INGROUND vs FLATGROUND vs ABOVE-GROUND TRAMPOLINES: COMPLETE IRISH GUIDE 2025/ 2026

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Trampoline Installation Type

One of the biggest decisions when buying a trampoline is choosing the installation type: InGround, FlatGround, or Above-Ground (Regular). Each offers unique benefits and challenges, and the right choice depends on your garden, budget, safety priorities, and long-term plans.

This comprehensive guide compares all three installation types to help Irish families make the right decision for their specific situation.

Quick Summary:

  • InGround = Sits 10-20cm above ground (low-profile, safer, sophisticated)
  • FlatGround = Completely flush at 0cm (invisible, ultimate aesthetics, premium)
  • Above-Ground = Traditional on legs at 100cm+ height (easiest, relocatable, DIY)

Video: InGround & FlatGround Explained

This short video explains the key visual and functional differences between InGround and FlatGround trampolines.


Quick Comparison Table

Feature InGround (Sunken) FlatGround (Flush Sunken) Above-Ground (Regular)
Height above ground 10-20cm 0cm (completely flush) 100-110cm
Visual impact Very low profile Invisible from distance Traditional/dominant
Fall height 10-20cm (very safe) 0cm (safest possible) 100-110cm (significant)
Safety nets available ✅ All options (Comfort, Deluxe, XL) ⚠️ Sport Mode or XL only ✅ All options included
Installation complexity High (professional recommended) Very High (professional essential) Low (DIY possible)
Pit depth required 60-70cm 90-100cm (full meter) None (sits on lawn)



Sophisticated/low-profile Ultimate invisible/premium Traditional/visible
Wind resistance Excellent (low profile) Excellent (flush) Requires anchoring
Relocatable No (permanent) No (permanent) Yes (can move)
Initial cost Higher (excavation) Highest (deep excavation) Lower (no excavation)
Installation time 1-2 days 2-4 days 2-4 hours (DIY)
Long-term value Premium garden feature Ultimate garden feature Standard equipment
Best for Permanent homes, safety priority Ultimate aesthetics, premium properties Renters, DIY, budget, relocatable
Irish popularity 35% 10% 55%

What Are The Three Installation Types?

InGround Trampolines (Also Called "Sunken Trampolines")

What They Are: InGround trampolines sit 10-20cm above ground level with the frame positioned around a bowl-shaped pit. The trampoline has short legs (compared to 100cm+ legs on above-ground models) that rest on the ground around the excavated hole.

Key Characteristics:

  • Small step up onto padding and mat (approximately 10-20cm/4-8 inches)
  • Frame visible but low-profile
  • Pit depth: 60-70cm (bowl-shaped, deepest in center)
  • Safety nets available in all configurations
  • Also known as "sunken trampolines"

Visual: From a distance, you see a low black frame with net poles (if installed). Much less imposing than traditional above-ground trampolines.


FlatGround Trampolines (Also Called "Flush Sunken Trampolines")

What They Are: FlatGround trampolines are completely flush with the ground at 0cm with the frame recessed/countersunk into the ground so the jumping mat is level with your lawn.

Key Characteristics:

  • Zero step - walk directly onto mat from grass
  • Frame completely hidden below ground level
  • Pit depth: 90-100cm (full meter - deepest excavation)
  • Limited safety net options (Sport Mode or Deluxe XL only)
  • Ultimate invisible aesthetic
  • Also known as "flush trampolines" or "flush sunken trampolines"

Visual: From a distance, essentially invisible. With Sport Mode (no net), you cannot see the trampoline until you're right next to it. Even with XL net, dramatically lower profile than above-ground.


Above-Ground Trampolines (Also Called "Regular Trampolines")

What They Are: Above-Ground trampolines sit on 100-110cm tall legs directly on your lawn with no excavation required.

Key Characteristics:

  • Traditional trampoline design
  • Ladder required for access (100cm+ height)
  • No excavation needed
  • Sits entirely above ground
  • Safety net included (standard)
  • Can be DIY assembled

Visual: Traditional trampoline look - visible prominent garden feature with tall frame and net enclosure.


