Playgrounds have long been cherished spaces where families gather and children develop essential life skills, form friendships, and engage in physical activity. When it comes to choosing playground equipment, choosing those made in America has many benefits that extend beyond just supporting local economies. Let's explore the advantages of investing in domestically produced play equipment.
Meet or Exceed Safety Standards
In an effort to provide safer, quality play products for children, domestically-made play equipment is typically required to meet or exceed the standards set forth by organizations like IPEMA, ASTM, and CPSC. Additionally, American manufacturers typically follow strict in-house standards and guidelines. Combined, this ensures that American-made play equipment meets stringent criteria for durability, structural integrity, and child safety to provide peace of mind for parents and caregivers.
American-made playgrounds will typically be designed by in-house staff who are Certified Playground Safety Inspectors (CPSI), meaning they have gone through the necessary training to ensure the play equipment is designed to meet or exceed all safety standards.
Superior Quality & Craftsmanship
When it comes to quality, overseas manufacturers may not adhere to the same quality standards as those in the United States. As a domestic manufacturer, we only use quality materials to ensure our playgrounds meet strict quality guidelines. For example, we use galvanized steel for all posts and tubing for maximum strength and durability.
Reputable domestic manufacturers will adhere to certain manufacturing techniques for consistency in safety and quality. We hold the following certifications, which demonstrate our commitment to quality processes.
- ISO 9001: This means we have implemented a quality management system that allows us to provide consistent quality, no matter the product being made.
- PCI 4000: This means our powder coating manufacturing techniques have passed an extensive audit program, including an evaluation of our procedures, quality control, and more.
This results in durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance play equipment.
Positive Local Economic Impact
Choosing an American-made playground contributes to the growth of local economies. It helps sustain jobs, fosters innovation, and bolsters the overall economic health of communities.
Our playgrounds are handcrafted in our half-million square foot facility in Fort Payne, Ala. by our hard-working team of 400+ employees. Additionally, our nationwide sales representatives and certified installers live, work, and play in your communities. Choosing an American-made playground is a wise choice that resonates beyond the playground, positively affecting the livelihoods of those involved in the manufacturing and selling process.
Environmental Responsibility
As a domestic manufacturer, we prioritize sustainability practices, such as using eco-friendly materials and implementing energy-efficient manufacturing processes. For example, our playground manufacturing facility is ISO 14001 certified, meaning we’ve met the international standard for environmental management, demonstrating a commitment to reducing our environmental impact and improving sustainability practices. This not only reduces carbon emissions, but it also ensures the techniques we use in manufacturing products are done so with sustainability in mind.
Playgrounds manufactured in the U.S. also allow for faster delivery times and reduced shipping costs compared to importing from overseas. This efficiency benefits buyers and suppliers as well as the environment.
Customization and Design Options
Domestic manufacturers with a team of in-house designers are able to create custom playgrounds that reflect your community's identity and values. You’ll be able to customize colors, add personalization options, and more. With some overseas manufacturers, they may only provide pre-made options to choose from. Ours are made custom for every customer.
After Purchase Service
Once your playground is installed, our support doesn’t stop there. Your local sales rep will be a reliable resource for future maintenance, repairs, or replacement parts to ensure your playground is properly maintained for years to come. They'll also be able to help source additional play equipment, shade, and site furnishings to complete your space with one company. This allows for a streamlined process that can save you time and money compared to using multiple different overseas companies.
Investing in playgrounds made in America offers a myriad of benefits ranging from superior quality and durability to supporting local economies. By prioritizing domestically manufactured play equipment, you can help create outdoor play environments that foster community and enrich lives.
