Trampoline FAQ
Making a Choice
- Are the trampolines with bands better than those with springs?
The models which use fiberglass bands are considered novelty since they were formally introduced just over a decade ago. However, they have become very widely used as they offer a very high level of safety. This is a major benefit, but there are also some drawbacks which you have to take into consideration.
Fiberglass is much less resistant to UV damage compared to metal. Detachment of the bands is also possible. When it is time for band replacement, the whole mat has to be replaced. You have to weigh the pros and cons of both options to make a well-informed decision.
- How important is the shape of the trampoline?
Most models for home user are round and this is generally a great shape to opt for. It allows for the full space to be used. It contributes to bouncing. It makes people feel more comfortable and helps to get the body naturally to the center of the jumping mat. The round models come in a huge variety of sizes. The rectangular models are designed for gymnastics training. The square devices for domestic use are typically quite large, very bouncy and can accommodate several people at the same time. The octagonal models have similar characteristics to the round ones. They usually come in larger sizes.
- What should I look for in the frame?
The frame must be made from thick and strong metal. Galvanized steel is a top option. Steel has excellent strength and durability while the galvanized zinc coating provides effective protection from rust and corrosion. This material does not require any particular maintenance.
When it comes to the design of the frame, it must allow for perfect stability even on a lawn. You should consider getting a model whose frame in entirely under the mat and there are no components sticking outside. These trampolines are seen to be safer when compared to their counterparts.
- How do I pick trampoline for weight loss?
You need a device which is especially designed for exercise. These models have a smaller diameter compared to the ones used for entertainment. They are shorter as well. It is best to opt for a portable device which can be set up on most types of flooring used in the typical house. The installation, dismantling and folding must be easy. One of the most important things is to check the maximum user weight allowed. It is typically quite high. You should also pay close attention to the make and durability of the device.
- What kinds of trampoline accessories do I need?
The safety enclosures are mandatory for larger devices and especially the ones which will be used by children. If the device will be set up outdoors, you will certainly benefit from using a specially designed cover. It will protect the components from the elements and help to extend their useful life.
A ladder will make accessing the jumping pad easier. You can use an anchoring kit for securing the device to the ground. You can also setup a canopy for protection from the sun above the device. All of these accessories are highly useful.
- How noisy are modern trampolines?
The noise levels produced by the different models vary depending on the design and make. However, they are fairly quiet. Jumpers and people standing around the device should not find the produced sound too loud or annoying.
Generally, the devices which use fiberglass bands rather than springs are considered to be quieter, but the make of the frame will also play a role. The surface which the device is setup on is important as well. If it is harder such as wood patio deck, the produced noise will be louder. A softer surface such as ground covered with grass will do a better job in absorbing the vibration and reducing the noise.
- What should I look for in the safety enclosure?
This accessory should be chosen as carefully as the trampoline itself. You have to ensure that it will provide the maximum possible protection. Check the net’s design and make and confirm that it cannot be torn easily. The thickness and strength of the weave are particularly important. The net must be resistant to weather damage and UV damage, in particular. Check the material which it is made from to confirm this. When it comes to the poles, they must be strong yet flexible to ensure that they will not cause injury during impact. The enclosure must be properly secured to the main unit.
- Do I need trampoline canopy or tent?
Both the canopy and the tent provide protection from the sun to the people who are using the device. They help to protect the jumping mat and other components from UV damage as well. The canopy goes over the mat only while the tent has walls which go on the sides of the unit. The tent provides more protection, but it reduces the visibility of the supervisors. Given this, a tent with clear windows is recommended. The most important thing of all is for the cover’s height to match the head clearance which the device requires.
Setup and Use
- Which is the best place for the trampoline?
Smaller portable devices can fit inside the house while larger ones are suitable for outdoor use. You have to check what the manufacturer recommends. The device must be set up on a surface which is solid but not hard. Outside, lawns and areas covered with wood chips are the best options. If needed, a mat should be placed underneath the device. You must allow overhead clearance of 25 feet and side clearance of at least 8 feet. The device must be installed away from traffic areas.
- Can the trampoline go on a slope?
