Trampolines are fun, and some of them might be regarded as considerable investments. Whether you have just finished assembling your trampoline or you bought it several years ago, there is a need to learn how to maintain a trampoline properly.
This maintenance guide will allow you to keep your trampoline in a perfect state for a long time.
Weight and number of users on the trampoline
Trampolines are produced with a weight limit. It is advised to take note of the weight limit so as not to cause premature deterioration of the jump fabric, the springs or deformation of the structure of the trampoline.
The thickness of the structure and the T-pieces, the number and size of the springs, and the density of the jump fabric are adapted to a particular use. They are also sized to withstand a maximum weight.
Under a lot of weight, the elements of your trampoline could break or deteriorate much faster than expected, and the safety of the users is at stake
Maintenance of a trampoline through the seasons
Rain, wind, snow, or very severe winters can slowly deteriorate your trampoline.
Protect your trampoline in autumn and winter
In autumn, falling leaves and frequent showers are the main risks of dirtying your trampoline.
To effectively protect your trampoline from external deterioration, it is advised that you install a protective cover. This cover would protect your jump cloth, the springs, and the water cushion. It would also help to keep your trampoline clean in any circumstances.
The protective covers are installed very simply thanks to elastics, and they have water outlets so that the weight of the water does not stagnate over the jump fabric.
For winter, remove the jump cloth from your trampoline and save it. Avoid contact with water and cold temperatures. You can leave the springs outside in case you don’t want to go through the hassle of reassembling the trampoline.
In case of snow, make sure to remove the snow that accumulates on your trampoline regularly.
Protect your trampoline in spring
In spring, storms or pollen and seeds can quickly soil and age your jump fabric
Protect your trampoline from the wind
Violent winds can cause your trampoline to roll over. In case of storms, remove the protection net or any such attachments so that they do not suffer any damage.
If you have enough space, place the trampoline in a place sheltered from the wind like a garage or shed. Do not forget to use an anchor kit should you decide to leave the trampoline outside. The anchor kit helps to keep the trampoline set well grounded.
Protect the trampoline from animals
Animals can also “attack” your trampoline, either by playing or wanting to hide under the trampoline. In general, block access to your trampoline, you will prevent your pets from damaging the trampoline elements (a cat that scratches the jump cloth, for example).
To block access under the trampoline, use a protective skirt which will prevent animals from sneaking under the trampoline.
During the seasons, when you regularly use your trampoline, the safety net constitutes a barrier to prohibit access to the trampoline for animals.
Check the condition of your trampoline
When you reassemble your trampoline or reuse it, take the opportunity to carefully check the fundamental parts of the trampoline, to verify that they are still in good condition.
1. The structure of the trampoline
Check carefully that there is no missing part, that there is no deformation, no breakage or crease in it.
If any part has a vital defect or the slightest trace of consequent deterioration, do not hesitate to replace it.
2. Check the condition of the springs of your trampoline
Verify that your springs have proper tension and that they are in excellent general condition.
Also, verify that each of the hooks of the jump fabric has a spring.
3. Monitor the condition of the jumpbed of the trampoline
Check the state of the technical material of your jump fabric. Be careful, especially if there are holes, burns, hooks, seams and, signs of deterioration.
Also, check the tension of your jump fabric and confirm that it does not show deformations.
4. Check the protection pad of the trampoline
Consider checking your hitch system (straps or elastic) so that it does not move during the first jumps and prevents the jumper from hitting the springs or structure.
5. Clean a trampoline
Finally, to keep your trampoline in good condition, clean it from time to time. Remove dead leaves, spider webs, dust that may have remained on the trampoline.
If you want to wash the jump cloth, you can clean it with a soft cloth, warm water, and dishwashing liquid. You will then have to rinse it with clean water and let it dry in the open air. Be careful not to use other detergents that could spoil your jump cloth.
You must know how to take care of your trampoline for financial and more importantly, for safety reasons.
Follow the guide in this article to find the best trampoline maintenance practices.
Terkura Vincent is a Trampoline Safety Advocate and CEO of Casdale Trampoline Safety Centre. Our passion is to see families enjoy trampoline with utmost safety. You can help us do this by sharing the articles with other families that use trampoline.
You can reach Kevin at kevin@casdale.com