Before you commit to the investment of a trampoline, you may wonder, “how long will it last?” It isn’t a cheap buy, after all! Especially if your kids are extra active or if you live in an environment with rough weather conditions, you need to know what to expect from your purchase.
QUICK ANSWER: the average lifespan of a trampoline is 3-8 years.
That’s quite the range, isn’t it? There’s a lot that goes into how long a trampoline can last. Truth be told, a well-cared-for trampoline can last over ten years! What’s the secret to the coveted decade-old investment, you ask? We’ll get there!
In this article, we’ll discuss the average lifespan of a trampoline, its components in detail, and how you can best maintain them. After reading through this guide, you’ll be fully informed on what to expect in the durability of your trampoline!
Lifespan of Trampoline Components
You probably only want to purchase one trampoline for your kid’s childhood. That’s the goal, after all! The key is quality and maintenance to get the most bounce for your buck.
To properly assess the lifespan of a trampoline, we need to divide it into parts. By taking each component into account, we can better understand the weak points and thus the care points that go into trampoline ownership.
Frame
Average lifespan: 10 years.
The frame of a trampoline is typically made with very strong steel. This should last quite a while and is not usually your first concern regarding longevity. As long as it is a good quality brand, that is! Still, it is a good idea to check the frame frequently, especially if you have several kiddos rotating through using the trampoline.
The thicker the frame, the more weight it will be able to handle, and the longer your warranty is likely to be. These are all good signs that the frame is high quality and built to last. Also, ensuring a frame is made with rust-proof material is a must.
Though frames are sturdy and durable, they won’t stand a chance when it comes to high wind. For this reason, it’s very important to anchor down your frame! We’ve all seen the news coverage and neighborhood photos of trampolines rolling down the streets in bad weather. If it happens to yours, your frame won’t stand a chance! Anchor it!
The good news is that if your frame does suffer some damage, there are some very fun recycling projects you can use it for! Like, a hanging plant holder, greenhouse frame, or patio pergola!
Maintenance:
- Keep tabs on all the screws and bolts of the frame. If you notice something is missing, replace it.
- Check for rust spots
- Keep the frame anchored to the ground
- Do not allow the frame to sit in stagnant water, like a large puddle. Pay attention to the placement of your trampoline to avoid too much water exposure.
Jumping Mat
Average lifespan: 2-5 years.
You might’ve guessed that the jumping mat would be the most easily damaged component. You’d be correct! It clearly gets the most use and abuse, being the one contact point of a trampoline. Since mats wear down far quicker than other pieces, this is where you want to focus most of your regular checks and maintenance. However, as it is the area that takes all the use, keep expectations realistic regarding the lifespan of your jumping mat.
As soon as you notice a small tear, patch it! If left too long, the hole will grow and become unfixable. At that point, you’re in for purchasing an entirely new mat. When shopping for a new trampoline or replacement mat, ensure it is UV-resistant and features industrial-strength stitching.
If you’re up for replacing your jumping mat, ensure you purchase the proper size mat for your frame. Measure the diameter of your frame from the 12 o’clock position to the 6 o’clock position. And, if you’re replacing the mat, you can also take the opportunity to replace the springs.
Maintenance:
- Be aware of the warranty of your jumping mat.
- Observe for holes or fraying – you can patch the mat or fully replace it. Focus your inspection around the mat stitching, as this is typically the weakest point.
- Always opt for higher quality when purchasing a new jumping mat for your trampoline.
- Regularly remove debris from the mat.
- A few times a month, wash the mat off with your garden hose.
Springs
Average lifespan: 3-4 years.
The trampoline springs are usually the second thing to wear out with use. Though the jumping mat is the contact point during play, the springs must also accept that constant kinetic energy! Those springs have to stretch out with every jump, then retract again. After some time, they can become stretched out and fail to retract. This can lead to a sagging jumping mat and an ineffective bounce!
Using a pad protector is a great idea to extend the life of your springs and up the safety factor of your trampoline. Plus, it’s far easier to replace a pad than it is to replace a bunch of rusted-out springs!
A new trampoline style offers a spring-free design, touted as being safer and longer lasting than the standard spring-loaded variety. You might consider this style if you’re in the market for an entirely new setup.
Maintenance:
- Observe for signs of rust – you can use a spray lubricant to keep the springs well oiled.
- Observe for springiness! After some time, the springs can get stretched and fail to retract on their own. Time for a replacement!
- Oil up those springs before storing your trampoline for the winter!
Safety Net
Average lifespan: low quality, 1-2 years. High quality, >5 years.
Some trampolines come with safety nets included, while others don’t. We recommend you utilize a net for your trampoline, which significantly increases safety. Though a safety net can often be the most expensive component, it is one of the most vital!
If you’ve got a wiley jumper on your hands, your safety net will likely take a beating. That’ll be it doing its job, after all! Some safety nets even come with an attachable basketball hoop. In that case, your net is certainly up for some stress and use. Make sure your kids understand that they cannot intentionally jump into the net or hang off of it. It’s meant to be a safety boundary, not an extra play surface.
Maintenance:
- Do not hang unintended items from the net
- Check for tears near attachment points
- Observe the condition of the entryway, as it will get lots of use
- Make sure you install the safety net properly
How to Extend the Life of Your Trampoline
It’s all about maintenance! Just like a car, you’ll need to perform regular maintenance on your trampoline to keep it in tip-top shape. Taking good care of it ensures that it remains a safe toy and lasts longer, ultimately getting you more for your dollar!
Here are a few tips to help you keep that trampoline in good working order:
- Always observe for signs of excess wear or damage
- Replace faulty items before they continue to break
- Store your trampoline before inclimate weather and during the winter
- Anchor down the frame to prevent winds from blowing over. You can find anchoring kits for sale online.
- Use a spring pad cover. Not only does this increase the safety of your trampoline, but it also protects springs from the weather.
- Clean it! If your trampoline is under trees, regularly remove debris from the jumping mat and springs. A large broom works well for this. Wash down the mat with soap and water a few times a month.
- Make sure your trampoline is placed well in your yard. The ground should be level and stable – no mud, slopes, or sand!
- Never exceed the weight limit of your trampoline.
Stick to these rules for when your kids are using the trampoline to avoid excess wear:
- No shoes on the trampoline!
- Use a trampoline cover when it is not in use.
- No hanging from the safety net!
- Climb in and out of the trampoline only through the net entryway
- No toys with sharp or pokey bits on the trampoline (stick to things like balls or stuffed animals)
- No pets on the trampoline!
- Do not jump off of the frame
Final Comments
Bottom line, when it comes to trampoline quality, higher is always better! Unfortunately, that means that you are also paying a higher dollar. Maintenance, then, is all the more important for extending the life of your trampoline. The longer lasting your jump is, the longer lasting your fun is!
