From Recycled Rubber to Better Recreational Spaces
Every year, millions of pounds of rubber waste have the potential to become something far more valuable than landfill material. Through innovative recycling processes, that material can be transformed into high-performance surfacing used in playgrounds, athletic facilities, equestrian arenas, and landscape applications.
For nearly 60 years, Sparton Enterprises has helped lead this transformation by converting industrial rubber scrap into premium recycled rubber materials. As a member of The Surfacing Group, Sparton combines sustainability with technical expertise to produce high-quality rubber granules that support safer, longer-lasting recreational environments.
By giving industrial by-products a second life, Sparton helps manufacturers reduce waste while supplying the materials that help create vibrant places to play, compete, and gather.
Understanding Recycled Rubber Materials: EPDM vs. SBR
Not all recycled rubber performs the same. Choosing the right material depends on the demands of your project.
Sparton offers both EPDM and SBR rubber granules in multiple sizes, allowing installers and designers to select the best option for performance, durability, and appearance.
| Material | Common Applications | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| EPDM Rubber Granules | Poured-in-place playground surfacing, running track wear layers, decorative safety surfacing | Vibrant colors, UV stability, long-term durability |
| SBR Rubber Granules & Buffings | Shock pad layers, synthetic turf infill, equestrian footing, rubber mulch | Excellent impact absorption, cost-effective, versatile |
Both materials play an important role in recreational surfacing systems, often working together to maximize performance.
Creating Safer Playground Surfaces
Playground safety starts from the ground up.
Colored EPDM rubber granules are commonly used in poured-in-place (PIP) safety surfacing, creating a seamless surface designed to help absorb impacts while allowing for endless design possibilities.
Benefits of EPDM Playground Surfacing
Long-Lasting Color
EPDM rubber is engineered to resist UV exposure and weathering, helping colors remain vibrant even after years of outdoor use.
Custom Design Flexibility
Available in multiple colors and granule sizes, EPDM allows designers to create logos, games, graphics, and custom patterns that make playgrounds more engaging.
Consistent Installation
Materials are available in both 55-pound bags and 1,000-pound bulk bags, making it easy to support projects of virtually any size.
Building Better Athletic Surfaces
Modern athletic surfaces rely on multiple layers working together—not just one material.
A typical running track or athletic system combines the cushioning properties of SBR rubber with the durability and weather resistance of EPDM to create surfaces that perform under constant use.
A Layered Performance System
- SBR granules provide a resilient, shock-absorbing foundation.
- EPDM wear layers add traction, color, UV resistance, and long-term durability.
- Specialized spray systems help create a uniform, high-performance finish.
Together, these materials produce athletic surfaces designed for consistent performance, energy return, and durability.
Supporting Healthier Equestrian Footing
Arena footing plays an important role in both horse performance and rider comfort.
By blending recycled rubber mulch with sand-based footing systems, equestrian facilities can create more stable riding surfaces that offer improved cushioning and reduced compaction.
Benefits include:
- Increased footing stability
- Improved cushioning for joints
- Reduced dust and airborne particles
- Better riding consistency throughout the arena
These advantages help create healthier environments for both horses and riders, particularly in indoor facilities.
Giving Industrial Rubber a Second Life
Sustainability begins long before a playground or running track is installed.
Sparton's Scrap Rubber Recycling Program helps manufacturers divert industrial rubber waste from landfills by converting production scrap into premium crumb rubber for new recreational applications.
Accepted Materials
- EPDM rubber
- SBR rubber
- Natural rubber compounds
To maintain product quality and consistency, the program does not accept used tires.
This closed-loop approach supports a circular economy by transforming manufacturing by-products into materials used in playgrounds, sports fields, tracks, and other recreational environments.
Why Choose Sparton Enterprises?
For nearly six decades, Sparton has earned a reputation for producing reliable, high-quality recycled rubber products backed by responsive customer support and technical expertise.
As part of The Surfacing Group, the company continues to invest in sustainable manufacturing while helping customers create durable, high-performance recreational surfaces.
Field professionals consistently recognize the quality of Sparton products.
"Sparton is a top-notch organization with excellent customer service. I find their products to be the highest quality in the industry and would recommend them to anyone."
— Brett Chesshir, Field Operations Manager, Precision Sports
Start Your Next Project
Whether you're designing a colorful playground, constructing a high-performance athletic surface, improving equestrian footing, or looking for a sustainable recycling partner, Sparton has the products and expertise to help.
Explore custom color combinations with Sparton’s interactive Color Mixer Tool, or contact the team for technical guidance, pricing, or information about the Scrap Rubber Recycling Program.
Sparton Enterprises
📍 861 Norton Ave.
Barberton, OH 44203
📞 (877) 772-7866
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