drained before it can accumulate.
- Can a wading pool be converted to a spray park?
- Yes. Wading pools are often converted to spray parks as towns and cities look for more cost-effective options that do not require costly supervision and maintenance. Liability is virtually eliminated with a spray park because there is no standing water for a child to drown in.
- Can a spray park be placed in an aquatic facility?
- Yes. In aquatic facilities, spray parks are situated on the pool deck. Water toys can also be added into the pool's beach entry (if applicable) in 12” of standing water or less. Resorts, housing communities and public parks have adopted spray parks as family friendly options to compliment a wide range of activities.
- Who designs a Waterplay Spray Park?
- A licensed Landscape Architect, Architect or Engineer is required to design the park. We work directly with you each step of the process to ensure it is designed with functionality and play value in the park. With your cad files, we'll integrate the play features, piping plans, play product placement and specs for you to integrate directly into your plan set.
- What Design Tools are used?
- The design process can occur in a few ways. The most popular option would be for you to supply us with your plans in cad format and we'll integrate your vision. This is a turnkey option that saves you time and money. The other option is to go online to our site builder and you can design your own park and submit it to us for approval. Your submission will then be used to transform creative ideas and cool component options into tangible 3-D drawings and specific CAD layouts, including: mechanical layout, electrical and engineered footing assemblies. Design teams may also use our online design center to access specifications and AutoCad building blocks.
- What concept amenities are included in the design?
- Design considerations may include park access, availability of bathrooms and change rooms, drinking fountains, benches and litter receptacles and adequate shade structures. Comfortable seating for parents and caregivers may be as simple as surrounding the park with grassy knolls. We can help you plan all this out.
- What about Fencing?
- In an open park setting, a fence should only be used to separate the play space from any potential hazards. It is important to avoid restricting the flow between viewing parents and the children at play. In most regions where recycled water is in use or where there is more than 2“ of water accumulating, a fence is required as the area may be deemed a “pool“ or “wading pool“.
- Can we theme a Spray park?
- Yes. Themes are accomplished by using graphics that we create in house with our air brush artists. Local, cultural, historical or geographical influences can help establish a theme for the park. Enhance the play value of your spray components with custom graphics. This is a service we include FREE of charge in all our designs.
- What are the timelines for designing and ordering a new park?
- The timeline for design and construction of a spray park is between 2 to 12 months. Following color selection and deposit received, we can have components ready for your project in as little as 6-8 weeks upon approved plans.
- What are the Stages of designing and building a park?
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- Step 1 - Permits and bylaw requirements, components, theme and water supply choices are considered - client and designer responsibility.
- Step 2 - Final component selection submitted to our organization.
- Step 3 - Site drawings with services identified and grading plan submitted to our organization by local engineer or Landscape Architect.
- Step 4 - Proposed design drawn up by our organization, including a concept layout, conceptual pad layout, component placement with dimensions and a piping plan.
- Step 5 - Complete construction drawings and engineer-stamped spray park grading plan.
- Step 6 - If final design is approved by client and Landscape Architect, then 50% deposit is sent to our organization to start production. Colors and final graphics are also submitted at this time.
- Step 7 - We provide contractor with advanced shipping of anchor hardware.
- Step 8 - Contractor installs footing and prepares site for component installation.
- Step 9 - Mechanical workbook completed by our organization for water consumption and sequencing.
- Step 10 – Components are manufactured.
- Step 11 – Our organization receives outstanding balance and components are shipped via ground transport.
- Step 12 - Contractor receives components and installation begins.
- Step 13 - Grand opening
- What surfacing is recommended for a Spray park?
- The surface of a spray park is as important as the selection of toys. We recommend a nonporous surface to prevent mould or other biological organism build-up , and non-slip to prevent injury. To meet sanitary health standards in most jurisdictions, the surface must be impervious to water. To prevent injury with a hard surface, avoid elevated surfaces, climbable areas, trip points or overhead obstructions within the spray zone. Our ideal surfacing recommendation is a medium-brush concrete finish.
- Concrete. Broom finished concrete is the most widely used spray park surface. It is the least expensive option and is easy to clean. Coloring, stamping, or acid etching can enhance the theme of your park.
- Rubberized surfaces, although very popular, can provide a false sense of security, have much higher maintenance costs and are difficult to clean.
- How mush slope is required on the surface?
