If you are thinking about creating and maintaining a playground, read on to find out more…

How do you make an awesome playground?

Once you know you want to build a playground, and where you want to build it, there are several elements that should be taken into account. Not all children are alike and will like the same things, and not all areas are set out in the same way. However, if you consider these steps you should be well on your way to creating an awesome playground for any child to enjoy.

1 – Consider different types of play

A big push has been made in the last few years to understand the different ways that children learn and play. Some kids are all about visuals, others sound, and others like to create or imagine instead. Your playground should try and incorporate as many options as possible, to entertain the most children. Here are some of the main ways to play and how you might represent them:

• Active play – space and equipment for running, jumping, spinning and climbing.
• Imaginative play – playhouses, ships, kitchens where you can play a role.
• Manipulative play – sandboxes, blocks, water systems for pouring, sifting, stacking etc.
• Creative play – musical instruments/ items that make noises, places you can draw and paint.
• Sensory play – things you can touch, smell, hear, and that you can explore for yourself.
• Reflective play – places where you can relax, be quiet, and reflect like a quiet bench in a garden.

2 – Think about the elements you enjoyed the most

While not all playgrounds have to have the customary swings and slides, there is a reason they tend to remain in most areas. Kids love them, and they are good for various ages and games. One tip is to avoid overdesigning the space. If you have a perfect idea of what your playground should look like, and how it should be played with, you aren’t looking through the eyes of a child.

Remember that children don’t always play the way we expect them to, so try and avoid too many specifics. Yes, the slide may be a slide to you, but to a kid, it could be a snake or a rainbow instead. Stick with bold colours and leave the specifics to their imaginations.

3 – Remember where you are

It is wonderful to have a theme for your playground, but often you will want it to fit in with or reflect your local area. Using a boat or undersea theme for a playground by water, for example, would absolutely class as awesome.

Ideally, you should aim to fit your playground in with the spirit and style of the community. If you go for a playhouse, base it on the way houses are built where you are. If you have a shop, go for a local brand, and so on.

4 – Go with the flow – but don’t forget a few surprises!

Playgrounds should have a natural flow, going from the swings to the slide, from the monkey bars to the see-saw. There should be spaces to run, to enjoy the trees and plants, to have an adventure. When you are setting up your space, think about how this flows and how to make sure it is natural and makes sense.

That being said, kids will always do something unexpected, and they like the unexpected too! Throw in some different textures, some handles to turn or buttons to press. A hidden mural or different perspective can make the children feel like they are in on a secret, and they are sure to love it even more.

5 – Don’t forget the basics!

As well as the so-called basics of what you would expect to play on in a playground such as the playing equipment itself, remember all the important components that perhaps aren’t so glamorous. These include:

• Shade – kids (and adults) need plenty of shade in their playground to shelter from the sun.
• Toilets – always a good idea!
• Water – a drinking fountain or similar can really make your playground feel more welcoming and thoughtful than one without.
• Bins – people are going to make a mess, and having bins encourages cleanliness.
• Soft flooring/ protective coverings – there are many types of cheap flooring, but a good playground will have some sort of protective flooring. This could be bark, sand, rubber tiles or Astro-turf.
• Adult seating – it’s tough enough being a parent without the occasional rest, so make sure you put in a few benches for them as well.

How do you maintain a playground?

Now that you have your playground, it is essential to maintain it correctly. You need to:

• Keep it clean
• Watch for hazards
• Refresh or check the ground material
• Check that safety rules are up and visible
• Check all equipment and so on.

As you can see, this is hugely important and not easy or really possible to do by yourself. The best option is to hire an experienced playground maintenance and renovations company. They will make sure that your playground is as safe and maintained as it can be at all times.

What are the most common hazards in playgrounds?

Some hazards in a playground are hard to prevent. It is likely that at some point, a couple of children charging around will bump into each other, for example. The key is to prevent what you can and minimize the damage from what you cannot. Some of the major common hazards in a playground are:

• Broken or damaged equipment
• Uneven walkways
• Lack of protection underfoot
• Sharp or pointed surfaces
• Insects nests or hives
• Rusted or worn-away parts

Final thoughts

With so much to think about even after you have designed and created your ideal playground, it is understandable why so many people look to the experts to help out. By hiring a competent and reliable maintenance company to check over and repair your playground, you are doing all you can to keep your playground safe and hazard free, the way it needs to be.

