Ground Surfaces

Installation Guide

This guide explains how to install Loose Rubber (Play Bark & Natural Chippings) and DIY Resin-Bound Rubber Kits. It’s written for beginners – everything is explained step by step. Standard installation depth is 50 mm.

Loose Rubber (Play Bark & Natural Chippings)
Coverage rule: 1 × 20 kg bag ≈ 1 m² at 50 mm depth. Use strong edging to keep the rubber neatly in place.

Loose Rubber is quick to install, low-maintenance, and provides a safe, permeable surface for play areas, paths, and borders.

1. Mark & excavate
Mark out your area with string or spray paint. Remove turf/soil to allow for: 75–100 mm compacted sub-base plus the 50 mm rubber layer.
2. Install edging
Fit edging (timber, sleepers, steel or composite). Secure firmly so it won’t move under pressure. This defines your finished surface height.
3. Lay & compact sub-base
Add MOT Type 1 stone (75–100 mm). Compact thoroughly with a plate compactor or hand tamper until firm and level. Tip: A thin 10–20 mm sharp sand blinding helps achieve a smooth finish.
4. Spread rubber to 50 mm
Pour bags evenly and rake level to 50 mm depth. Lightly walk or roll over the surface to settle it. Top up low spots as needed for an even finish.
Optional Weed Membrane: At 50 mm, the rubber itself acts as a weed suppressant. A membrane is optional. If used, place it above the compacted sub-base and below the rubber, overlapping joints by 150 mm and pinning securely.
DIY Resin-Bound Rubber Kits
Standard coverage: 25 kg rubber ≈ 1 m² at 50 mm. Binder required: ~20% of rubber weight (e.g., 25 kg rubber → 5 kg binder).

Resin-bound rubber creates a seamless, slip-resistant surface for paths, play areas, and patios. It takes more preparation than loose rubber, but is achievable as a DIY project with the right tools.

Before you start

  • Base: Best on concrete or asphalt. A compacted MOT Type 3 base can work if stable and level.
  • Surface condition: Base must be clean, dry, and dust-free. Remove moss/oil and ensure drainage away from buildings.
  • Primer: Some binders require PU primer on concrete/asphalt. Check your kit instructions.
  • Weather: Install in dry conditions (10–25 °C). Avoid rain or frost during curing.
1. Stage materials & set levels
Open bags in advance, set depth guides (50 mm), and mask edges. Keep binder at room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Mix materials
Use a forced-action mixer. Add rubber granules first, then pour in PU binder (~20% of rubber weight). Mix 2–3 minutes until coated. Do not use a cement mixer – it won’t mix evenly.
3. Lay & level
Tip the mix onto your base. Spread to 50 mm thickness using a steel float. Work in small batches so the mix doesn’t start curing before you finish.
4. Finish & cure
Smooth the surface lightly – don’t overwork it. Allow 6–12 hours before foot traffic, and 24–72 hours for full cure. Protect from rain during curing with sheeting if needed.
Common mistakes: laying in damp conditions, unstable or uneven bases, mixing in a cement mixer, or over-trowelling (can pull binder to the surface). Always clean tools immediately with appropriate solvent.
Tools & Safety
  • PPE: gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves, and knee pads. Avoid skin contact with PU binders.
  • Loose rubber: shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, plate compactor or hand tamper, edging stakes, and (optional) membrane & pins.
  • Resin-bound: forced-action mixer, steel floats, buckets, primer (if required), masking tape, and solvent wipes for tools.
Always check the weather forecast. Delay resin work if rain or frost is expected within 24 hours. Loose products can be laid in light showers, but ensure the base isn’t waterlogged.