- Slope surfacing toward drainage areas of the park and accommodate possible over-spray due to wind. Preferred grades of spray parks are 2% to 5% with a 6.5% maximum in wet areas. Where walkways slope away from the spray park, be certain to provide adequate drainage in the adjacent soft landscape. A meandering drainage channel flowing through several play stations can increase the overall play value.
- What is an overspray zone?
- An overspray zone is typically 6' – 8' wide and it acts as a buffer between the wet-deck and the surrounding landscape. Predominant wind direction is a factor in planning the space required for an overspray zone.
- How do we accommodate water drainage?
- Water drainage is as important as water supply. Provide an overflow drainage system to limit water depth to 2“ or less if the main drain is blocked. Drainage inlets should be large enough to prevent dangerous suction or vortexes, and drain covers large enough to accommodate the volume of water escaping the park. We supply a standard area drain that is 12” square with a grate on top that can be removed to clean out. We suggest placing two drains into any spray park in case a child is to sit on one and block it.
- How do I get started?
- Call us today at 800-879-7730. We'll come out and survey and photograph the site. Determine the location and availability of water, electricity, and drainage. Identify the predominant wind direction, observe the use of adjacent areas, consider emergency access and ensure visibility for supervision. Determine if the park will be a controlled area or in an open park setting. We'll also determine your need for a recirculation system or a potable water supply at this time.
- How much space is required for our park?
- The average spray park is 2,500 sq ft, however, individual components can be installed on pads that are 300 sq ft up to 10,000 sq ft. The general rule of thumb is that spray parks will accommodate 1 child per 20 sq ft on average. This number is influenced by design.
- Who is a spray park intended for?
- A spray park is safe fun for everyone; because water is drained away before it can accumulate, thereby eliminating the risk of drowning. Spray parks cater to children of all abilities, aged 2 to 12 years… and beyond!
- When can a spray park be used?
- Depending on the park location, the operating season will vary. The advantage of a spray park is that the operating season usually extends beyond that of a typical outdoor pool. In California, we see parks operating anywhere between 8-10 months of the year.
- What type of water supply is needed?
- The amount of available water and the supply line size will influence park design. Ordinarily, for a spray park using municipal water service, 2“ supply line is sufficient and we've found this to be the standard.
- Do you offer treated water systems?
- Yes. Due to strict water conservation policies in the state of California, many areas are required to install a treated, re-circulating water system. In order to maintain proper sanitation and public safety standards, the area must be managed similar to any public swimming pool. We address these requirements based on your projects location and needs.
- How much water is consumed during operation of a spray park?
- Waterplay products are offered in low-flow and hi-flow options to accommodate your park design. Use our programmable touch screen controllers to get the most efficient use of every drop of water. A treated water system will utilize approximately 85-95% less water than a similar sized potable water system. We've even designed parks that do not re-circulate to only use 10 Gallons per Minute (GPM).
- What types of approvals and permits are needed?
- Our organization has a design specialist on staff that will provide full design drawings to the Landscape Architect and a Civil or Mechanical Engineer on the project. These plans can be submitted directly to the city or county you're working with. At a municipal level, your working group may include professionals from Finance, Public Works, and the local Health Department. A Civil Engineer should also be involved to approve the construction of the concrete footings and slab.
- How do I Select Water Toys?
- We will help you select components to compliment a theme or concept. Our spray parks stay within budget and delivers maximum play value for users of all ages and abilities.
- Is Age Appropriateness important in the design?
- Yes. It is important to design your park with age appropriate play areas in mind. Consider positioning water toys that cater to the robust play of older children (5-12 year olds) in one are, and components that cater to the more passive play of toddlers in another (2-5 year olds). Centrally located spray toys will accommodate all age groups and serve as a common play area. This rule is similar to the way playgrounds are designed.
- What level of Safety is built into the equipment?
- All components, fixtures and attachments are tamper resistant. Nozzles at ground level are flush mounted. All water pressures are regulated to avoid injuries. There are no tripping hazards to worry about.
- How do I Create Play Value?
- Choose a Medieval Castle with a colorful serpent, create a desert island with palm trees and whales or recreate an old time railway station with a railway crossing activator and a water tower. Think like a kid to choose a variety of components for hours of fun and imaginative play. Spray parks have proven themselves time and again to provide play experiences season after season.
- What kind of Colors and Graphics are available?
- We offer a spectrum of bright primary colors providing both environmental excitement and sensory stimulation. We can also custom mix a color to match your specific taste. We can customize components with friendly faces and other colorful graphics – FREE.