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Things to do in Port Douglas

Visit the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and can be explored by snorkelling or scuba diving. You’ll have the opportunity to experience a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles and even whales!
A visit to Port Douglas wouldn’t be complete without visiting this natural wonderland.

Go on a Rainforest Tour

The Daintree Rainforest is the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest in Australia. It’s also home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, including over 1,500 species of birds and some 400 species of plants. To get a closer look at these impressive numbers and see what makes this place so special, take a guided tour through the forest with one of Port Douglas’ many local operators. You’ll learn about its lush vegetation, diverse wildlife and breathtaking views on your way through this natural wonderland!

Take a Cruise

• Cruise along the coast of Port Douglas and explore the nearby islands, reefs and beaches.
• Take a day trip to Magnetic Island, located just off Port Douglas’ doorstep.

Explore the Town

If you’re looking for things to do in Port Douglas, Queensland, there is no better way to get acquainted with the town than by exploring it on foot. The town itself is small enough that walking around will take no more than an hour or two, but there are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way that make it worth your while.

If you’re looking for a place to start, head over to The Esplanade where you’ll find many shops selling souvenirs and gifts as well as restaurants serving up local favourites like fresh seafood and tropical fruit smoothies (a must-try!). From here, continue down towards Four Mile Beach where there are even more places for shopping or dining–or just relaxing on one of their colourful beach chairs!

Visit the Wildlife Park

• Visit the Wildlife Habitat and get up close and personal with some of Australia’s native animals.
• Learn about Australia’s unique wildlife by watching a show at the Crocodile Adventures Amphitheatre, where you can see crocodiles jump out of the water and feed them from your seat!
• See koalas in their natural habitat at Koala Gardens, where you can also learn about other Australian animals such as kangaroos and dingoes (wild dogs).

Relax at the Beach

• Take in the stunning views
• Relax on the sand
• Enjoy a swim or snorkel

Take a Hike

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time, then hiking is an excellent choice. There are many trails in Port Douglas that will show you some of the most beautiful landscapes Australia has to offer. One such trail is called “The Valley of Lagoons,” which takes hikers through rainforests and along waterfalls before ending at a beachfront location where they can swim or snorkel. This hike will take about two hours and is rated as a moderate difficulty by TripAdvisor reviewers:

Go Fishing

If you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, fishing is the perfect activity. You can head out on a boat or take advantage of one of the many private piers in Port Douglas. There are plenty of fish to catch off the coast, including barramundi, mackerel and trevally.

Enjoy the Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife, Port Douglas has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a quiet drink with friends or want to dance the night away, there are plenty of options available.
There are many bars and clubs in Port Douglas that cater to all tastes. You can enjoy live music at places like The Backyard Bar and Grill or get your groove on at Club Tropicana. If you’re looking for something more intimate, try out one of the many restaurants that offer live jazz performances throughout dinner service!

Take a Day Trip

If you have the time, it’s worth taking a day trip to nearby towns such as Cairns, Mossman and Cape Tribulation. You’ll be able to experience some unique experiences that are not available in Port Douglas itself.

If you’re flying into Cairns Airport, getting to Port Douglas is a breeze. Here are a few options for transportation:

Getting Around

Shuttle Bus

One of the most convenient ways to get from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas is by taking a shuttle bus. These shuttle buses run regularly and can take you directly to your accommodation in Port Douglas. The journey takes about an hour and prices vary depending on the company and your destination. 

Car Rental

If you prefer to have your own vehicle to explore the region, renting a car is a great option. Several car rental companies operate at Cairns Airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty. The drive to Port Douglas from Cairns Airport takes around an hour and is relatively straightforward, with the main highway being well-signposted.

Private Transfer

If you’re looking for a more comfortable and personalized option, you can book a private transfer from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas. Several companies offer this service. These companies provide a range of vehicles from luxury sedans to minibuses and can accommodate individuals or groups of any size.

