Can I Sink A Regular Above Ground Trampoline in the Ground?
When it comes to the modifications that can be made to a trampoline there are lots of things that can be done, including sinking an regular above ground trampoline in the ground.
And while it can be done, and we will discuss that further below, it doesn't mean that it should be done.
A regular above ground trampoline can be dug into the ground so that it looks and performs in a similar way to a purpose-designed and built inground or flatground trampoline, however it may not perform in exactly the same way.
Reasons Not to Sink An Above Ground Trampoline in The Ground.
1. May Invalidate the Warranty
We suggest checking your warranty, however if the trampoline is not being used in the way that it was designed to be used, it may invalidate the warranty.
2. May Require A Lot More Digging & Soil Removal
Typical flatground and inground trampoline installations usually recommend a bowl shaped, concave hole that is deepest in the middle.
If you are digging in a conventional above ground trampoline, you will need an equal hole depth right across the hole and this will require that you remove 40 to 50% more soil.
Also, because you are not using a concave, bowl-shaped hole there may be the risk of the sides caving in. So you might need some type of retaining wall.
3. Beware Gaps
Because the trampoline has not been designed to be fitted into the ground, the end product may not be a good fit. Please pay particular attention to any gaps between the frame and the ground, or the hole.
4. Ariflow/ Slapping
Inground and flatground trampolines are designed to rest on or near the ground and their design accomodates airflow so that it is not an issue.
If there is inadequate airflow underneath your trampoline where the air does not escape you will hearing a slapping noise against the padding and jumpmat when the kids bounce, and they will experience a duller bounce.
5. Wear & Tear And Longevity
Often the trampoline frame on a inground or flatground trampoline will be designed and built in a different way than regular above ground trampoline, to account for higher moisture levels on the ground.
As the frame on an above ground trampoline may not be treated in the same way, it could rust quicker, and we would repeat that is unlikely that this would be covered under warranty.
What Are The Dangers of Sinking An Above Ground Trampoline in the Ground?
1. the floor of the hole that you dig may not be level
Trampoline surfaces should be quite level for the safety of the users.
If the trampoline wobbles or slopes to one side then this could cause injury, if kids lose their balance or fall off.
2. do not remove the trampoline padding
Some people may remove the padding over the springs to accommodate adequate airflow or because the padding does not sit properly where the trampoline meets the ground.
Trampolines are supplied with padding that covers the springs for the safety of trampoline users, and so that injuries are not caused by landing on the springs. We urge you not to remove the padding.
3. using the trampoline without a safety net
Remember that the ground can be a very hard surface to land on, and so you should properly consider whether or not you need a safety net.
As a general rule, the younger that your kids are the more that we tend to recommend a safety net.
FINAL WORD
Like many things in life, just because it can be done, does not mean that it should be done.
If you have any questions please phone us on 01 960 1641.