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:
- FlatGround - Best (0cm = no wind catch)
- InGround - Excellent (10-20cm = minimal wind)
- 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:
- InGround with Deluxe XL net - Reduced fall + tall net ⭐ SAFEST
- FlatGround with Deluxe XL net - Zero fall + tall net
- Above-Ground with Deluxe XL net - Tall net but higher fall
- 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:
- FlatGround (best - 0cm profile)
- InGround (excellent - 10-20cm profile)
- Above-Ground (good - may need anchoring in exposed areas)
Weather protection:
- InGround/FlatGround (somewhat protected in pit)
- 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:
- Above-Ground = Practical, flexible, budget-friendly (55% of buyers)
- InGround = Best balance of safety, aesthetics, value (35% of buyers)
- 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
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Expert advice on choosing the right installation type for your family.