Trampolines are a popular piece of equipment purchased for home recreation. Nearly 500,000 trampolines are sold annually to homes and businesses worldwide. If you have ever bought or looked to purchase a trampoline, you know how expensive the investment can be. When making such an investment, you want it to be lasting.
Trampolines are not made to be long-term pieces of equipment, but you can expect to get at least three years of use out of your trampoline and possibly up to eight if you take care of it properly. Depending on the type of trampoline and where you live, the maintenance will vary.
In this article, you will learn about the lifespan of the trampoline and what you can do to extend the life of your trampoline.
How to Make Trampolines Last Longer
If you are fortunate enough to have ample space to house your trampoline inside, the life of your product will be significantly higher. However, like most people, your trampoline is likely anchored in your backyard. Exposure to the elements will reduce the life of your trampoline and will require proper care.
The length of time you will have your trampoline is dependent on many factors, but it ultimately begins when you purchase the product. Like most things, you get what you pay for, so if you choose an inexpensive trampoline, you may find it doesn’t last as long as a more expensive version. Here are the things you can do to extend the life of your trampoline.
Cover
While it may seem like an added step, keeping your trampoline covered when not in use is going to extend the life of your product. Leaves and other debris that may fall on the trampoline can cause damage over time. Covering the trampoline will help prevent damage from occurring. Just make sure the cover fits the trampoline properly.
Clean
Although your trampoline is outside, you will need to take time to clean it. Keeping the mat and pads clean will extend the life and limit the risk of mold and mildew forming. This will also allow you to check the trampoline for damages or weak areas.
Location
Never use a trampoline on a slope or hill. Not only is it dangerous to jump on an incline, but it can inhibit the integrity of the frame, causing it to weaken or break over time. Keeping the trampoline on a flat surface and tethered to the ground will ensure it isn’t moving during jumping or storms.
Storage
A trampoline can be stored outside year-round, but if you know you aren’t going to be using it for an extended period, it may be best to take the enclosures off and place a cover over the mat. If you live in a frigid climate, you may even want to take the entire trampoline apart and store it in a safe place.
Usage
Following the guidelines provided by the company for weight limits and use will help extend the life of your trampoline. Weight guidelines are provided to ensure the frame and mat will maintain their strength. Failure to follow the usage guidelines will likely drastically limit the life of the trampoline.
Keeping a Trampoline Clean
One of the best things you can do for your trampoline is to keep it clean. Not only will this preserve the appearance of the trampoline, but it will also extend the life of your product. When cleaning the trampoline, you have to be cautious about what you use.
No Chemicals
It may be tempting to spray chemicals on the trampoline to remove the dirt that has settled on the mat and pads. However, this could cause damage to the trampoline. While many chemicals can quickly clean away the dirt, they can also break down the trampoline’s materials.
Soap and Water
A simple dish soap and water solution will easily clean the trampoline mat and pads. When you use soap and water, make sure you rinse the trampoline well to avoid a build-up of soapy residue.
No Pressure Washer
Pressure washers can make cleaning easy, but they can damage trampolines. The high pressure can tear both the mat and safety enclosure netting. Because of this, you mustn’t use a pressure washer on your trampoline.
Will Taking a Trampoline Apart Damage it?
If you have a space to store your trampoline during months that it is not being used, you may have the option of taking it apart. The disassembly of a trampoline is quite simple and can help extend the life of your product. When taking the trampoline apart, you need to use caution, so you don’t damage any parts and label everything, so it is easier to reassemble.
The only way damage will occur when you disassemble the trampoline is if you don’t use care or the proper tools. It is essential that you carefully examine all parts of the trampoline when you take it apart. While it is not in use, you may be able to request replacement parts, so it is ready in the spring.
Final Thoughts
Trampolines offer a fun option for recreation at home. If you purchase a quality trampoline and take the time to maintain the product properly, you will likely enjoy the product for many years. The improper care and use of the trampoline will significantly decrease the product’s life.