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What type of paint is used in commercial buildings?

The exact right kind of paint for your commercial building will depend largely on where exactly you will be painting. There are many varieties for you to choose from, and each is tailored towards different conditions and has its own pros and cons. Whether you are looking to conceal flaws in the wall underneath, wish for the most durable option, or are simply looking for a low-cost lick of paint, there is the right choice for you here.

Flat Paint

Flat paint is an ideal lower-cost option, easy to apply and great for covering up any small imperfections in the wall at the same time. Very much a concealer paint, if you have any stains or blemishes that other paints would not help to hide, flat paint will get the job done. It is also easy to touch up and apply another coat in the future.

The downside to flat paint is that it is not as easy to clean as the other options available, and is weak in the areas of moisture resistance and durability. If you are in a busy environment where the level of wear is key, flat paint may not be the best choice for you.

Satin Paint

Another good option for your commercial building is satin paint. This comes with a subtle shine that brings an extra level of light and brightness to your building. It is also easier to clean and lasts longer than flat paint in high-traffic areas. With a mid-sheen finish and its level of durability, satin paint is an excellent choice for many areas in your commercial building.

However, this kind of paint does require more preparation than flat paint. You must make sure that your walls are sanded down, and clean of any grease, dirt, or chips that will show up under any coats that you apply. It is also usually more expensive than flat paint, though the improved look and prolonged likely use can make this a worthwhile expenditure.

Gloss and Semi-Gloss Paint

A wonderful choice for its final look, high level of durability and easiness to clean, gloss and even semi-gloss paints are one of the favourite types of paint for many buildings. The quality of the paint means that you won’t have to repaint as often and the sheen will brighten any room.

This kind of paint again requires a great deal of preparation. It is also essential that it is applied correctly. A bad paint job with gloss is harder to correct, while a professional job done by a company like Platinum 3 Commercial Painting in Brisbane will leave your building looking fantastic. In this case, the extra initial expense is well worth it in the long run.

Another potential issue is that when you paint a commercial building you must consider how long it will take to paint and to dry before you can open again for business. Choosing a latex paint in gloss or semi-gloss will give you the same excellent finish while drying in a shorter time, so make sure to check the kind of gloss you want before buying.

How often should you paint a commercial building?

The general industry standard for painting commercial buildings is once every 3-5 years, though there are many factors that can impact this time frame. Regular painting is essential to protect the outside of the property as well as the inside, to keep it looking fresh and clean and to help prevent structural damage. Overexposure to sunlight may cause your paint to fade and shorten the timeline until your next coat is required, while little-used or less-lit buildings may have longer gaps between repainting.

While your building may not require painting that often for structural and protection reasons, you may also choose to repaint more often for aesthetics. A coat of paint can revitalise a property, inspire your team to work harder and make it more welcoming for possible clients. There are many benefits to repainting your building, though roughly every 3-5 years should be sufficient.

What is the best colour for commercial buildings?

The best colour for your commercial building will depend entirely on what it is you are trying to achieve. There are no shortage of colours for you to choose from, indeed today you can find everything under the sun and create your own shades fairly easily. If you have a personal preference there should be no trouble in finding the right colour for you.

Different colours can often mean different outcomes or provoke different feelings in customers and staff. Green is supposed to be a very relaxing colour, lighter colours will promote the feeling of space and airiness, and blue and orange are said to help your staff feel motivated and increase efficiency.

For a timeless and professional yet approachable look, most commercial buildings lean towards a neutral colour palate, but the choice is up to you.

Conclusion

To Sum Up:

• There are many different types of paint and finishes available depending on the kind of building you have, how durable it needs to be, and how much you wish to spend.
• Gloss or semi-gloss paints are often the best, tending to be long-lasting and easy to clean.
• You should repaint your commercial building every 3-5 years depending on how faded or worn it is looking as well as personal preference.
• The choice of colour is up to you, but neutral colours are a safe option.

Painting your commercial building can have a huge impact on your property. You may wish to join the myriad of other businesses that do it right and have it professionally painted. You will see how much better it looks immediately, notice that it won’t need touching up and time soon, and see that it was the right choice for you.

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