Backyard trampolines are a popular outdoor activity for children and adults. They are a healthy form of play and exercise that everyone can enjoy, provided the proper safety precautions are observed. A common problem that many trampoline owners have is that inclement weather can impact a trampoline’s integrity. The large mat can act as a sail if the winds are strong enough, and before you know it, you’ll find your trampoline in your neighbor’s yard. By the way, if you’re currently searching for a new trampoline, take a look at our review of the Merax 14-ft trampoline to see how it compares.
To keep your trampoline secure, even in high winds, you must ensure it is anchored firmly to the ground. Below you will find the correct procedures to anchor your trampoline to withstand almost any weather conditions, so you can continue to do fun things on your trampoline without interruption.
Securing Your Trampoline
Tools and Materials Required
Trampoline wind anchor kit
If an Anchor Kit is not Available
4-star pickets
4 ratchet straps
Metal sledgehammer
Tape measure
Trampoline Anchor Kits
If you have purchased a trampoline anchor kit (available at Amazon), the job is much easier as most of the tools are included in the kit. Ensure you follow the provided instructions, as most anchor kits have different procedures to secure a trampoline. While the basic idea is still the same (use stakes or tie-downs to anchor the trampoline), some require slightly different actions.
If you don’t have a trampoline anchor kit, you can substitute 4-star pickets and ratchet straps to anchor your trampoline. Find the procedure to secure the trampoline without an anchor kit below.
Step-by-step Procedures
Measure and Mark
Start out by measuring and marking the dimensions from the inside leg of the trampoline. Mark an area approximately 1 – 1.5 feet from the inside leg. This is to create room for the trampoline to expand and anchor firmly on the ground. Use a tape measure to accurately measure the dimensions of the trampoline.
Install the Stakes (Picket)
Now move ahead to install the picket. Hammer this picket into the ground at an angle of 60°. Continue hammering until the top is about an inch from the ground. Fit the cap (if applicable) atop the picket as soon as it is completely anchored into the ground.
Hook and Loop
Hook and loop the trampoline appropriately. Wrap the strap around and about the upper frame of the ring where they attach. Then, create a closed-loop by inserting one end of the strap through a loop, attaching it to the other end of the strap. Be sure that the attachment is firm and tight-fitting to prevent the strap from becoming loose.
Install the Ratchet
Install the ratchet in the star picket. Do this by hooking the end of the ratchet through the hole in the picket. Proceed to thread the loose end of the strap into the ratchet. Test the system to see to it that is appropriately fastened and that there are no loose ends.
Tighten and Repeat
In this last step, you should tighten the ratchet until such a time that the strap is under complete tension. Be sure though that you do not over-tighten it as that may possibly break it apart under too much tension. Repeat the above procedure for each picket/ratchet. There should be at least 1 picket anchor for each set of legs. Attaching additional anchors is advisable if you anticipate high winds.
Test the System
Though not mandatory, it is a good idea to test the system prior to usage. You may, for instance, blow some strong gusts of winds, using a box fan, to the tarp and note how it operates. Then, make some changes or alterations as need be and in line with the necessary requirements. If you do not have a strong enough fan, simple pushing and pulling on the trampoline will provide an idea of how it will act during inclement weather.
TIPS AND TRICKS
TIPS AND TRICKSAnchoring your trampoline isn’t the only thing you can do to ensure your trampoline is secure. To further protect your trampoline from windy conditions, read the below tips to ensure your trampoline is always firmly planted on the ground. Protecting your lawn from a trampoline is equally important, so ensure the proper steps are taken.
Use Sandbags
Make use of trampoline sandbags. These give more weight and make the anchoring more firm. Simply laying the sandbags over the legs works fine. They work well in providing additional weight to keep your trampoline anchored during harsh winds.
Trampoline Skirts
Trampoline skirts act to lower the force and the fierceness of the oncoming winds. Thus, they stop the winds from getting under the trampoline mat and possibly lifting it up. In so doing, they secure the mat and make the trampoline heavily resistant to possible strong winds.
Lower or Remove the Nets After Use
The safety nets act much the same way a sail ordinarily does. They trap the winds and cause them to blow the entire item in a particular direction. Thus, you should also contemplate lowering or removing them altogether when high winds are expected or if the trampoline won’t be used for an extended period.
Dismantle the Trampoline
If the oncoming weather is too harsh, you may also think of dismantling the entire trampoline altogether. This is especially recommended for those harsh weather patterns that have the tendency to bring about irreversible damages. These include hurricanes, tropical storms, or tornados.
CONCLUSION
Having a trampoline in your backyard is an excellent source of entertainment for the whole family. Preparing for inclement weather is essential in ensuring your trampoline continues to perform like it’s new. High winds are notorious haters of trampolines. One of the best preparations you can make on any trampoline is ensuring it is properly anchored to the ground to prevent high winds from impacting its position (see How to Keep a Trampoline from Blowing Away for more tips). Fortunately, anchoring your trampoline to the ground is a simple task that can be accomplished in a matter of minutes. Do yourself a favor and anchor your trampoline to save you money, time, and the headache of buying a new trampoline when a storm comes rolling in.
