If you’re searching for affordable playground edging ideas, look no further. Having a cheap playground border is an excellent way to create a designated play area for kids to have fun. Unfortunately, many playground construction options can cost a lot of money and be prohibitive for most families. Additionally, people often overlook the importance of ground cover and play area borders.
Playground borders are crucial for creating a safe and defined play area. They establish a clear boundary for kids to play within and help contain ground cover and other safety elements.
We have compiled a list of 8 amazing DIY playground border ideas that are perfect for your existing playgrounds or for setting up new ones in your home or community.
#1. “Frame it All” Playground Border
A super cost-effective method that was initially developed by landscape designers. It is made from a blend of recycled plastic and sustainably grown wood. Not only does it designate the area for your playground, because it also protects any kids from dealing with poisonous chemicals or splinters. It is easy to install, using a snap & lock system, meaning you can set it up anywhere as well as take it apart and move it to another location if you are interested at a later date.
How to Install a “Frame it All” Playground Border
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Composite Timbers, Anchor Joints, Stacking Joints, hammer, tape measure, screwdriver.
STEP 1: PREPARE THE AREA.
Locate an open area, remove obstructions, and ensure there is enough space with a minimum of 6’ perimeter around the playground.
STEP 2: STAKE OUT THE BORDER.
Use stakes and string to mark out the border with a minimum of 6’ perimeter. Determine the number of Composite Timbers and Anchor Joints needed to surround the perimeter.
STEP 3: ASSEMBLE THE TIMBERS AND BRACKETS.
Attach the Composite Timbers to the brackets using screws until all Timbers are fully bracketed on both ends.
STEP 4: LAY THE FRAME.
Lay out the base level design and hammer stakes into the ground. If desired, add additional levels by sliding a second stake into the exposed tops of the in-ground level 1 stakes and put level 2 Composite Timbers in place.
STEP 5: FINISH THE APPEARANCE AND SECURE THE BRACKETS.
Push or tap the supplied caps into the tops of the stakes to secure the brackets over the stake.
STEP 6: ADD THE GROUND COVER.
Fill the playground area with the desired ground cover, such as engineered wood fiber or rubber mulch.
#1.Rubber Playground Barrier
Another great border idea for you to consider would be rubber timbers. Not only is this a great option from a cost perspective, but the rubber material is also highly variable and ec0-friendly.
In addition, due to the material having drainage ports, you never have to worry about your play area flooding.
#2. Plastic Playground Bordering
Most characteristically seen at schools and daycare centers, you can also set up this plastic border around your own playground. They act as a safer and more efficient alternative to wooden borders and are incredibly easy to set up.
#3. Recycled Tire Playground Border
Certainly, a more cost-effective option for you to put together. The Tire Playground Border essentially sets up and puts together several recycled tires and turns that into the border.
The fact that you can get this for virtually nothing is also a huge selling point. You can go to your local tire shop and get the punctured tires or on Craiglist to get started.
#4. Wood Logs for a Raised Play Area
Certainly one of the more visually enjoyable options on this list, by using these wooden logs, you can erect your own play area. The one drawback is that small children may potentially find entering or exiting the border difficult. Still, of them all, this is the one most likely to get praise from your neighbors.
#6. Timber Wood Border Landscape
It seems planter boxes, walls, and beds aren’t the only uses offered by timber wood lumber. Turns out they can also be used to create a playground border. This option is great, as it makes the playground look amazing, doesn’t cost as much as other borders, and can be stacked on top of one another so that certain creatures don’t spoil the fun with their presence.
There are two options for this brand of wood border. Either through actual, natural wood or recycled plastic. The natural timbers, while real, costs more than the synthetic plastic options and must be treated every few years to keep from falling apart.
#7. Faux Stone Border
While sharing the same appearance as actual stones, this border is really made from recycled plastic. This is a great option for many, as it grants an increased level of charm to a playground while at a very inexpensive rate. Not only that, but you’re being eco-friendly too.
#8. Concrete Enclosement Pathway
Finally, there is the option of paving an encasement-style walkway around the playground. You generally see them more often in parks and communal spaces. This is due to both the aesthetics as well as the reasonable rates it costs to do it. If you want, you can actually set this border up in your backyard. Just make sure your floor or backyard aesthetic makes it worthwhile.
