Garden Trampolines – With or Without Safety Enclosure

Garden Trampolines for Active Outdoor Play

A trampoline provides an enjoyable way for children and adults to be active outdoors, within the user limits specified for the particular model. Correctly installed, used and maintained, a garden trampoline can become a popular feature for outdoor recreation.

Trampolines are available in different sizes, shapes and configurations. The right trampoline for your garden depends on factors including the available space, intended users, maximum user weight and required safety features.

Which Trampoline Is Right for Your Garden?

Choosing the right trampoline starts with measuring the available space in your garden. Do not measure only the space required for the frame. You should also allow the clear space around and above the trampoline specified in the instructions for the particular model.

When comparing trampolines, consider:

• the dimensions of the trampoline;
• the available space in your garden;
• the age and weight of the intended users;
• the maximum user weight;
• whether a safety enclosure is included or available;
• the safety padding around the jumping area;
• the frame and spring system;
• the required clearance around and above the trampoline;
• the assembly and operating instructions.

Round Trampolines

Round trampolines are a popular choice for domestic gardens and are available in different diameters. This makes it possible to choose a model that suits both the available garden space and your requirements.

A larger trampoline provides a larger jumping area but naturally requires more room. Always check the overall dimensions rather than relying solely on the stated diameter of the jumping area.

Trampoline with Safety Enclosure

A trampoline with a safety enclosure can help reduce the risk of a user leaving the jumping area while bouncing. The enclosure forms a barrier around the jumping area and is therefore an important feature to consider when choosing a garden trampoline.

A safety enclosure does not eliminate all risks associated with trampoline use. Check before use that the enclosure is correctly fitted and undamaged, and always follow the safety instructions for the particular model.

Trampoline Without a Safety Enclosure

Some trampolines are also available without a safety enclosure. Whether this type of trampoline is appropriate depends on the specific model, its installation, intended users and the applicable safety instructions.

Always check which safety features are supplied or required with the trampoline and follow the manufacturer's installation and operating instructions.

What Is a Trampoline Made Of?

A traditional trampoline generally consists of a frame, jumping mat, springs or another suspension system and protective padding. Depending on the model, a safety enclosure, ladder and other accessories may also be included or available separately.

The exact construction, materials and dimensions vary between models. Always check the individual product specifications before making your choice.

Trampoline Frames

The frame provides the main supporting structure of a trampoline. Galvanised steel is used for the frames of various trampoline models to help protect the steel against corrosion.

Galvanising does not make steel completely corrosion-proof. Inspect the frame periodically for damage, wear or corrosion and follow the maintenance instructions supplied with the trampoline.

Trampoline Springs and Jumping Mat

The springs and jumping mat form important parts of the trampoline's bouncing system. The number, length and design of the springs can vary between models and, together with the rest of the construction, affect the characteristics of the trampoline.

Check the springs and jumping mat regularly for wear or damage. Do not continue to use a trampoline when essential components are damaged.

Why Is Trampoline Safety Padding Important?

On traditional spring trampolines, the protective padding covers the area around the jumping mat where the springs and parts of the frame are located. Correctly fitted and undamaged padding is therefore an important part of the trampoline.

Inspect the padding regularly to make sure it remains securely positioned and does not have significant tears, deterioration or other damage.

What Size Trampoline Do I Need?

The right trampoline size depends primarily on your available garden space and the specifications of the chosen model. Measure the proposed location carefully before ordering.

A smaller trampoline may be more practical for a compact garden. If you have more space available, a larger model may be an option. In every case, maintain the required clearance around and above the trampoline.

Where Should I Put a Trampoline?

A trampoline should be installed on a suitable, stable surface in accordance with the product instructions. The location must also provide sufficient clear space around and above the trampoline.

Avoid positioning the trampoline too close to walls, fences, trees or other obstacles where doing so would reduce the required safety clearance.

Can You Sink a Trampoline into the Ground?

A trampoline should only be installed at ground level or in the ground when the particular model and its installation instructions permit this type of installation. A standard above-ground trampoline should not automatically be treated as an in-ground trampoline.

An in-ground installation may require consideration of the space beneath the jumping mat, ventilation, drainage and other model-specific installation requirements.

How to Use a Trampoline Safely

Safer trampoline use starts with correct assembly, adequate clearance and following the instructions supplied with the product. The frame, jumping mat, springs, safety padding and enclosure should also be checked regularly.

