Shade Structures

At Hardy Group, we understand the importance of creating safe, comfortable, and durable play environments. Shade structures are a key element in protecting children, extending equipment life, and enhancing overall usability of outdoor play spaces. Whether you're planning a new playground or upgrading an existing one, we offer a range of shade solutions tailored to suit your needs and comply with industry best practices.

Why Shade Structures Are Essential for Playgrounds

1

UV Protection

Australia experiences some of the highest UV radiation levels globally. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer. Implementing shade structures significantly reduces UV exposure, safeguarding children's health during playtime.

2

Enhanced Comfort and Usability

Shaded play areas remain cooler, making them more inviting, especially during peak sun hours. This encourages longer play periods and ensures equipment surfaces are safe to touch.

3

Equipment Preservation

UV rays can degrade materials, leading to faded colors and weakened structures. Shade structures help in prolonging the life of playground equipment by minimizing direct sun exposure.

4

Compliance with Safety Standards

While not mandatory, adhering to Australian Standards like AS 4685.0:2017 and AS 4685.1:2021 is considered best practice. These standards provide guidelines for the development, installation, and maintenance of playground equipment and surfacing.