Lately, there has been a lot of discussion about skatepark warranties. We would be remiss to not address this new trend in the Industry. Pillar Design Studios did some research on the different warranties offered for concrete facilities. Whether it is a poured-in-place or a pre cast park, we understand the time, effort and money that goes into a Skatepark facility and the importance of a quality end product. If you are being offered a warranty, make sure you are informed of all the details covered in that warranty.
The definition of warranty is a guarantee, a written assurance that some product or service will be provided or will meet certain specifications. That leaves much to interperation; here are a few things to consider when looking at any warranty;
- Items not covered
- What is considered normal wear and tear
- What does the replacement include, installation/labor, removal, shipping (if necessary)
Up until recently the industry standard on a concrete facility has been; one (1) to two (2) year unconditional warranty from defects in workmanship and material quality, not caused by normal wear and tear. Guaranteeing all approved materials to be new and free from defect. This is what we would consider a short-term all encompassing warranty, offering removal and replacement (ie labor, materials), leaving the client with a skate-able quality facility.
Lately, with the introduction of Pre-Cast parks, we have seen a new type of warranty that is fifteen (15) to twenty (20) years. Typically, offering a five (5) year warranty, then a ten (10) to (15) year limited warranty. This would be a long-term warranty with numerous limitations.
After doing some research and speaking to clients, we have made a few surprising discoveries regarding these so called long term warranties (15 to 20 years).
#1 – Only the piece in question is covered, meaning the client is responsible for freight, installation, removal and all flat work need to seamlessly replace the defective product.
#2 – The warranty does not include environmental and or site condition issues, such as concrete settling.
#3 – A monthly maintenance check list is required in order for the warranty to stay valid.
We are perplexed as to how a company can warrant a piece of the Skatepark leaving the park un-usable and the necessary construction needed to fix the park at the owner’s expense. Shipping large pieces of concrete can be an exuberant amount of money. But even more astonishing is that the removal and disposal of the defective piece is also not covered, meaning a specialty company will need to be hired to remove and dispose of the defective piece(s). Finally, the owner must hire someone to then seamlessly fit the new piece to the existing Skatepark.
In regards to site conditions and environment, if a park settles and or shifts, it is possible the necessary reviews and precautions were not taken during the design phase, ie a Geo-Technical Report. This is yet just another example of why it is IMPARTIVE to have a qualified, licensed designer handle the design. If a Geo has been completed and the soil was conducive to concrete construction, then settling would be a sign of insufficient compaction. Either way, should the owner be responsible for the hired companies neglect to proper procedures and protocols?
As a design firm, we want to offer our clients the best, most feasible option for them and their community. Anyone doing their due diligence would be interested in hearing about a long-term warranty but we feel it is our duty to inform our clients and possible clients of the limitations of these types of warranties.
Concrete facilities designed and constructed properly will stand the test of time, normal wear and tear will occur but minimal maintenance is needed to keep your Skatepark in great condition. Quarterly reviews of caulk and sealant, riding surfaces for divots and chips (larger than ¼), coping and rails as well as the removal of debris and dirt (when necessary) is what consist with normal maintenance a concrete facility.
Whatever type of park fits your community best, we urge you to not be mystified by the long-term warranties. Make sure you have a qualified, licensed professional that stands behind the design and an experience specialty construction company that can attest their quality and longevity; then the need for the warranty becomes a bonus instead of a safety net.
For more information on Skatepark facilities and how we can help your community, please contact me at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com.
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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]
