Top Ten Questions about buying a trampoline
Here are 10 of the most frequently asked questions about buying a trampoline.
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My neighbors had safety nets and theirs just fell apart after barely any use! Should I get one and how do I make sure it is going to last?
High quality trampoline safety net enclosures are a necessity to safe trampoline play. Typically, they are made of polypropylene, the same material used for trampoline mats and have a wide weave to the net so parents can see through the net to supervise their children. Check out our trampoline safety net enclosure recommendations.
What is the difference between safety nets inside the springs and outside the springs?
The difference is trampoline safety! We recommend purchasing a safety net that attaches outside of the springs. We know this sounds counter intuitive for the few who fear injury from the springs themselves. However, more safety hazards are presented by a safety net attaching inside the springs. When bouncers jump into the net, there is the possibility of them hitting the frame and springs instead of being guided back to the mat. In addition, when there are multiple jumpers, having the net outside the spring pad allows kids to use the spring pad as rest areas and kids are able to trade off who is bouncing without having to leave the trampoline. This encourages safe play without fighting about who gets to be on the trampoline.
What ages are appropriate for trampoline use?
Trampolines are great exercise for kids and adults. However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) warn that trampolines over 20 inches tall are not recommended for children under 6 years of age. We always encourage families to use trampolines only with mature, responsible, and knowledgeable supervision.
How many jumpers should be on a trampoline at one time?
We always recommend one jumper at a time. That being said, we realize families need to make rules that work best for their family. So, we suggest that those who choose to allow multiple jumpers take extra safety precautions. First, always supervise your kids when on the trampoline. Due make a limit to the number allowed on at once and make sure the kids follow that rule. Try to have kids of the same size on the trampoline at the same time (helps keep smaller, younger kids from being accidentally bounced up too high). Make sure your safety net attaches outside of the frame to allow a space for jumpers to yield to one another. Finally, invest in DoubleBounce Safety System. This unique trampoline absorbs the shock created by multiple jumpers – check it out!
What is a prorated warranty?
A prorated warranty covers a percentage of the replacement part cost, often depending on the length of time you have the product compared to the warranty length. For example, if a trampoline frame has a 10-year warranty and the frame breaks after 5 years of use, the consumer is responsible for 50% of the cost to replace the frame. It is important to understand a manufacturer’s warranty policy before purchasing a product.
What is the difference between the different shapes trampolines come in?
The most common trampoline shapes are round and rectangular. Round trampolines are typical for backyard trampolines since they are more conducive for creative play and do not take up as much space. Rectangular trampolines are good tools for those using a trampoline to train for other athletic activities. They are often more expensive because of added engineering and manufacturing required since the tension is not naturally equal on the frame as with round trampolines.
What do I do with my trampoline during the winter?
Kids love to bounce all year long so most families choose to leave their trampolines up throughout winter. In general, if you live in an area where typical snowfall is measured in inches rather than feet, disassembly is not necessary. We want to avoid the snow piling up on the mat and pad, possibly ripping them and also possibly overstretching the springs from the weight of the snow. Simply have someone go brush the snow off the trampoline after even snow fall (please be sure to use a soft broom or brush—never a shovel as it may rip the mat).
If your snowfall is measured in feet, you will need to disassemble parts of your trampoline. To store a trampoline for the winter, remove the jumping surface (mat), the springs or rods, and the frame pads. If your frame is made of high quality steel that will not rust, leave the rail pieces, legs, and safety net poles attached. If your safety net is made of polypropylene, you can usually leave the net without inflicting unnecessary deterioration. 5-gallon paint buckets make great storage tools of springs and other loose parts.
What should I do if I live in a windy area?
Although trampoline anchor kits are not guaranteed to secure trampolines to the ground in severe weather situations, they are extremely helpful in reasonably windy areas. During severe winds, we strongly encourage removing the trampoline mat by disconnecting all of the springs or disassembling the entire trampoline.
How much overhead clearance do you need with a trampoline?
We recommend at least 24 feet of overhead clearance from the ground up.
How much side clearance do you need with a trampoline when using a safety net?
The amount of side clearance necessary depends upon your safety enclosure and how much it can flex away from the trampoline mat. This can typically range from 2 to 8 feet. Additional side clearance is necessary if you choose to use a trampoline without a safety net.