- What material is the equipment made of?
- All our product is made of stainless steel components. No fiberglass or aluminum is used as it shows to break down over time and does not offer the longevity of stainless steel.
- What Coatings are applied the play features?
- Our components are coated with weather resistant super durable series polyester powder in a baked on application creating a gloss finish.
- What are the spray Nozzles made of?
- Over time, dissimilar metals have a tendency to meld together, making it difficult to change or provide regular maintenance to nozzles. Our nozzles are made from a material called Delrin®, produced by DuPont. Delrin® bridges the gap between metals and ordinary plastics with a unique combination of strength, hardness, toughness, fatigue resistance, abrasion resistance, low wear and low friction. The end result is better performance and a long lasting product for your enjoyment. To replace them is very inexpensive compared to the alternatives of brass, stainless steel, etc.
- What is a Spray Park Controller?
- Control systems are the brains of any spray park. A controller and sensor(s) are required to control water conservation and provide interactive play value. A field adjustable program is electronically stored in the control system, managing which components are in operation, the amount of water sprayed from each component, and the overall operation time of the spray park. Because the sensor is triggered by a child's touch, when there are no kids, there is no wasted water. Waterplay controllers require AC voltage, which should be situated away from the play area.
- What kind of electrical supply is required for a spray park?
- We suggest 110 V electrical for a potable water system and 220V for a treated water system.
- What is an Activator?
- Activators put children in control of their fun, telling the water where to go and when. Each of our activators has a small switch incorporated into the appearance of the activator. When a child's hand, foot or body part touches the activator, a signal is electronically sent to the control system, bringing the park to life.
- What is a Treated Water System?
- Although a more expensive option, many parks are making use of re-circulating systems. We offer a great option that are factory tested and offer on-site start-up. Both systems use slow closing valves and are approved in the state of California where water usage requirements are amongst the most mandated in the country.
- Who installs the spray park?
- We provide detailed installation guidelines for our certified installers to do the work. This list of certified installers is provided for you at time of bidding. The installer is responsible for all required inspections, approvals and that the installation is done in accordance with applicable building codes. We recommend our components remain in their protective wrappings until installation is complete.
- How are the play features anchored?
- We offer below grade and above grade anchoring systems depending on your park design. If you plan for a permanent installation, consider the common below grade footing installation.
- What are the Mechanical & Electrical Requirements?
- The services of a certified plumber are required for trouble free installation of water supply lines and water distribution manifolds. A mechanical contractor is required for installation of the treated water system. A certified electrician is required to supply wiring from the activator to the controller as well as from the solenoid valves to the controller. However, all our systems arrive on site fully wired, and plumbed. The installers are required to hook electrical up to the controller and run all water supply lines to the individual components.
- What's involved with a Parks Completion?
- We provide a comprehensive project inspection and approval guide which allows the owner, project manager and installation contractors to follow the required steps necessary to ensure accurate completion of the new facility.
- What Operational Costs are associated with a spray park?
- Regular site visits to your spray park should include a visual inspection, litter collection, and spray pad cleaning. Treated water system parks will require regular water quality checks, as prescribed by your local health board – same as a pool - and similar to the maintenance of any other water facility. In addition park officials should periodically monitor water pressure to ensure it is kept at a safe discharge rate.
- What's involved with Caring for the Components?
- We recommend that you apply a good coat of paste wax to all spray park equipment. Throughout the year it is recommended that our components are buffed and polished on a regular basis to maintain the quality and durability of the coatings. Inspect the nozzle outlets on a regular basis to ensure that fittings are secure and all orifices are free of debris or chewing gum, etc
- What is involved with Winterization?
- For the winter months when the park will not be in use, we recommend all detachable graphic elements are removed and stored to prevent damage to the components. Supply lines, piping and manifolds should be drained and all ground spray nozzles should be replaced with nozzle blanks after lines have been blown out and are free of water. Proper winter shut down will assure a quick and trouble free opening day the next spring.
- What's involved with a Start-up?
- We provide guidelines to ensure a smooth start up. These guidelines include removal of winter blanks, components are flushed with fresh water to prevent nozzle clogging. Nozzles shall be in installed and secured as per manufacturer's instructions.
- What level of Customer Support should we expect?
- We provide on-going toll free phone support, electronically available manuals, installation guides, trouble shooting guides, and product manuals to provide quick responses to questions, technical issues and maintenance requirements. Our educated sales staff is also available anytime at 800-879-7730.