Detailed Comparison: InGround Trampolines

What You Get with InGround

Safety Benefits:

  • Reduced fall height: Only 10-20cm to ground (vs 100cm+ above-ground)
  • Less intimidating: Easier for young children to start
  • Better supervision: Parents at eye-level with jumpers
  • Psychological safety: Ground proximity provides comfort

Aesthetic Benefits:

  • Low-profile: Doesn't dominate garden visually
  • Modern look: Contemporary sophisticated design
  • Property value: Premium garden feature
  • Furniture friendly: Garden furniture can sit near frame

Performance Benefits:

  • Wind stable: Low profile = excellent in Irish Atlantic weather
  • Protected: Somewhat sheltered in pit from worst weather
  • Year-round: Better winter durability

Practical Benefits:

  • All safety net options: Comfort, Deluxe, Deluxe XL all available
  • Walk-on with Sport Mode: Easy access without ladder
  • All ages suitable: Grandparents to grandchildren can use

Installation Requirements for InGround

Excavation:

  • Pit depth: 60-70cm (bowl-shaped)
  • Deepest point in center (where kids bounce most)
  • Shallower at edges
  • Total pit diameter: Trampoline diameter + 30-40cm margin
  • Significant soil removal (1-2 tons for 12ft trampoline)

Drainage System (Essential):

  • 15-20cm gravel base layer minimum
  • Perforated drainage pipes throughout
  • Connection to garden drainage or soakaway
  • Critical in Irish weather conditions

Professional Installation:

  • 50% of customers choose professional
  • 1-2 day installation typically

DIY Possible?

  • Technically yes for experienced DIYers
  • Requires mini-digger rental (€100-200/day)
  • Drainage expertise essential
  • Physical and technical challenge
  • Most choose professional for peace of mind

Cost Breakdown: InGround

Total Investment:

Value Analysis:

  • Premium garden feature
  • Adds property value
  • 10-15 year lifespan
  • €113-€293/year cost over 15 years

Problems/Challenges with InGround

1. You Must Dig a Large Hole

Reality:

  • 60-70cm deep bowl-shaped excavation
  • Manual digging: 8-12 hours for 12ft trampoline
  • Mini-digger recommended: 2-3 hours
  • Significant physical effort if DIY

Soil Disposal:

  • 1-2 tons of soil to remove/relocate
  • Options: spread in garden, raise beds, dispose off-site
  • Cost factor if professional removal needed

 


2. It's Permanent (Cannot Relocate)

Considerations:

  • Cannot move if you relocate home
  • Hole remains if you remove trampoline
  • Commitment to location in garden
  • Factor this into decision if may move

3. Maintenance Access More Complex

Challenges:

  • Harder to reach under frame (it's in a pit)
  • Pit edges need grass maintenance
  • Wildlife/debris can accumulate in pit

4. Ground Must Be Level

Issue: Trampoline jumping surface must be level for safety. If ground is uneven:

  • Professional excavation can level surrounding area
  • More complex installation
  • Potentially higher costs

Benefit: Actually easier to level during professional InGround installation than trying to level above-ground trampoline on uneven lawn.


InGround in Different Irish Soil Types

Clay Soil (Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Cork):

  • ⚠️ Poor drainage - advanced system essential
  • Excavation challenging when wet
  • Professional installation strongly recommended

Sandy Soil (Coastal Areas):

  • ✅ Better natural drainage
  • Easier excavation
  • Still needs proper drainage system
  • Professional or experienced DIY possible

Rocky Soil (Western Ireland):

  • ⚠️ Excavation very challenging at 60-70cm depth
  • May hit bedrock
  • Professional equipment essential
  • Expect higher installation costs

Detailed Comparison: FlatGround Trampolines

What You Get with FlatGround

Ultimate Aesthetic Benefits:

  • Completely invisible: Absolutely flush with lawn (0cm)
  • Walk-on from any side: No step whatsoever
  • Premium statement: Highest-end garden feature
  • Property showcase: Ultimate sophisticated design
  • Nearly invisible from distance: Cannot see until close

Safety Benefits:

  • Zero fall height: Absolute safest fall scenario
  • Ground-level access: Even easier than InGround
  • Wind stability: Lowest possible profile

Performance:

  • Same excellent BERG TwinSpring and AirFlow technology
  • Professional bounce quality
  • Superior wind handling (flush = minimal resistance)

Installation Requirements for FlatGround

Excavation:

