You’ve finally brought your trampoline home, and having now set it up (or building up the energy to set it up), you want to know how to make it last longer.
Having been the proud owner of a trampoline, let me share what I have learned about trampolines and keeping them looking good and bouncing well for longer.
The two most important focus areas to keep your trampoline lasting longer are:
1. Assemble the trampoline correctly so there is no undue strain on any part of the frame. Once assembled, be sure to keep it rust-free.
2. Keep the trampoline mat clean and protected as much as possible. The mat is the most perishable part of the trampoline and must be looked after.
Let’s go through these and other focus areas in more detail so you can keep your trampoline lasting as long as possible.
Great Tips To Help Make Your Trampoline Last Longer:
Want to make your trampoline last longer? Here are some great tried-and-tested tips to help you out:
1. Proper assembly
Be sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when putting together your trampoline. Loose bolts or nuts will put undue stress on the frame and make it likely to bend or crumple. Don’t forget to tighten bolts and nuts regularly to secure the frame and springs. Click here to see how long it takes to put a trampoline together.
2. Regular maintenance of the frame and springs
Trampolines with metal frames can rust, and trampolines with carbon fiber poles can splinter. For metal frames and springs, wipe them down and grease them when you notice them squeaking. Once you see some surface rust, take care of it before it gets too deep. You’ll need a steel brush and a good amount of patience. For full details, check out the article “How to get rid of rust on my trampoline.”
If you have a spring-free trampoline, you’ll still need to look after the rods that give it its bounce. These are made of carbon fiber and are prone to splintering after repeated exposure to the UV rays in sunlight. Look for any signs that the vinyl sheath coating is cracking or the rods splintering. These rods will need to be replaced right away. Here’s a complete article on how to maintain your springfree trampoline.
3. Regular maintenance of the mat
The trampoline mat is susceptible to rips, tears, and general deterioration. To help it last for longer, keep the mat clean, don’t let too much snow settle on it, and don’t let kids jump with their shoes on.
To keep it clean, you’ll want to prevent algae, mold, mildew, and other forms of decay. You can use a soapy mixture and a high-pressure hose to eliminate any algae or mold. Just be sure to wash off all the soap before the kids jump on it again in their socks!
You’ll also want to keep snow off it. Snow weighs an incredible amount and can cause the springs to stretch and the mat to sag. If you’re in a climate where you get a great deal of snow, you should pack the trampoline away for the winter. However, if you get only light sprinklings of snow, try to brush it off regularly. Use a broom rather than a metal shovel. You don’t want the shovel to rip holes in the mat.
If your trampoline mat does get a hole, you can repair the rip or tear if it is small enough. Or you can buy a replacement mat from Amazon, which is an excellent option if the frame is still in good condition. Take note of the size of your trampoline’s frame, so you get one that fits.
4. Proper Storage
When not in use, if you have the room, store your trampoline in a dry place that’s protected from the elements. This will prevent rust, decay, and other forms of damage. This is useful in winter but also in hurricane season. Read here to discover how to best prepare your trampoline for a storm or hurricane.
5. Use a cover
If you don’t have a spare barn, you can get a trampoline cover from Amazon. This can be a great addition to your trampoline maintenance kit. It is easier to put on a cover when you don’t have a safety net; however, you can still do it even with a net. A cover can be useful to keep off debris like leaves and twigs, bird poop, or even raccoons or squirrels scratching at the mat with their claws.
Over time, a trampoline cover can also help keep the sun’s UV rays off the mat. The UV will break down the protective carbon on the polypropylene mat (ever see your kids’ feet turn black on the bottom?! It tramps all through the house!). Once this happens, the mat’s fibers will slowly break down, and you’ll need to replace the mat soon.
Make sure to choose a high-quality cover that is designed to fit your trampoline and that is made from a durable, weather-resistant material.
6. Proper usage
Overloading your trampoline or having more people on it than it’s designed for can cause damage to the frame and springs. Generally, a manufacturer will suggest having only one person on the trampoline from a safety point of view. However, this is impractical as a parent if you have energetic kids and only one trampoline. Do find out what the recommended weight is though, as you wouldn’t want to have ten kids on a cheap trampoline designed for only 100 pounds of kid.
Avoid jumping or playing rough games on the trampoline. No sharp toys or high heels on the mat. As well as damage to the trampoline, some kids’ bouncing is unpredictable, and nobody wants to lose an eye.
7. Appropriate environment
Place your trampoline on a level, firm surface that’s free from sharp objects, rocks, and other hazards. Avoid placing it near trees, power lines, or other obstacles that could cause damage to the trampoline. And, of course, you don’t want the kids’ heads to hit an overhanging bough of a tree. Read here to see where to put your trampoline in the yard.
In Summary
Your trampoline is an investment in the fun and enjoyment of your yard. By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your trampoline lasts as long as possible and provides years of safe, enjoyable use for you and your family.