Important points include:

• follow the age and weight restrictions for the product;
• observe the permitted number of users;
• use the trampoline only as described in the instructions;
• inspect the trampoline regularly for wear and damage;
• make sure the safety padding is correctly fitted;
• check the safety enclosure where one is fitted;
• keep the required space around and above the trampoline clear;
• provide appropriate supervision for children.

Surface Around a Garden Trampoline

The area surrounding a trampoline should also be considered when planning its location. Keep the specified clearance area free from hard or projecting obstacles and follow the installation instructions for the particular model.

Depending on the application, impact-absorbing surfacing may also be considered. Whether a particular type of rubber safety tile is suitable depends on its specifications, intended use and any relevant critical fall height requirements.

How to Maintain a Trampoline

Regular inspections help identify wear and damage before they become more serious. Check the frame, springs, jumping mat, safety padding, fixings and safety enclosure where fitted.

Replace damaged components when required by the manufacturer's instructions. Follow the recommendations for maintenance, storage and use during different weather conditions for the specific trampoline.

Buying a Trampoline: What Should You Look For?

When buying a trampoline, compare more than just the price and size. The construction, safety features and individual product specifications should also suit your garden and the intended users.

Before buying, check:

• overall dimensions and shape;
• maximum user weight;
• permitted users;
• safety enclosure where required;
• protective padding;
• frame and suspension system;
• required clearance;
• installation method;
• available accessories and replacement parts.

Buy a Garden Trampoline from Intergard

At Intergard you can compare garden trampolines in different sizes and configurations to find a model suitable for your available outdoor space. Check the dimensions, maximum user weight, safety features and included components on the individual product page before ordering.

If you have questions about a particular trampoline, configuration or installation method, contact Intergard for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trampolines

Which trampoline should I buy?

Choose a trampoline according to your available garden space, intended users and the product specifications. Compare the dimensions, maximum user weight, safety features and required clearance before making your choice.

What size trampoline do I need for my garden?

Measure the available area and allow for the required clearance around the trampoline. You can then compare models that can be installed correctly within that space.

Is a trampoline with a safety enclosure safer?

A safety enclosure can help reduce the risk of a user leaving the jumping area while bouncing. It does not eliminate all risks, so correct use, maintenance and appropriate supervision remain important.

Does a trampoline safety enclosure prevent falls?

A safety enclosure is intended to reduce the risk of users leaving the jumping area, but it cannot prevent every accident. It should always be correctly installed and kept in good condition.

How much weight can a trampoline hold?

The maximum user weight varies between trampoline models. Always check the stated weight limit for the particular trampoline and do not exceed it.

How many children can use a trampoline at the same time?

Always follow the user instructions for the particular trampoline. The permitted number of users should not be determined solely by the size of the jumping area.

Can I put a trampoline in the ground?

Only install a trampoline in the ground when the model is designed or specified for this type of installation. Follow the installation instructions carefully, including requirements for ventilation, drainage and clearance beneath the jumping mat.

Can I sink a standard trampoline into the ground?

Not automatically. Standard above-ground trampolines may have different ventilation, structural and clearance requirements, so check the instructions for the particular model.

Where is the best place to put a trampoline?

Choose a suitable, stable location with the required clear space around and above the trampoline. Keep the trampoline away from obstacles where they would interfere with the specified safety clearance.

Can I put a trampoline on paving?

The permitted surface depends on the installation instructions for the particular trampoline. Check the product requirements before deciding where to install it.

What does the padding around a trampoline do?

On traditional spring trampolines, the protective padding covers the area containing the springs and parts of the frame. It should remain securely fitted and be replaced if it becomes seriously damaged.

Are galvanised trampoline frames rust-proof?

No, galvanising helps protect steel against corrosion but does not make it completely rust-proof. Regular inspection and maintenance are still important.

How do I maintain a garden trampoline?

Regularly inspect the frame, springs, jumping mat, safety padding, fixings and enclosure. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and replace damaged parts where necessary.

Can a trampoline stay outside all year?

This depends on the particular trampoline and the manufacturer's instructions. Follow the recommendations for maintenance, storage and use during adverse weather conditions.

Are rubber safety tiles suitable around a trampoline?

This depends on the specifications and intended application of the particular rubber tiles. For impact-absorbing applications, check the relevant product properties and critical fall height requirements.

What should I look for when buying a trampoline?

Consider the size, available space, intended users, maximum user weight, safety features and installation requirements. Compare these specifications for each model before choosing a trampoline.

Are round trampolines suitable for gardens?

Round trampolines are commonly used in domestic gardens and are available in different sizes. Choose a diameter that allows both the trampoline and its required clearance to fit within your available space.