  • Pit depth: 90-100cm (full meter) - deepest excavation
  • Entire frame sits below ground
  • Precise level required (0cm tolerance)
  • Total pit dimensions: Trampoline size + 30-40cm margin
  • Massive soil removal (2-3 tons for 12ft)

Drainage System (Absolutely Critical):

  • 20-25cm gravel base layer (thickest)
  • Comprehensive perforated pipe network
  • Essential given depth
  • Most critical factor for FlatGround success

Professional Installation:

  • 99% of customers use professional (most complex installation)
  • 2-4 day installation typically

Why Professional is Essential:

  • Full meter depth excavation requires heavy equipment
  • Perfect flush alignment critical (0cm tolerance)
  • Advanced drainage system essential
  • Mistakes extremely expensive to fix
  • Cost of error far exceeds professional installation cost

Cost Breakdown: FlatGround

Value Analysis:

  • Ultimate premium garden feature
  • Significant property value addition
  • 12-20 year lifespan
  • €160-€558/year cost over 12-20 years
  • Highest initial cost, but premium long-term feature

Is FlatGround Worth the Extra Cost vs InGround?

You Get:

  • Completely flush (0cm vs 10-20cm)
  • Ultimate invisible aesthetic
  • Zero step access
  • Premium property statement

You Sacrifice:

  • Limited safety net options (Sport Mode or XL only - no standard Deluxe)
  • More complex/expensive installation
  • Deeper excavation challenges

Worth It If:

  • ✅ Aesthetics absolutely paramount
  • ✅ Premium contemporary property
  • ✅ Ultimate sophistication desired
  • ✅ Experienced users or adults primarily
  • ✅ Budget allows premium investment

InGround Better If:

  • ✅ Want all safety net options (Comfort, Deluxe, XL)
  • ✅ Family with young children (more net flexibility)
  • ✅ Easier installation preferred
  • ✅ Clay soil area (less depth = less drainage challenge)

Honest Assessment: For most Irish families, InGround offers 85% of FlatGround's benefits at significantly lower cost and complexity. FlatGround is for design-focused buyers wanting absolute maximum aesthetics.


Safety Net Limitation: FlatGround Sport Mode vs XL Only

Important Consideration:

FlatGround Only Available With:

  • Sport Mode (no safety net)
  • Deluxe XL net (210cm professional height)

NOT Available:

  • ❌ Comfort net (entry-level)
  • ❌ Standard Deluxe net (180cm)

Why This Matters:

  • Sport Mode (no net) = experienced users 14+ only
  • Must jump to XL net if want barrier protection
  • XL net excellent but premium price
  • Less flexibility than InGround

For Families: If you have children 6-14 and want standard Deluxe net (180cm), you MUST choose InGround. FlatGround doesn't offer this option.


Detailed Comparison: Above-Ground Trampolines

What You Get with Above-Ground

Practical Benefits:

  • No excavation required: Sits directly on lawn
  • DIY assembly: 2-4 hours with 2 people
  • Relocatable: Can move around garden or to new home
  • Immediate use: Set up same day

Flexibility Benefits:

  • Try before permanent commitment: Test if family uses it
  • Rental properties: Perfect for non-permanent homes
  • Easier maintenance access: Can walk around entire frame
  • Upgradeable: Can add accessories more easily

Safety Net Included:

  • All above-ground BERG trampolines include safety net
  • Full range of options available
  • Standard feature (not optional extra)

Installation Requirements for Above-Ground

Preparation:

  • Level ground preferred (but small variations acceptable)
  • Clear area: trampoline diameter + 2m clearance all around
  • Soft surface ideal (grass, bark, rubber)
  • Underground utility check not required

Assembly:

  • DIY possible: Most families assemble themselves
  • Time: 2-4 hours with 2 adults
  • Tools: Basic tools included
  • Instructions: Clear step-by-step guide
  • Professional assembly available: €150-300 if preferred

No Drainage System:

  • Not required (trampoline sits above ground)
  • Natural rain runoff
  • No pit to manage

Cost Breakdown: Above-Ground

Total Investment:

Value Analysis:

  • Lowest total cost option
  • Relocatable (retains value if you move)
  • No hidden excavation/drainage costs
  • €50-€100/year over 10-year lifespan

Advantages of Above-Ground

1. Easy Installation (DIY Friendly)

Reality:

