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Built to Resist: How Corkeen Surfaces Withstand Daily Use and Abrasion

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Playgrounds are meant to be used. Thousands of footsteps, running, jumping, wheeling and sliding across the same paths day after day. This constant activity tests the real-world durability of any safety surface.

At Corkeen, we design for this reality. Our system isn’t just built to absorb impact; it’s built to resist abrasion, endure wear in high-traffic zones, and maintain performance with minimal maintenance over the years.

  • What does abrasion resistance really mean?

    All safety surfaces are subject to continuous mechanical stress. Swings, spinners, access points, and circulation paths create high-friction zones where surface wear is naturally more pronounced. Over time, lower-quality surfacing systems may deteriorate, leading to cracking, material loss, or reduced protective performance.

     

    Corkeen has been tested in accordance with BS 7188 for abrasion and slip resistance. Under both controlled laboratory conditions and in real-world installations, the system has demonstrated consistent resistance to surface wear and degradation.

     

    In simple terms, Corkeen holds up, even in areas exposed to the most demanding usage conditions.
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Real use. Real results.

During field audits across different projects and climates, we specifically examined abrasion-prone areas: under swings, near ramps, entrances, and turning zones for mobility aids. What we found was consistent:

What does this mean for maintenance?

Abrasive wear is inevitable for any surface over time and is directly influenced by usage intensity. With Corkeen, however, the rate of wear is typically slow and localized, making upkeep simple and cost-efficient under normal operating conditions.

Maintenance requirements vary significantly depending on installation conditions, usage intensity, and site-specific factors. While the projects assessed in this study generally showed limited need for surface repairs within the first five years, earlier interventions cannot be excluded in cases of improper installation, misuse, or exceptionally high traffic, particularly in large public playgrounds.

For operators and municipalities, this translates into a surface that, when properly specified, installed, and used as intended, can support predictable maintenance planning without the need for frequent or extensive interventions.

Key takeaways from the installations assessed:

Cork Strength Stays.

From the first child to run across the playground to the hundredth visit, Corkeen delivers lasting durability without compromise. Because real sustainability isn’t just about natural materials. It’s about long-term performance where it matters most.

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