Playground Materials & Durability: Frequently Asked Questions
What commercial playgrounds are made of, how long they last, and which surfacing options BDI Play Designs offers.
Commercial playgrounds live outside, all year, for decades. The materials they're built from are what make that possible. Here are the questions we hear most about what our equipment is made of and how long it lasts.
What are your playgrounds made of?
Commercial play structures use in-line galvanized steel posts with triple-layer corrosion protection, 19 mm (3/4") UV-stabilized HDPE plastic panels, and a solvent-free polyester powder-coat finish rated for roughly three times the life of comparable coatings. Slides are often stainless steel.
How long does a commercial playground last?
Built to commercial standards and properly maintained, these structures are designed to last for decades — which is why warranties run as long as the lifetime of the steel posts and hardware. Material choice, surfacing, and routine maintenance all affect lifespan.
Why stainless-steel slides?
Stainless-steel slides are vandal-resistant, low-maintenance, static-free (safe for children with cochlear implants), and 100% recyclable, and they carry a 20-year warranty. Some Canadian municipalities now require them on all playgrounds.
What surfacing options do you offer?
We supply and install protective surfacing such as poured-in-place rubber and other CSA-compliant systems. The right surfacing depends on fall heights, accessibility needs, and budget — we can recommend options for your site.
Will the equipment hold up to Canadian winters?
Yes. Materials are chosen for Canadian climates — galvanized and powder-coated steel for corrosion resistance, UV-stabilized plastics, and finishes built to handle freeze-thaw cycles and sun exposure.
Want the full material specs for a product? Each product page lists its specifications, or contact us for details.