  • 2-4 hours assembly time
  • No special equipment needed
  • Clear instructions provided
  • Two adults can complete
  • Same-day use possible

Cost Savings:

  • €0 vs €800+ for InGround/FlatGround installation
  • Significant savings for DIY families

2. Flexibility and Relocatability

Benefits:

  • Move around garden to optimize location
  • Take with you if you move home
  • Try different spots
  • Can sell if no longer needed

Perfect For:

  • Rental properties
  • Short-term home ownership
  • Uncertain about long-term use
  • Want flexibility

3. Easier Maintenance Access

Practical Advantages:

  • Walk completely around frame
  • Easy spring inspection/replacement
  • Can slide trampoline to mow underneath
  • Access all components easily
  • No pit to maintain

4. No Drainage Concerns

Simplicity:

  • Sits above ground (rain flows naturally)
  • No drainage system to install or maintain
  • No water accumulation issues
  • One less thing to worry about

5. Lower Total Investment

Financial Benefits:

  • 40-60% lower total cost than InGround/FlatGround
  • No surprise costs
  • Budget-friendly
  • Can invest savings in larger/better quality trampoline

Disadvantages of Above-Ground

1. High Fall Height (100-110cm)

Safety Consideration:

  • Significant fall if someone gets past safety net
  • More intimidating for young children initially
  • Requires ladder access (can be barrier for some)

Mitigation:

  • Proper safety net use essential
  • Adult supervision for young children
  • Quality BERG safety nets very secure
  • One person at a time rule strictly enforced

2. Visual Garden Impact

Aesthetic Reality:

  • Tall visible structure (100cm+ frame + net)
  • Dominates garden visually
  • Cannot hide or minimize presence
  • Traditional "trampoline look"

Not Ideal If:

  • Garden aesthetics top priority
  • Small urban garden (overpowering)
  • Trying to maintain sleek contemporary look
  • Neighbors concerned about visual impact

3. Wind Exposure

Irish Weather Challenge:

  • Tall profile catches wind (100cm+ height)
  • May need anchoring in exposed locations
  • Storm risk in extreme weather
  • More weather-affected than ground-level

Solution:

  • BERG anchor kit available (€55)
  • Anchor in exposed locations (coastal, hilltop)
  • Most Irish gardens fine without anchoring
  • Take down net in severe storm warnings

4. Cannot Achieve Sophisticated Look

Reality:

  • Will always look like traditional trampoline
  • Cannot blend into landscape
  • Prominent garden feature
  • Not suitable for premium contemporary properties wanting minimalist design

Safety Comparison: Which is Safest?

Fall Height Analysis

Above-Ground:

  • Fall height: 100-110cm
  • Significant impact if falls past net
  • Safety net crucial barrier

InGround (Sunken):

  • Fall height: 10-20cm
  • Minimal impact if falls off
  • Much safer than above-ground
  • Safety net still recommended for children

FlatGround (Flush Sunken):

  • Fall height: 0cm (safest possible)
  • Essentially landing on grass
  • Safest fall scenario
  • But no barrier if Sport Mode chosen

Overall Safety Ranking

Safest: InGround with Deluxe XL Safety Net

  • Reduced fall height (10-20cm)
  • Professional tall safety net (210cm)
  • Best combination of both safety features
  • Ideal for families with mixed ages

Second: FlatGround with Deluxe XL Safety Net

  • Zero fall height
  • Professional safety net
  • Excellent for active families

Third: Above-Ground with Deluxe XL Safety Net

  • Good safety net (210cm)
  • But higher fall height (100cm)
  • Still very safe with proper use

Least Safe: Any Configuration with Sport Mode (No Net)

  • Only for experienced users 14+ years
  • Maximum responsibility required
  • Adult supervision essential
  • Not recommended for children under 14

Irish Weather Safety Considerations

Wind Stability:

  1. FlatGround - Best (0cm = no wind catch)
  2. InGround - Excellent (10-20cm = minimal wind)
  3. Above-Ground - Good (requires anchoring in exposed areas)

Winter Conditions:

  • All BERG trampolines designed for year-round outdoor use
  • InGround/FlatGround somewhat protected in pit
  • Above-Ground more exposed but handles Irish winters well

The "Can I Sink My Above-Ground Trampoline?" Question

Short Answer: Don't Do It

While technically possible to dig in a regular above-ground trampoline, we strongly advise against it:


