How to Know When To Replace Your Trampoline?
Trampolines are typically one of the best outdoor toys that you will ever buy for your kids, but they don't last forever, and oftentimes components will need to be replaced or you may need a new trampoline.
Most trampolines will last between eight and ten years, but it really depends on how much it gets used and whether you opt for a premium trampoline or a lighter, cheaper model. The more premium models will last longer.
How to Know When to Replace Your Trampoline Explained.
If you need to replace two or more parts then we would strongly recommend replacing the whole trampoline as you could end up spending more than the price of a new trampoline by gradually replacing various parts over a six or twelve month period.
If everything is in good working order and has been well-maintained then we often see premium brand trampolines lasting ten years or more.
That includes the trampoline frames that are virtually indestructible, springs, jumpmats, padding and safety nets enclosures.
The things that could wear fastest are -
1. trampoline springs
Particularly if the trampoline has been overloaded with too many kids.
If the trampoline has not been overloaded then the springs will last for a very long time. Most standard models usually offer a two year warranty on the springs, while more premium models will offer five years.
When a trampoline has been overloaded what can happen is that the springs get stretched out, and they lose their tension. This can also lead to problems with the jump mat.
How to Check Your Springs
To check your trampoline springs simply slide back the padding and visually inspect the springs.
Have they been stretched or are they taut?
Are there any springs missing?
Are any of the springs broken?
Are any of the springs rusted?
2. jump mats
Again jump mats normally last for a very long time. Typically the scenarios where a jump mat can become damaged include -
(a) a result of overloading the trampoline and the D-rings that connect the jump mat to the springs get torn from their stitching, and
(b) over exuberant pets can tear the jump mat with their claws.
Other than that jump mats are pretty resilient and will continue to perform for many years.
How to Check Your Jump Mat
Does the jump mat sag when not in use?
Are all the D-rings in place where the springs connect the trampoline frame to the jumpmat?
Are any of the D-rings damaged or about to pop from the jumpmat?
Is the jumpmat torn or ripped?
3. padding
Most premium trampoline brands offer a two to five year warranty on the padding. Padding tends to last much longer than this but it really depends on how much exposure to the elements that the trampoline has, and how much wear and tear or use that the trampoline endures.
Frequently lawnmowers and strimmers are responsible for a lot of padding that needs replaced, especially on inground and flatground trampolines.
How to Check Your Trampoline Padding
Is the padding securely in place over the trampoline springs?
This is one of the key safety features of a trampoline and prevents trampoline users from landing on the springs when jumping on the trampoline.
Is the padding firm and robust and in good condition so that it will actually offer protection from the springs if someone landed on it while bouncing. Beware thin or flimsy trampoline padding.
4. trampoline safety nets
Again whether or net your trampoline safety net will need to be replaced will often come down to how the product has been used, and particularly how the trampoline has fared during storms.
Typically if one of the parts goes on your trampoline that can usually be quite easily replaced, but it depends which part has become damaged or worn.
What we often find for example is that if your trampoline jumpmat needs to be replaced then it may mean that the trampoline has been used fairly intensely and the springs may not be far behind.
How to Check Your trampoline Safety Net
Check that the poles that hold the safety net in place are securely affixed to the trampoline frame.
Check that the safety net hasn't been ripped or torn and is connected to the safety net poles both at the top and bottom.
Check the entrance through the trampoline safety net that everything is in good working order and is performing as it should. The last thing that you want is for someone to roll out of the trampoline, unintentionally.
CONCLUSION
So if on close inspection you determine that you only need to replace one part then we are all for that, but if you need to replace two or more parts then we would strongly recommend replacing the whole trampoline as you could end up spending more than the price of a new trampoline by gradually replacing various parts over a six or twelve month period.
If you have any questions or you need any help please phone us on 01 960 1641.