Wood vs. Rubber Mulch? Which is Better?

 

Wood and rubber mulches are both great choices under the right circumstances. Rubber is popular for established ornamental gardens in stormy, cold to moderate climates because it’s heavier than wood and less likely to be blown or washed away. Wood mulch is better for edible gardens, as it doesn’t release dangerous compounds and metals, and is safer in hot climates, as it’s a lower fire risk than rubber. Use this guide to wood versus rubber mulch to find out which one is best for your yard.

 

 Whats the Difference between Woo and Rubber Mulch?

Wood mulch is naturally occurring and, if sustainably sourced and untreated, is environmentally friendly. It also breaks down into fibers and nutrients to replenish the soil. Rubber mulch, on the other hand, has a longer lifespan and does not break down easily. It’s also heavier, so it resists weather and enthusiastic watering.

Rubber Mulch

Made from 100% recycled auto and truck tires ground to pieces sized between 3/8″ to 3/4″, Rymar Rubber Mulch is 99.99% metal-free thanks to our high-powered magnets and extremely sensitive metal detectors. Our unmatched polyurethane coating chemically bonds with the rubber to provide years and years of lasting color and beauty.

Wood Mulch

Wood mulch is recycled wood matter, often bark, waste wood off-cuts, old pallets, branches, and similar materials, cut into fine chips. The color and consistency differs depending on the species of wood used, the fineness of the cut, and the contents of the mulch. As wood is organic, it breaks down over time and nourishes and bulks out the soil. It’s equally popular as a safety surface for play areas and for garden beds and paths.

 

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which Is Better?

Both rubber and wood mulch have many qualities that make them popular. Let’s take a look and find out which garden mulch is best for your home.

Appearance

Most natural looking: Wood mulch

These two popular mulches are tied pretty closely when it comes to appearance.

Rubber mulch:

• Looks like wood chips
• High-end products don’t fade with age
• Available in bright and pastel colors

Wood mulch:

• Natural, organic appearance
• Doesn’t fade
• Limited natural color options

Cost

Lowest cost: Wood mulch

Whether you have a few square feet to mulch or hundreds of cubic yards, cost is likely a leading factor in your decision-making process.

Factors that influence mulch cost:

• Surface area requiring mulch
• Depth of mulch
• Guaranteed wire-free rubber mulch costs more
• Organic, untreated wood mulch costs more
• Wood species
• Rubber quality

 

Installation

Easiest to install: Wood mulch

Wood mulch and rubber mulch are both suitable for DIY installation if you have the skills, knowledge and tools. However, it’s labor-intensive and may not be practical in large areas.

Maintenance

Easiest to maintain: Rubber mulch

Ideally, garden mulch requires minimal maintenance and infrequent replenishment. But rubber and wood mulches have different needs when it comes to ongoing care and attention.

Rubber mulch:

• Heavy, so it does not blow around. Therefore you won’t have to keep sweeping it back in place
• Does not need special care for mold or (most) fungi
• Does not need treatment for insect infestations (apart from Asian cockroaches)

Wood mulch:

• Lighter than rubber, so moves more easily, requiring you to sweep it back into place
• Can harbor mold, fungi, and insects, so it requires regular inspection and, if necessary, treatment
• Degrades faster than rubber, so it needs replenishing more often

 

Which Is Best?

To help you decide which type of mulch is best for your property, you have to establish where and for what purpose you want to use it. Talking to a experience sales associate at Chamberlain Timber Mart is a great start if you have more questions or need more information.

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which is Best for Edible Gardens?

Natural wood mulch is definitely the best option if you plan to grow fruits and veggies. Wood is safe and contains no VOCs, unlike rubber which can release gases that are dangerous to inhale. Plus, the chemicals and heavy metals that leach into the soil work their way into your plants, making them potentially unsafe to eat.

Wood also provides extra nutrients as it breaks down, along with fibrous organic matter that helps build healthy, well-structured soil to help maximize the health and production of your edible plants. Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which is Best for Play Areas?

We Suggest All Treat Farms Premium Pine Bark Mulch as it is untreated and is a great natural mulch choice. 

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which is Best for Play Areas?

Rubber and wood mulch are tied on this one. Rubber is less messy and has a longer lifespan. Wood may not last as long and need regular replenishment, but it does not release any VOCs.

Both surfaces provide a softer, safer playing surface and offer some cushioning against falls and trips. Be aware that for safety, if you choose rubber, you need a guaranteed wire-free rubber mulch. This type of mulch will cost you more but ensures nobody gets stuck with or cut by painful, thin metal wires common in standard rubber mulch.

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which is Best for Areas of Elevated Fire Risk?

Wood mulch is best in areas of moderate to high fire risk. Wood mulch requires higher temperatures to ignite, and it burns at a lower temperature than rubber and spreads slower. Wood has a lower carbon to nitrogen ratio than rubber and also holds moisture.

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which Is Best to Keep Ants and Termites at Bay?

Rubber is better for keeping ants and termites away. Wood is a natural attractant for these pests, but rubber isn’t. However, do note that rubber mulch is the favorite place for female and nymph Asian cockroaches to hang out.