- What Chemicals are required for treated water systems?
- Chlorine and Muriatic Acid are the two chemicals you will need for optimal water quality. Chlorine provides disinfection of the water and comes in many forms. Most commonly used is Sodium Hypochlorite: liquid form, short shelf life, low free chlorine concentration. Calcium Hypochlorite: solid form: easy to handle, long shelf life, high free chlorine concentration, can eventually clog chemical pump lines. Muriatic Acid is used to control pH. Your park will require approximately 1/3 gallon per day. Water must often meet local quality and safety standards for swimming pools, something we'll determine for you before completing designs.
- Wood Surfacing
- How do I calculate how much engineered wood fiber I will need for my play area?
- To calculate the amount of engineered wood fiber you'll need for your location, you'll need to calculate the length x width of the area in question. This measurement will get you the total square footage of the play area. You then need to divide the sq/ft by 20.25 to get the yardage required for your project. Example: you have a rectangular play area that is 20' wide and 40' long = 800 sq/ft. Divide 800 by 20.25 = 39 yards. Your project will require 39 yards of engineered wood fiber at a depth of 12”.
- How do I spread the engineered wood surfacing?
- Install the engineered wood fiber to the proper depth, mounding in the high traffic areas of the playground to allow for compacting. A Bobcat or a small front-end loader may be used to spread surfacing, however it will also be necessary to spread manually with 2-3 people with wheelbarrows. Install all the material delivered and note that the surfacing will be several inches above grade until it compacts. It needs to be compacted in order to be accessible to all. For a smooth finished surface, hand rake. After two weeks of active use, surface should be raked again.
- How often should we top off our engineered wood fiber?
- To maintain engineered wood fiber at the recommended (8“ or) 12“ depth you will need to top-off the area every year or so.
To figure how much is needed to top-off your play area:- Measure the total square feet of the playground.
- Note measurement from the bottom of an upright footing to the top of the wood surface.
- Call us at 800-879-7730 and we'll to calculate how many yards you will need. A quote will be given to you that includes delivery to your playground site.
- How much engineered wood fiber can fit on a delivery truck?
- We can fit 100 yards of engineered wood fiber on a delivery truck. To get the most value for your money, we suggest ordering larger quantities of wood fiber – 100 yards per order – even if you don't need the entire amount all at once. The cost to ship small orders, 10-20 yards, makes it very expensive in small quantities and we suggest looking to your local garden supply store.
- How can engineered wood fiber be nonflammable if it isn't chemically treated?
- Beneath the surface layer of engineered wood fiber there is no room for oxygen to fuel a fire.
- Can wood fiber be installed over a hard surface?
- Yes, as long as it adheres to the requirements of ASTM F2075, F1292, F1951, which if installed properly engineered wood fiber does.
- Why do we need to have at least 8-12 inches of engineered wood fiber in our playground?
- The depth of engineered wood fiber needs to be at the recommended 8 or 12 inch depth for a 8 or 12 foot fall height, to be compliant with the ASTM 1292-04 Standard.
- Why is a top off necessary?
- Without the recommended depth, engineered wood fiber may not have enough cushion to prevent injuries. CPSC recommends 8'-12” depth to help prevent injuries.
- Is drainage necessary?
- Depending on your area, it is very important to make sure there is a way to drain excess moisture away from the play area, but should be reviewed on a case by case basis with your salesman.
- Why should I use engineered wood fiber for my playground?
- Engineered-Wood-Fiber is the best choice for budget and accessibility.
- How can I purchase engineered wood fiber?
- Engineered wood fiber may be purchased through your local representative, Miracle Playsystems. Please call 800-879-7730.
- How is engineered wood fiber delivered?
- Engineered wood fiber is shipped on a walking floor semi-trailer that can be up to 70 feet long. A full load is about 100 cubic yards.
- Why is it important to have virgin wood?
- Virgin wood means the children using your playground are playing on wood fiber that has never been used for anything else. Our engineered wood fiber does not use ground pallets or construction waste which can contain harmful metal remnants or chemicals.
- Rubber Safety Surfacing: (Pour in Place rubber)
- What is Pour in Place Rubber surfacing (PIP)?
- PIP is rubberized safety surfacing, which is applied to indoor and outdoor play areas and under play equipment to protect children from injuries from falls. The two part process includes a rubber top wear course and a base course that consists of 100% recycled rubber shred that acts as the fall protection.