This depends on the size and design of the unit and on the steepness of the slope. If the slope is not steep and the device has sufficiently long legs, you can go for this option. Just make sure that you will adhere to the requirement for side clearance room. In order for the device to be even, you will have to set the upper legs which would go on the slope in a hole. The lower legs will require support. You can set them on wooden blocks.
- Can I set up the trampoline by myself?
DIY installation is an option for most models for home use. If the device is very large and complex, however, you may opt for professional installation. This can be quite valuable when the device has to be secured to the ground.
In general, even if you opt for a DIY project, you will need at least one helper. Larger models, require three or four people for setup. This is necessary for setting the mat onto the frame properly. A single person cannot do it. It is crucial that you follow all instructions for installation strictly.
- Can I use the device if I am close to the maximum weight allowed?
Yes, you can do this. You should feel perfectly confident about using the device. You can expect complete safety. You just need to make sure that this limit is never exceeded. One important thing to note, however, is that just like the level of use, the weight of the user has impact on the useful life of the springs (bands) and the mat. These components will get worn out more quickly when they are under greater tension. That is why it is essential to inspect them more frequently and to opt for replacement when you notice considerable wear and tear.
- What shoes are suitable for trampoline users?
It is best to use gymnastics shoes. They are soft and do an excellent job in protecting both the feet and the jumping mat’s surface. It is best if they are reserved for this activity only. The basic gymnastics shoe models are more than affordable so you can get a pair for each member of the family. If you use the device for professional training, you can opt for a more advanced pair. There are models which are especially designed for this type of activity. If you do not wear special shoes, you should wear a pair of strong and comfy socks. The device must not be used with regular shoes.
- Are there common safety mistakes which must be avoided?
One major mistake is to leave portable objects such as toys, accessories and drinks in the clearance area. This may pose a serious safety risk. Another big mistake is to use the trampoline when it is wet and slippery. In this case, the risk of injury gets much higher. You need to have at least one or preferably two supervisors who stand nearby and keep a close watch over the jumpers at all times. The supervisors must be ready to come to the rescue at any time.
- When should children be allowed to use the trampoline?
Safety experts recommend that children under the age of 6 should use only devices which are especially designed for youngsters. Additionally, children who cannot stand and walk stably should not be allowed on any type of trampoline including one designed for kids.
When kids are allowed to use the device, all safety rules must be followed strictly. Close supervision from one or preferably more adults is required at all times. You must remember to take away the ladder for accessing the device when the fun time is over.
- Can I do somersaults on my trampoline?
For safety reasons, it is best not to perform these at home. This is especially applicable to those who have never tried acrobatic jumping and to those who are still learning. If you decide to do somersaults or flips this must be done with the assistance and under the supervision of a professional trainer. Another very important thing to note is that not all devices of this type are suitable for doing somersaults. This is because you must have sufficient space to gain speed and to land.
Maintenance and Storage
- How do I protect my trampoline from UV damage?
The UV rays of the sun can cause damage to plastic components and layers of carbon black over a longer period of time. The best way to protect the device is to cover it with a specially designed cover when it is not in use. Another option is to set up a canopy or tent over it. This will keep the device fully protected at all times. In general, it is best to provide regular inspection to all components. In this way, you will be able to replace worn-out and damaged ones timely.
- Should I store my outdoor trampoline inside during the colder months?
This is a highly recommended option as indoor storage will help to protect the device from the cold, moisture and animal activity. However, if the device is very large and/or you do not have enough room to keep it in the garage or inside the house, you can still provide good protection to it. For this, you will need a specially designed weather-resistant cover of the appropriate size. It must go over all components of the structure. You must secure it properly as well.
- Can I clean the jumping mat with warm water and soap?
This is generally not recommended as both of these cleaning materials may have an adverse impact on the strength and durability of the mat. Still you should check what your owner’s manual says on the matter. It is possible for some manufacturers to allow cleaning with warm water and soap. It is important to note that you can achieve good results even without these aids. You can remove debris with a soft-bristle brush and use a cloth damped in cold water to deal with more stubborn dirt.
- How frequently should I inspect the trampoline?
If you use the device on a seasonal basis, you have to run thorough inspection, which covers each and every component of the system, before the start of the season and right after its end. While the device is setup, it is best to inspect before every use just to be on the safe side. If you notice any kinds of changes in the components or in the overall performance of the device, you must stop using it immediately and check it for damage very closely.