Why Not to Sink Above-Ground Trampolines

1. May Void Warranty

Problem:

  • Above-ground trampolines designed to sit on legs
  • Using differently than designed may invalidate warranty
  • Manufacturer won't cover issues arising from modification

2. Requires 40-50% More Digging

Challenge:

  • Above-ground trampolines need flat-bottomed hole (not bowl-shaped)
  • InGround/FlatGround designed for efficient bowl-shaped excavation
  • Much more soil removal required
  • Risk of sides caving in without retaining wall

3. Inadequate Airflow Design

Performance Issue:

  • Above-ground not designed for below-ground airflow
  • May hear slapping noise when jumping
  • Duller bounce than purpose-built InGround
  • Frame sits too close to ground underneath

4. Frame Not Designed for Ground Contact

Durability Concern:

  • Above-ground frames have standard galvanization
  • InGround/FlatGround frames have enhanced moisture protection
  • Above-ground frames may rust faster when in contact with ground/soil
  • Not covered by warranty

5. Poor Fit and Finish

Aesthetic Result:

  • Frame designed for tall legs, not ground positioning
  • Looks makeshift rather than professional
  • Not the clean aesthetic you're hoping for
  • False economy

The Right Approach

If You Want InGround/FlatGround:

  • Buy purpose-designed BERG InGround or FlatGround model
  • Engineered specifically for below-ground installation
  • Proper bowl-shaped pit (40-50% less digging)
  • Enhanced frame protection for ground contact
  • Optimized airflow design
  • Professional appearance
  • Full warranty coverage

Cost Comparison:

  • Attempting to sink above-ground: €900 trampoline + €800 excavation = €1,700 (poor result)
  • Buying proper InGround: €1,100 trampoline + €800 installation = €1,900 (professional result)

Extra €200 gets you:

  • Purpose-built design
  • Full warranty
  • Professional appearance
  • Proper performance
  • Long-term durability

Decision Framework: Which Should You Choose?

Choose ABOVE-GROUND If:

Renting property (not permanent home)
May move within 5-10 years
Want DIY installation (save money)
Budget is primary concern 
Want to try before permanent commitment
Garden aesthetics not top priority
Want flexibility to relocate in garden
Prefer easier maintenance access
Don't want excavation complexity

Best For: 55% of Irish families - practical, flexible, budget-friendly choice


Choose INGROUND (Sunken) If:

Permanent home ownership (10+ years)
Safety absolute priority (reduced fall height)
Garden aesthetics important (low-profile)
Family with children (want all net options)
Willing to excavate (accept complexity)
Premium garden feature desired
Property value investment mindset
Wind-exposed location (coastal, hilltop)

Best For: 35% of Irish families - best balance of benefits for permanent homes


Choose FLATGROUND (Flush Sunken) If:

Ultimate aesthetics absolute priority
Premium contemporary property
Complete invisibility desired
Experienced users or adults primarily (14+)
✅ Comfortable with Sport Mode OR XL net only
Professional installation accepted (essential)
Want ultimate sophisticated garden feature
Long-term ownership (15-20+ years)

Best For: 10% of Irish families - design-focused premium buyers


Irish Family Use Cases

Case 1: The Rental Family (Dublin Suburb)

Situation:

  • Renting 3-bed semi-detached
  • 2 children aged 7 and 10
  • May buy home in 2-3 years

Recommendation: BERG Favorit 330cm Above-Ground

  • Can take with them when they move
  • DIY assembly (save installation costs)
  • Good quality for 5-10 year ownership
  • Relocatable to new home

Case 2: The Forever Home Family (Cork)

Situation:

  • Own 4-bed detached (forever home)
  • 3 children aged 6, 9, 12
  • Large garden
  • Safety priority

Recommendation: BERG Champion 380cm InGround with Deluxe Net

  • Permanent installation for permanent home
  • Reduced fall height for young children
  • Low-profile garden aesthetics
  • 15-year lifespan covers childhood
  • All safety net options available

Case 3: The Premium Property (Galway)

Situation:

  • Contemporary architect-designed home
  • 2 teenage athletes (14, 16)
  • Garden aesthetics paramount
  • Professional training at home