- What does PIP consist of?
- PIP is small rubber granules mixed on site with a specially formulated resin, poured in place and troweled to accommodate the surface substrate.
- Who uses PIP Rubber Safety Surfacing?
- PIP is used on any surfacing that needs a permanent, non-slip, resilient surface. PIP creates a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing surface for any play area.
- How is PIP Rubber Safety Surfacing installed?
- Certified, trained installers apply our PIP. There are usually two installers and one mixer on site depending on the size of the installation. The rubber granules arrive in bags and the resin in buckets. It is then mixed and troweled on site to the specifications of the client and to the requirements of the fall height as depicted by the safety requirements.
- How soon can kids play on it?
- PIP surfacing is usable after a 24 hour drying period in most conditions.
- Is the PIP rubber surfacing slippery when wet?
- PIP is non-slip even when wet, just the same as the theory behind the rubber bath mat.
- What colors does it come in?
- PIP has almost every color option available for your convenience; however, custom mixes are also available. We find most customers like a mixture of color: ½ black and ½ color are the most common options because it keep the heat down while still looking good.
- What kind of surfacing does PIP need to go over?
- PIP can be installed on most solid substrates such as concrete, asphalt, and compacted base rock. If installed over compacted base rock, there must be a concrete mow-curb that surrounds the perimeter of the protective area created by the play equipment in order for the PIP surfacing to adhere to during times when it expands and contracts (in the heat or in the cold).
- Can PIP be used for indoor and outdoor applications?
- PIP rubber safety surfacing is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
- How will cold winter conditions or hot summer conditions affect rubber safety surfacing?
- PIP systems have been proven to cope with the harshest environment including the scorching deserts of California and the harsh winters of the Rockies.
- Does PIP get hot in the heat?
- It is cooler than concrete and asphalt in the heat of summer because the pores trap moisture and create airflow that helps retain its low surface temperature. Because of the nature of rubber it does not absorb heat or cold like cement or rock products do. Tot age children should wear pants when playing on the PIP in the summer to keep their skin from getting too close to the PIP.
- Will PIP delaminate in the freeze/thaw cycle?
- PIP rubber safety surfacing systems have been designed and thoroughly tested to remain stable in all weather conditions.
- Will the color fade?
- PIP rubber safety surfacing is UV stable and is highly used in the harshest conditions. However, over time, the most vibrant colors (red, purple, green, etc) do fade. We recommend using more stable colors which don't show the fade as much such as tan.
- Is PIP tested?
- PIP has undergone many tests over the years including UV stability, critical fall heights, stain resistance and fungus & bacteria growth. Each test has passed. All PIP rubber surfacing materials have ISO certification.
- What happens to the water that drains through?
- The water filters through to the sub-base and whatever direction it is sloped, the water will drain that way. It is not retained in the PIP.
- How do I clean PIP Rubber Safety Surfaces?
- PIP safety surfaces require regular cleaning as all surfaces do. Pressure washing is the most commonly used procedure for cleaning rubber surfaces. Sometimes mild soap and water sprayed with the garden hose is all that is necessary. For stubborn stains a pressure washer works. We typically recommend cleaning each year.
- What happens if the rubber safety surface needs repair?
- Because PIP is a rubber-based material, cutting out the damaged area and re-pouring the safety rubber and resin mixture will make repairs to your surface easy, un-noticeable and aesthetically pleasing. A certified rubber safety surface installer usually performs this function. Or if you'd rather, we can supply you with the materials to do the work. Repairs are not as noticeable with PIP and the new material will eventually blend in with the original surface.
- What is the warranty period?
- We offer a sliding scale 10 year warranty on all materials.
- Fabric Shade Structures:
- Why are fabric structures good alternatives to canvas, wood or metal shelters?
- The fabrics we utilize are porous which allow air to pass through keeping the air cooler under the structure. Solid fabrics and fixed materials such as steel trap the heat and are not as cool to sit under. Metal and wood structures need painting and staining to keep them in good shape, shade does not.
- Are the fabrics waterproof and fireproof?
- No, but close. The most popular fabric offered is a high density polyethylene that provides 60-70% water run-off. Our fabrics do meet the fire and flame retardant laws as required by most public jobs we work on. “Class A” fire-rated fabrics are available.
- If I need to, can I remove or replace the fabric tops easily and quickly?
