According to experts, depending on the setup you intend to build, the actual cost of installing a commercial splash pad is between $65,000 and $500,000. There are other cheaper options but note that you may end up building and installing the splash pad kit yourself.
There is also an initial cost when filling the tank and depending on what water filtration system you pick, will affect the amount of water that is used.
Note that all splash pads come equipped with a non-slip material so that you don’t have to worry about accidents while your clients are enjoying this new addition. Splash pads also come with multiple fixtures such as streams and sprays that shoot water in various directions which can be activated by people running or timed to go off every so often.
Also have it in mind that these facilities are constructed with the whole family in mind, so they have something for kids of all ages and abilities. For instance, younger children can run around on playgrounds or enjoy different features such as a squirting gun, while older kids may be more interested in scaling through an obstacle course or enjoying water fountains to cool off during those hot summer days.
Water safety is very serious and important for toddlers, and that is why splash pads with separate areas are a good option for your commercial setup. This way they can have their own safe space and kids of all ages can enjoy the water without you bothering about smaller children. Splash pads that recycle water will also help save on your bill while still being environmentally conscious.
Also note that steady cleaning and checking will have to be done every year in order to keep the splash pad in good condition. The increase you will notice on your electricity bill will be somewhere between 5% and 10%, depending on how complex the actual setup is.
There are also a number of add-ons that can be inculcated, but they will more or less increase your price. These include UV-resistant surfaces, waterfalls, and pools. However, to build a perfect splash pad, it will be crucial to have your permits at hand.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Building a Commercial Splash Pad
Splash pads are ideal for all ages and they tend to require less maintenance than swimming pools. Note that they just need regular maintenance, like winterization in October and start-up around April in some regions. When installing a commercial splash pad, there are several factors you need to consider during the design process that will heavily affect your splash pad estimate and total cost.
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The Site
Have it in mind that flat areas are very perfect for your splash pad installation. Indeed, flat spaces require less groundwork and landscaping, and it is also cost-effective to work on. But if your choice of location features slopes, you may have to consider some extra landscaping to make available a space for your below-ground pool.
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The Design
Also, note that the shape and size of your splash pad is a very vital determinant of the general cost of splash pad installation. The bigger and more customized a design is, the more materials and space it will need to enable installation. Upgrading your splash pad from one size to another may warrant an extra cost of at least $2,600
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The Cleaning System
Also, have it in mind that the type of cleaning system you choose will influence the overall splash pad installation and maintenance costs. Note that a good number of common systems like an eyeball and skimmer may have lower initial costs, but they may be costly to maintain in the long run.
In addition, their effectiveness may be limited. Therefore, investing in an advanced cleaning system will save you time and money and ensure that your pad and hose are kept water algae-free and clean.
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The Contractor
Indeed, building a splash pad can be very challenging if you don’t have a comprehensive plan or the right knowledge. Note that a professional contractor will take time to listen to your needs and recommend the best available options depending on your budget.
Planning and Installing a properly engineered splash pad will save you time and money in long-term maintenance, operational costs and allow for flexibility when expanding or upgrading your aquatic play solution.
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The Ground Conditions
It is very necessary to understand the type and the structure of the soil in your site to avoid incurring extra cost and expenses when building your splash pad. Note that fine soils make the installation process easy. In contrast, soft soils, floodplains, and underneath rocks always need additional work in the ground preparation, which translates to higher costs.
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The Extra Features
There are different features to choose from for your splash pad water. However, even if you have hundreds of choices for a water feature, they will all fall within three basic categories. However, for water park planners, developers and builders, understanding the differences between the three can help in planning, costing, design and construction.
Additionally, there are also functional features like heat pumps and lighting that can make your pad more enjoyable. However these come at an extra cost, so if you are on a tight budget, you can omit what you can’t afford.
Conclusion
The cost of building or installing a splash pad will vary depending on the factors mentioned above. However, it is imperative you perform a full analysis of your site to ensure that the intended design complies with local building codes and best construction practices.
Also consider seeking the expertise of an aquatic project engineer to manage the scheduling, pre-planning, resource forecasting, and other technical activities required for your splash pad. In addition, you can put your project engineer in charge of handling all communications with your aquatic designers, landscape architects, and splash pad installers.