Recommendation: BERG Elite Ultim 500 FlatGround with XL Net

  • Completely invisible sophisticated design
  • Rectangular for athletic training
  • Professional quality
  • Premium property feature

Case 4: The Budget-Conscious Family (Limerick)

Situation:

  • Young family
  • 2 children under 8
  • Small garden
  • First trampoline

Recommendation: BERG Favorit 270cm Above-Ground

  • Lowest cost option
  • Perfect starter trampoline
  • Easy DIY assembly
  • Can upgrade later if heavily used

Installation Timeline Comparison

Above-Ground:

  • Preparation: 30 minutes (clear area, check level)
  • Assembly: 2-4 hours (2 adults)
  • Total time: Half day
  • Can use: Same day

InGround:

  • Site assessment: 1 hour
  • Excavation: 3-6 hours (mini-digger) or 8-12 hours (manual)
  • Drainage installation: 2-4 hours
  • Frame installation: 2-3 hours
  • Assembly: 2-3 hours
  • Finishing: 1-2 hours
  • Total time: 1-2 days (professional)
  • Can use: Day 2

FlatGround:

  • Site assessment: 1-2 hours
  • Excavation: 4-8 hours (heavy equipment)
  • Drainage installation: 3-5 hours
  • Frame installation: 3-4 hours (precision critical)
  • Assembly: 2-3 hours
  • Finishing: 2-3 hours
  • Total time: 2-4 days (professional essential)
  • Can use: Day 3-4

Maintenance Comparison

Above-Ground:

  • Easier: Full access around frame
  • Weekly: 10 minutes (remove debris, check)
  • Monthly: 20 minutes (springs, padding, net)
  • No drainage maintenance required
  • Can slide to mow underneath

InGround:

  • Moderate: Access good but in pit
  • Weekly: 15 minutes (debris, pit check, drainage)
  • Monthly: 30 minutes (springs, padding, net, pit)
  • Drainage needs periodic clearing
  • Pit edges need grass maintenance
  • Wildlife may access pit (cover or check regularly)

FlatGround:

  • Moderate: Similar to InGround
  • Weekly: 15 minutes (debris, drainage critical)
  • Monthly: 30 minutes (all components, drainage)
  • Drainage absolutely critical to maintain
  • Flush edges need precise grass maintenance
  • Deeper pit may accumulate more water/debris

Winner: Above-Ground (easiest maintenance access)


Common Questions Answered

Q: Which installation type is safest?

A: InGround with safety net is safest overall.

Ranking:

  1. InGround with Deluxe XL net - Reduced fall + tall net ⭐ SAFEST
  2. FlatGround with Deluxe XL net - Zero fall + tall net
  3. Above-Ground with Deluxe XL net - Tall net but higher fall
  4. Any Sport Mode (no net) - Only 0-20cm fall but no barrier

For families with children, InGround with net offers best safety combination.

Q: Can I change my mind? (e.g., add InGround conversion later)

A: No - trampolines are designed for specific installation types.

  • Above-Ground cannot be properly converted to InGround
  • Different frame designs
  • Different pit requirements
  • Would void warranty

Must choose installation type at purchase.

Q: Will InGround/FlatGround drainage really be a problem?

A: YES - drainage is make-or-break for Irish weather.

Without proper drainage:

  • Pit fills with water after rain
  • Trampoline unusable
  • Frame sits in water (rust risk)
  • Mat deteriorates
  • Complete investment failure

Professional drainage system non-negotiable for InGround/FlatGround in Ireland.

Q: Is professional installation worth the cost?

Above-Ground: Optional (DIY works well)

InGround: Strongly recommended (95% choose professional)

  • Excavation, drainage, proper installation
  • Worth it for peace of mind
  • Cost of mistakes exceeds installation cost

FlatGround: Absolutely essential (99% use professional)

  • Most complex installation
  • Perfect flush critical
  • Advanced drainage essential
  • NOT a DIY project

Q: Which holds up best in Irish weather?

A: All BERG trampolines excellent, but differences:

Wind resistance:

  1. FlatGround (best - 0cm profile)
  2. InGround (excellent - 10-20cm profile)
  3. Above-Ground (good - may need anchoring in exposed areas)

Weather protection:

  1. InGround/FlatGround (somewhat protected in pit)
  2. Above-Ground (fully exposed but handles it well)

All are engineered for harsh European weather including Irish conditions.

