BERG Playbase Clearance

When planning to install a BERG Playbase climbing frame in your garden, one of the most important safety and usability considerations is clearance space. Whether you’re creating a dynamic play zone for kids or a versatile fitness station for the whole family, allowing the right amount of room around your Playbase ensures optimal use, safety, and peace of mind.

How Much Clearance Do You Need Around a BERG Playbase Climbing Frame?

In this post, we’ll walk you through the recommended clearance requirements for the BERG jungle gym, why it matters, how to measure your space properly, and a few tips for setting up your Playbase safely and effectively.

Why Clearance Matters for Climbing Frames

The clearance zone—the open space surrounding your climbing frame—is essential for several key reasons:

✅ Safety: Minimises the risk of injury from falls, swinging equipment, or collisions with nearby obstacles.
✅ Functionality: Ensures full use of the accessories like swings, ladders, and gym rings without restriction.
✅ Maintenance: Allows space for inspection, cleaning, or adjusting attachments over time.
✅ Longevity: Protects your equipment from nearby plants, fences, or walls that could cause wear or damage.

Even the sturdiest climbing frame, like the BERG Playbase, needs adequate space around it to deliver on its promise of safe, versatile outdoor fun.

Recommended Clearance for the BERG Playbase

BERG recommends a minimum clearance of 2 metres (6.5 feet) on all sides of the Playbase frame.

This clearance applies whether you’re installing the:

Playbase Medium (285 cm long)
Playbase Large (380 cm long)
Regular Height or Low Height version

✅ Minimum Space Requirements (Including Clearance)

Playbase Size	Frame Dimensions (L x W)	Total Area Needed (Including 2m Clearance)
Medium	285 x 100 cm	685 x 500 cm (6.85m x 5.0m)
Large	380 x 100 cm	780 x 500 cm (7.8m x 5.0m)

These dimensions ensure that users can safely use swings, ropes, ladders, or fitness equipment without hitting nearby trees, fences, walls, or structures.

Vertical Clearance: Don’t Forget the Height!

While horizontal clearance is essential, don’t overlook vertical clearance, especially for swings and climbing activities.

Recommended Vertical Clearance:

At least 2.5 to 3 metres (8–10 feet) of unobstructed overhead space.
Avoid installing under low-hanging branches, power lines, or roof eaves.
Choose the Low Frame version if you’re working with height limitations.

Clearance for Specific Attachments

Each accessory comes with its own space considerations. Here's a quick guide:

Swings (Wooden Seat, Nest Swing)

Requires clear swing arc of at least 2 metres front and back.
Avoid placing near fences, patios, or windows.

Climbing Net & Wall

Needs side clearance for safe mounting and dismounting.
Keep the area free of hard objects or tripping hazards.

Rope Ladder & Gym Rings

Ensure sufficient vertical drop and room to swing/move without obstruction.
Place soft material like grass or rubber mulch below.

Fitness Attachments (Pull-Up Bar, Dip Bars, Boxing Bag)

Allow space for user movement around the frame (e.g., arm extensions during workouts).
Maintain a stable, level ground surface for adult users.

How to Measure Your Space Before Buying

Measure the flat, level area where you plan to install the Playbase.
Add 2 metres clearance to each side of the intended frame dimensions.
Check for vertical obstacles like branches, gutters, or overhead cables.
Mark out the total area using garden chalk, string, or stakes.
Observe how traffic flows around the area—avoid placing the Playbase where children could run into it unexpectedly.

What Kind of Ground Surface is Best?

To make the most of your Playbase and ensure safety, it’s best installed on:

✅ Grass
✅ Soft bark or wood chip
✅ Rubber safety matting
❌ Avoid concrete, gravel, or uneven ground

BERG provides an anchoring system that secures the frame into soft ground. If you’re unsure about installation, Trampolines Ireland offers professional setup services to ensure perfect placement and safety.

Tips for Maximising Garden Space Around Your Playbase

Use multi-function accessories: Convert a swing bay into a TRX workout area for adults when not in play use.
Plan the layout: Keep clear zones between play equipment, garden furniture, or sheds.
Add soft borders: Create visual boundaries with bark chips, borders, or edging.
Think vertically: Use hanging accessories to save horizontal space.

Final Thoughts

The BERG Playbase is a brilliant investment in your family's outdoor activity and fitness, but to get the most out of it, allowing the proper clearance is essential. Whether you’re buying for children, teens, or adults—or all three—giving your Playbase the space it needs means safer play, smoother workouts, and a more enjoyable garden environment.

Key Takeaways:

Leave at least 2 metres of clearance on all sides.
Maintain 2.5–3 metres of vertical clearance.
Choose soft, level ground for installation.
Plan your garden layout to optimise space and safety.

Ready to Transform Your Garden?

At Trampolines Ireland, we’re proud to stock the full range of BERG Playbase climbing frames, along with expert advice and optional professional installation.

🔎 Browse our BERG Playbase collection:
👉 www.trampolinesireland.com

📞 Need help planning your setup? Call us at 01 960 1641.

Let us help you create a safe, stylish, and active outdoor space for your family!