For apartment communities, a playground is more than just an amenity, it is a signal to families that their children are welcome and cared for.
By Phil Carder
But beyond the apartment playground swings and slides, the real question every property manager should ask is: Is the playground truly safe?
While play equipment may look sturdy, the surface beneath it is often the most critical and most overlooked factor in preventing injuries. If you’re not confident that your playground surfacing meets today’s safety standards, now is the time to act.
The Season for Outdoor Play Has Arrived
As spring turns to summer, apartment playgrounds come alive with activity. Children rush outside after school, families gather on weekends, and the play area becomes a central hub of community life. This increased traffic means more running, jumping, and the inevitable falls that come with active play. Ensuring your playground surface is ready for this seasonal surge is essential—not only for the well-being of your youngest residents but also for your peace of mind.
Safe Surfacing Makes All the Difference
Most playground injuries happen because of falls, but many of these injuries can be significantly reduced with the right surface in place. That’s why so many apartment complexes turn to FiberPC from Aardvark Bark Blowing. Engineered from 100% virgin cedar, FiberPC offers a natural yet highly effective cushion that absorbs impact and helps protect children from serious harm. It compacts easily to form a stable, reliable surface that holds up over time and stays in place even with daily use.
Compliance You Can Count On
FiberPC isn’t just safe, it’s officially recognized for its performance. It meets the safety standards set by the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association, and it conforms to multiple ASTM specifications for impact attenuation and engineered wood fiber quality. It is also ADA compliant, which means your playground will be accessible to children and caregivers who use wheelchairs or mobility aids. Independent lab testing by confirms that FiberPC performs as promised under real-world conditions, making it a trusted choice for safety-conscious property owners.
The Hidden Risks of Non-Compliance
Overlooking safety standards doesn’t just put children at risk—it exposes your property to legal and financial consequences. An injury resulting from substandard surfacing can quickly turn into a liability issue, leading to costly claims and a damaged reputation. Staying compliant isn’t just the right thing to do for families, it’s a smart move for your business.
FiberPC Is the Smart, Safe Solution
With FiberPC from Aardvark Bark Blowing, apartment communities can install a playground surface that’s not only safe and accessible but also cost-effective and low maintenance. You’ll be showing your residents, especially families, that their well-being is your priority, all while enhancing the appeal and long-term value of your property.
Now is the perfect time to ensure your playground is ready for the busy seasons ahead. When safety matters, FiberPC is the surface you can trust.
About the author:
Phil Carder is a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) with a strong commitment to creating safe, engaging environments for children. As a seasoned real estate developer and investor, he brings over a decade of experience in multifamily apartment housing and property management. Phil is the founder and owner of a successful blower truck service that specializes in manufacturing and installing engineered wood fiber surfacing, prioritizing safety, accessibility, and long-term value. His expertise uniquely bridges the gap between safety standards and real-world application, making him a trusted voice in playground safety and residential development.
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