Q: What about clay soil?

Clay soil common in Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Meath:

For Above-Ground:

  • No issue (sits on top)

For InGround:

  • ⚠️ Advanced drainage essential
  • Clay holds water (poor drainage)
  • Professional installation required

For FlatGround:

  • ⚠️⚠️ Very challenging in clay
  • Deepest pit = worst drainage scenario
  • Professional drainage absolutely critical
  • Consider InGround instead if heavy clay

 


Expert Recommendations

For Most Irish Families:

Our #1 Recommendation: BERG Champion InGround

Why:

  • Best balance of safety, aesthetics, and value
  • Reduced fall height (10-20cm)
  • Low-profile sophisticated look
  • All safety net options available
  • Suitable for all ages (with appropriate net)
  • 15-year lifespan in Irish conditions
  • Adds property value
  • Worth the investment for permanent homes

 


For Budget-Conscious Families:

BERG Favorit Above-Ground

Why:

  • Lowest total cost
  • DIY assembly possible
  • Relocatable if you move
  • Still excellent BERG quality
  • Perfect for first trampoline or uncertain usage

For Premium Properties:

BERG Elite FlatGround with XL Net

Why:

  • Ultimate sophisticated aesthetic
  • Completely invisible design
  • Professional quality
  • Premium garden feature
  • Significant property value addition

 


Final Decision Checklist

Choosing Your Installation Type:

Choose ABOVE-GROUND if 3+ of these apply:

  • [ ] Renting or may move within 5-10 years
  • [ ] Want to DIY assembly
  • [ ] Don't want excavation hassle
  • [ ] Garden aesthetics not critical
  • [ ] Want flexibility to relocate
  • [ ] Prefer easier maintenance

Choose INGROUND if 3+ of these apply:

  • [ ] Permanent home (10+ years)
  • [ ] Safety top priority
  • [ ] Have children 6-14 years
  • [ ] Want low-profile aesthetics
  • [ ] Willing to excavate
  • [ ] Want premium garden feature
  • [ ] All safety net options desired

Choose FLATGROUND if 4+ of these apply:

  • [ ] Ultimate aesthetics absolute priority
  • [ ] Premium contemporary property
  • [ ] Experienced users primarily (14+)
  • [ ] Want completely invisible
  • [ ] Comfortable with Sport Mode or XL only
  • [ ] Long-term ownership (15-20+ years)
  • [ ] Professional installation accepted

Ready to Choose?

Free Expert Consultation

Not sure which installation type is right for your situation? Let's discuss.

📞 Dublin: 01 960 1641
📞 Cork: 021 601 7112
📧 Email: info@trampolinesireland.com

Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm

We'll help you decide:

  • InGround vs FlatGround vs Above-Ground for YOUR garden
  • Soil type assessment and drainage requirements
  • Installation complexity and realistic costs
  • Size and quality level recommendations
  • Honest advice based on your specific situation

We'll tell you if a simpler/cheaper option is better for you.


Shop by Installation Type

[SHOP ABOVE-GROUND TRAMPOLINES →] Traditional installation • DIY friendly • Relocatable

[SHOP INGROUND TRAMPOLINES →] ⭐ MOST POPULAR Low-profile sunken • Reduced fall height • Premium feature

[SHOP FLATGROUND TRAMPOLINES →] Completely flush • Ultimate aesthetics • Luxury feature


Conclusion

Choosing between InGround, FlatGround, and Above-Ground trampolines depends on your specific priorities, budget, and long-term plans.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Above-Ground = Practical, flexible, budget-friendly (55% of buyers)
  2. InGround = Best balance of safety, aesthetics, value (35% of buyers)
  3. FlatGround = Ultimate sophistication for premium properties (10% of buyers)

For permanent homes with safety priority: InGround is the sweet spot

For rental properties or budget priority: Above-Ground is sensible choice

For premium properties wanting invisible aesthetics: FlatGround is worth the investment

Questions? Contact us for honest expert advice tailored to your specific garden, family, and budget.


Trampolines Ireland
Ireland's Official BERG Partner Since 2020
Trusted by 10,000+ Irish Families

📞 Dublin: 01 960 1641
📞 Cork: 021 601 7112

Expert advice on choosing the right installation type for your family.