The reference guide does specifically mention that playgrounds are one of the non-roof areas that should receive shading, though after the one line where playgrounds are mentioned in parentheses, they don't show up again in the credit language.
I am wondering for my project if the rubber playground surfacing we use, which does have some porosity (though less than 50%) to it and is not a traditional paving material like concrete or asphalt, has to meet the same solar reflectance requirements of other paved surface areas. If anyone has experience please share.
Summer Minchew
Managing PartnerEcoimpact Consulting
LEEDuser Expert
170 thumbs up
September 20, 2016 - 12:12 pm
Steven: Refer to LEEDUser FAQ for Schools v2009 SSc7.1 Heat Island Effect Non-Roof, "What is Hardscape?" For your reference here it is: "According to the LEED Reference Guide, "Hardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stone walls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios." While this clearly demonstrates that gravel roads and paved tennis courts are hardscape, it leaves some gray area. LEEDuser is not aware of specific guidance relating to marginal surfaces like wood, turf, or pea-gravel, but when in doubt, we recommend considering any 'inanimate" surface hardscape, which would include all of those. This should be seen as an opportunity to meet the credit intent by using high-SRI materials." Sounds like your playground surface meets the definition of hardscape and should be included in the calculations.