While trampolines are durable and designed to last for years, wear and tear and damage can leave you needing to replace them. But how do you know when it’s time to replace your trampoline?

It can be challenging to know when it’s time to part with your trampoline, and that’s why we are here today! Below, we have detailed the 5 signs that your trampoline needs replacing to help you keep your children safe while they bounce.

Visible Wear and Tear

One of the most obvious signs that your trampoline needs replacing is visible wear and tear. Wear and tear can be easy to spot, allowing you to inspect your trampoline and see areas of damage that need to be addressed. Some of the wear and tear can be repaired, but in most cases, the trampoline must be replaced. We have listed the most common wear and tear you can expect on a trampoline below:

• Missing, damaged, or worn springs and pads – if the thick pads that cover your springs are missing, bent, or torn, then there is a safety risk to you and your children. Exposed or damaged springs can cause cuts, pinch points, and hard impacts, leaving your children with injuries.
• Broken or warped frame – metal frames on the trampolines can bend or warp, making the trampoline unstable and dangerous
• Sagging or damage to the safety netting – the netting around your trampoline can deteriorate over time, with holes, stretched, or torn. This can prevent the net from doing its job, catching bouncers before they fall off the trampoline.
• Holes, tears, and frays on the jumping mat – the mat can eventually wear out and should you see any tears, punctures, or undone stitching, it must not be used, to prevent serious injuries to your children.
• Rust or corrosion – can be found on the metal parts of your trampoline, weakening the structure of the trampoline and increasing the chance of injuries.

You should check your trampoline regularly to look for signs of visible wear and tear. If you spot any signs of wear and tear, stop using the trampoline immediately. Any of the signs we have outlined will usually mean the trampoline needs replacing, but you can speak to your trampoline manufacturer to see if there are any repairs that can be performed.

Unstable Legs or Frame

If you have any unstable legs or frames on your trampoline, I suggest it’s time to replace them. Unsteady frames are dangerous, as they won’t provide the same support, and you could fall off or struggle to maintain your balance on the trampoline.

The trampoline should be inspected regularly for signs of corrosion or rust around the legs. Pay attention to where the legs connect to the frame. Rust will weaken the metal and can make the legs unstable or cause them to break. Should you notice that the trampoline rocks from side to side when pushed, then there is an issue with the legs, and they are not providing the support the trampoline needs. Not only could your child fall and injure themselves on the springs, but the trampoline could topple over, injuring others nearby!

Sagging or Weak Trampoline Springs

Most trampolines will feature springs, unless you opt for a spring-free design. These springs must be inspected regularly for signs of any weakness or sagging. When these springs lose tension, they don’t perform as they should and make the trampoline dangerous.

The bounce might feel off or uneven, like the mat is sloping to one side. Weak trampoline springs can also make your jumps feel heavier, as if the springs aren’t propelling you like before. You might also notice the springs look different, too, appearing stretched out or misshapen.

To test that your trampoline springs are functioning correctly, give them a firm tug. If the springs feel evenly tensioned and taut, you don’t need to worry. Damaged or sagging springs will feel different, and you should stop using the trampoline immediately. Not only can it impact the bounce, but the padding and netting won’t be properly tensioned or supported, increasing the chances of gaps and tears forming, where you could hit the frame or springs, causing a serious injury.

Damaged Safety Enclosures

Most trampolines will come with a safety enclosure around them, made of net. The netting needs to be inspected regularly to ensure your children are safe. Any damage to the net is a sign that it needs replacing. When inspecting your trampoline enclosure, look for the following:

• Holes and tears – even the smallest of holes can be a hazard. Inspect the area for any holes or tears, especially where the netting attaches to the poles or the trampoline mat
• UV damage – constant exposure to the sun’s rays can cause the netting to weaken over time, becoming brittle and fading. The netting needs to have good elasticity and stretch tightly over the mat. If it does not then it is time to replace it
• Zips and attachments – any damage to the zips, clips, or straps that secure the netting to the trampoline can be dangerous. These attachments need to be free from damage and keep the netting in place to ensure the netting does not come loose or move away from the trampoline while your children are bouncing

The Ages of The Trampoline

Finally, you need to consider the age of the trampoline. Most trampolines will start to deteriorate after five or ten years, with manufacturers recommending replacing your trampoline every five to ten years.

Over time, the mat and springs can become worn out or saggy, and the frame can start to rust. Replacing your trampoline before these issues become severe will ensure that your children are safe and injury-free while they bounce. When your trampoline reaches this age, conduct regular inspections and replace it if you notice any of the following:

• Parts are visibly damaged, dented, or bent
• The trampoline makes grinding, squeaking, or creaking noises when used
• The netting or mat has rips, holes, or tears
• The frame has visible signs of corrosion or rust
• The padding around the springs is missing or damaged
• The mat or springs feel loose or saggy

Replace Your Trampoline with Vuly Play Today

Now that you know the five signs that your trampoline needs replacing, it’s time to closely look at your trampoline and decide if it’s time for a replacement. When purchasing your replacement trampoline, we recommend checking out Vuly Play, which offers an impressive range of trampolines to suit every budget. Not only are their trampolines suitable for everyone, but they also come with impressive warranties that protect you against most damage. Choose your Vuly Play trampoline today!