How Long do Trampolines Last: Increase The Life Expectancy
If you own a trampoline, there must have been a point in time when you’ve asked yourself — how long does a trampoline last? Does it have a due date? How to know when it’s time to say goodbye to your trampoline? What’s the trampoline life expectancy?
Well, while these sound like pretty straightforward and simple questions, they’re anything but. In fact, there are numerous factors that can have a serious effect on your trampoline. Based on these variables, your trampoline might last for a few years or even as long as a few decades!
So, simply put, we’d say that your trampoline will last for 2 or 3 years before you should start thinking about replacing it. We’ll get into details and variables that may affect its lifespan, so keep on reading!
Trampolines Life Expectancy 101
The Average Life of a Trampoline
Typically, there’s one rule that applies regardless of other factors. The older the trampoline is, the higher the likeliness that you should think about getting a new one. Consider this as a safety facelift. But at what age does your trampoline need a facelift?
It’s extremely hard to say when exactly you should start thinking about replacing your trampoline. As a matter of fact, it might even be impossible! It all depends on what model you have, how often you use it, what’s the general condition of it, if you’re taking care of it properly, etc.
As you can see, it’s not that easy to give you a number here. Basically, the more you use it, the shorter its lifespan will be. Also, the better the quality of your trampoline, the longer it will last!
It all comes down to your own trampolining habits. What we can say, though, is that you should do a routine check-up for eventual tears every now and then. In addition to that, you should examine the springs and the frame for corrosion or rust.
How Long do Trampoline Springs Last?
Trampoline springs have an extremely important role when it comes to tension needed for bouncing. Springs are made out of high-quality, sturdy wire. However, the springs tend to weaken and stretch too much over the years due to frequent usage. In fact, some of them may even break!
Faulty springs inevitably lead to a reduced bouncing effect. Most importantly, they present a hazard and a high risk of injury. That’s why you need to check your springs for rust and control their sturdiness once in a while.
As soon as you notice something wrong with the springs, you have to replace them immediately. Damaged springs will destroy the mat and the padding. And, as we’ve mentioned earlier, they can lead to injuries. So this is not something you want to disregard.
How Long Does a Trampoline Mat Last?
Apart from the springs, the next most important part of the trampoline is its mat. Just think about it — the mat is constantly under pressure due to all the bouncing and jumping. Over time, because of so much pressure, you’ll notice that it’s starting to wear off. You’ll notice that by feeling how there is less bounce in it.
The most common cause of the mat wearing off, besides the weight, is the weather you expose your trampoline to. For instance, being constantly exposed to rain and sun will increase the chance of tearing. In fact, you’ll start seeing tiny spots and holes on your trampoline. Those holes are a sure sign of your mat getting weaker and losing its battle.
Make sure you react as soon as you notice some of these changes on your mat.
How Often Should You Replace Your Trampoline?
We’re assuming you’ve already guessed the answer: It depends! We’re sorry, but it really is like that. We’ve heard so many people asking “How many years does a trampoline last?”
We could say that, roughly, you should replace your trampoline every 3 years. That way, you’ll be sure of its maximum safety and bounce.
However, it might happen that your trampoline has a tear or a loose thread a lot earlier. In that case, we’d say you should get a new one as soon as possible. Alternatively, you might be lucky enough to see that even after 3 years, your trampoline is as good as new. Of course, in that case, you should delay the replacement and enjoy the one you already have.
Why do Trampolines Rip?
For so many reasons! If we begin listing every single reason for any possible ripping of the trampoline, you’ll never be done with this article. But we’ll try listing the major ones, just as a heads-up. So let’s tackle the most frequent questions:
How Long Does a Trampoline Last in The Sun?
For instance, the lack of UV rays resistance would be the number one reason for the ripping. Constant sunshine is a real nemesis of trampolines. Yes, trampolines are made for having fun in the sun. But you’re the one having fun while your trampoline isn’t.
How Long Does a Trampoline Last Outside?
It depends on the weather. In any case, harsh conditions can definitely leave some scarring on the mat.
How Much Can Weight Affect The Mat and The Padding?
Your trampoline can rip because of too much weight on it. If you exceed the jumping limit weight-wise, the trampoline will punish you with a ripped mat. Simple as that.
Can the Quality of the Mat Cause Ripping?
Another cause of ripping can be the quality of the fibers of the mat. That’s why you should consider spending a couple of bucks more on a high-quality trampoline. Better spend more now than buy a whole new trampoline once again, right?