- Which components have the fastest rate of wear and tear?
These are the components which get the most tension and the ones which are in direct contact with the users of the trampoline. The list includes the springs, the padding around them and the jumping pad. You have to inspect them extremely closely for signs of wear and tear and damage. If necessary, they have to be replaced without delay.
The protective cover may also get worn-out more quickly as it is exposed to the damaging effects of the weather most of the time. Timely replacement is essential as the cover helps to extend the useful life of the device.
- How often should springs be replaced?
Springs tend to get loose over time, but the speed of this process depends their quality and on the use of the trampoline. It is best if you test them regularly to check their operation condition. You simply need to hold the end of the coil and shake each spring. The ones which vibrate too much have got loose and it is time to replace them. It is mandatory for the new springs to have the same specifications as the old ones so that the system remains safe and effective at all times.
- What maintenance should I provide in the winter?
The trampoline should be well protected from snow, ice and chemicals used for melting snow and cleaning. If you keep the device inside, you must ensure that it stays in a dry place. If you keep it on the garage floor, you have to wash the floor to remove road salts which can damage the galvanized steel frame.
If you keep the device covered outside, you have to remove any snow which falls on the cover after every snowfall. In this way, you will prevent the device from damage caused by heavy weight and moisture.
Troubleshooting and Repair
- Why are our socks getting black while using the trampoline?
This typically happens when the topmost layer of the jumping mat has been affected by the UV rays of the sun. This is not dangerous and should not affect the strength of the mat in the short term. In order to resolve the problem, you can replace the old mat with a new one. You can also set a canopy over the device to protect it from the sun. Less often, socks are getting darker because of lots of dust and dirt accumulating on the mat. It requires regular cleaning.
- How do I fix noisy springs?
The springs of a trampoline typically start making a lot of noise when they become rusty. You should inspect them carefully to confirm this. Severely damaged or broken springs must be replaced.
Heavy rust is removed with the use of steel wool. Once there is only a thin layer of rust, it can be removed with an appropriate product or with a home solution such as lemon juice. After the cleaning, you need to apply lubricant. Check what the manufacturer of the device recommends. Usually, common household oil will do the job quite well.
- Why has my trampoline lost most of its bounciness?
You will notice that when you jump, you get much closer to the ground than usual. This happens when the springs get loose or bands lose most of their elasticity. In both cases, timely replacement is required. You would not want to wait as breakage may occur and this can cause a serious accident. In case of springs, only the loose ones have to be replaced. In case of fiberglass bands, all bands and the jumping mat will have to be removed and a new system will have to be set up in their place.
- How are jumping mat holes repaired?
The method which is used for the repair of mat holes is patching. It works effectively while being fairly easy to use. It is possible for holes which are smaller than one inch to be fixed at home. In case the hole is bigger, professional repair is required. Patching involves sewing a piece of the same material over the hole. Stitching reinforcement is required. If you feel that you are not up to the task of patching even a small hole, you should take the mat to a professional to be on the safe side.
- How do I fix a torn safety net?
This depends on the size of the tear. Small tears which are shorter than five inches can be repaired. If the tear is considerably bigger, you should consider purchasing replacement net for safety reasons.
Small tears can be fixed by sewing the two separated parts together. Alternatively, they can be taped together with the use of duct tape. The former option is generally safer and more reliable. In any case, you must ensure that the net becomes perfectly strong once again. The repaired section must be fully resistant to heavy impact.
- How do I go about trampoline frame replacement?
It is important to note that the frame is typically the most expensive part of the device. That is why its replacement tends to be quite costly. That is why it pays off compare the cost of replacing the frame with the cost of buying a new device. The other thing to keep in mind is that not all manufacturers provide replacement frames. If you cannot find a precise match for the damaged system component, it is best to invest in a new device. This is because even the slightest difference between the original and the replacement component may pose a serious safety risk.
- Where do I find spare parts?
It is best to check the availability of spare parts before purchasing a trampoline just in case. Most manufacturers offer a full collection of replacement parts. The parts can be available directly from them or from a dealer.
You must use only original spare parts or ones which have been explicitly approved by the device’s manufacturer. If you do not know how to make the required repair, you should turn to a professional to take care of it. These are essential safety precautions to take when replacing damaged components.