- Yes. There is little involved in doing so. All our structures have a 90 MPH wind load, but should they need to come down due to higher wind gusts or vandalism, the fabric is loosened at its steel cable tensioning system and the corner pockets are released off the steel frame. Using a wrench, one person can do this very easily.
- How long with the shade fabrics last?
- The fabric is knitted in two directions for strength and the panels are sewn together using Teflon coated thread which gives the fabric its strength. Our fabrics carry as 10-year limited warranty and a typical life expectancy runs between 10-12 years.
- Do the shade structures need to be cleaned?
- Yes. Our shade fabric requires very little maintenance, but should be kept clean of debris to ensure the structure looks bright and attractive all year long. To clean our tops, use a power washer or hose with detergent (diluted). Spray from the underside working down the structure to fully clean the shade top.
- How are the shade structures anchored?
- Due to building code requirements, all shade structures are permanently anchored in concrete footers. There are varying sizes of the concrete footers depending on your local wind load requirements and building codes.
- Do I need a building permit to install a shade structure?
- Each location is different. Depending on your local codes and county requirements you may. All our structures are engineered to meet and exceed almost all requirements. Sealed drawings and calcs are also available. We can help you with all this.
- Can Miracle Playsystems help me with design through installation?
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Yes. We are a vertically integrated company with our own in house design team and access to a network of certified installers. We can handle the entire project for you from start to finish.
Can you conform to the California DSA requirements – do you have DSA approved products?
Yes, we have a number of pre-approved DSA structures to choose from. Call us today at 800-879-7730 to learn more about how we can help.
- Steel Shelter Structures:
- What are your shelters made of?
- Our shelters consist of strong, clear-span steel, wood, or galvanized steel finished in either powder coat or wood stains.
- What applications are your shelters used for?
- Our shelters can provide weather protection, aesthetic appeal, or containment solutions for virtually any type of location anywhere in California. Our shelters are currently used in parks, golf courses, city centers, preschools, schools, etc.
- Are your shelters permanent or temporary structures?
- Our shelters are extremely durable and all are permanent. Most of the shelters we delivered 20 years ago are still in use.
- What sizes are available?
- Shelters can be sized and shaped to meet your specific requirements. They can range in size from 12 feet to 150 feet wide, up to 100 feet high and up to any length and design.
- Are your shelters weatherproof?
- Yes, they are made of steel or wood and will protect you from the elements. They can withstand wind and snow loads for almost any conditions and can be as safely used in the desert of the snow.
- Can shelters have ventilation, air-conditioning and heat?
- Yes, we've fitted our shelters with drop down sides that include lighting, heat, etc. If enclosed, they can have ventilation, filtration, air-conditioning and heat. This one be done as a peripheral project and outside our scope of work.
- Can shelters be wired for electricity?
- Yes, our shelters are completely customizable including electrical requirements.
- Are your shelters dark inside?
- No, they let in natural light, giving a pleasant, sunny-day feeling. Additional lighting can also be installed. We can help you select lighting that will be most effective for your particular application.
- Do shelters need foundations?
- In most cases, yes, foundations are needed. This will be determined by local soil quality and you should consult an engineer.
- Can you help me design a custom shelter?
- Yes. Our design team can make recommendations based on your application and available space. We can work from photos, blueprints, measurements, etc. If necessary, we will come to your location and do a comprehensive site survey.
- How long does it take to build a shelter?
- Most shelters can be built in less than two weeks, though our smallest shelters can be finished in a day. Large, complex structures may take a little longer.
- Can I install a shelter myself?
- Yes, we'll give you complete instructions. Installation does require skilled labor and special tools. We recommend using our network of trained installers.
- Are the shelters flammable?
- No, they are made out of steel or treated wood.
- Do the shelters comply with building codes?
- Yes, they comply with building codes and are structurally sound even in harsh weather environments.
- Do the shelters require any maintenance?
- Steel shelters do not, but wood shelters do. They are virtually maintenance free. Cleaning of the roof and vertical supports can be done with pressure washers much like the walls of a conventional building.
- How are shelters priced?
- Because every shelter is a custom design, prices vary accordingly. We quote every shelter individually, taking into consideration its size, shape, accessories and other features. Please contact us at 800-879-7730 to get better ideas on pricing.
- What kind of warranty comes with a shelter?
- We guarantee all of our shelters for a limited 10 year on steel and wood shelters. However, even after one year, we are always available to provide any recommendations or do any repair work necessary throughout the life of the shelter.