Steel v Timber: what is best for a school playground?

When planning a new school playground, one of the first big decisions is what materials to use. Most modern playgrounds are built with either steel, timber, or a blend of both.

Everything Outside provides all three finishes and each option has its own strengths — so choosing the right one depends on what will work best for your students and the school environment.

Let’s break it down for you.

• ✅ Blends beautifully with natural surroundings

• 🌱 Environmentally friendly when sustainably sourced

• 🛠️ Ideal for unique, custom designs

BUT timber does need regular maintenance to manage weathering, especially in harsh climates.

Steel

It is built to last. It’s a durable, low-maintenance option that suits busy school environments.

• 💪 Strong and long-lasting

• 🧼 Minimal upkeep

• 🏫 Clean, modern look

BUT you need to consider heat or temperature management in sunny areas and it has a less “natural” aesthetic finish compared to timber.

A blend of both

Many schools are choosing a combination of steel and timber — using steel for strength and structure, and timber for warmth and character.

This hybrid approach can offer the best of both worlds, managing some of the ongoing maintenance load whilst providing the tactile benefits of timber features.

The right playground material often depends on your climate, budget, and learning goals.

Whether you go for steel, timber, or both — the goal is ultimately the same and that is to create a safe, engaging, and inspiring place for students to play and learn.