We already know that trampolines are best installed on flat surfaces. Not only are they safer, but they also produce a better bounce. Unfortunately, though, we can’t always guarantee that every available space in our yard will be leveled flat, waiting for us to place our trampolines.
Now the truth is most yards are rarely ever perfectly leveled. But trust me when I say you shouldn’t attempt bouncing on a trampoline if it is placed on a sloped or uneven surface.
A trampoline should never be placed on a sloped yard unless the legs on the upper portion of the slope are trenched into the ground leaving the jumping surface completely level. For larger grade slopes trampoline leveling kits should be used to maintain safety.
Now having said that I know that many people looking to get a trampoline are planning on buying one for a few small kids to use at once and it’s no secret that small kids are rarely able to jump very high even on the best trampolines and thus they pose less risk than teenagers and adults that are able to get much higher into the air.
I know for a fact that some parents get away with placing trampolines on mild slopes when they have small kids but as those children grow bigger and more daring their fear starts to subside, their confidence grows, and their level of risk begins to skyrocket.
Even kid friendly trampolines, you know the small ones, can be dangerous once kids learn how to jump high and lose their fear when those trampolines are on even a slight hill or angle.
So, is there anything that can be done about your sloped yard? Should you forfeit getting a trampoline altogether because there’s no even ground to place it? When does a slope become too dangerous for a trampoline? How dangerous is it installing a trampoline on uneven ground?
I’ll give you a quick “no” for now and then further down this page I’ll expand. You can easily trench in the legs on the high side of the slope and make it safe. Through in some nice under trampoline landscaping and you’ll be happy you jumped in. It will be fun, safe, and look great in your yard.
► Quick Tip: Round trampolines aren’t your only options. See this post for more on selecting a round or an oval trampoline.
Now, with that out of the way let’s look at all of this in greater detail and I’ll even walk you through the process of installing a trampoline even if you have a sloped yard.
Why Should You Go For Even Surfaces?
The risks associated with installing a trampoline on a sloped yard can be scary. Trampolines can pose a danger to you if things don’t go as planned. That’s why it’s better to stick to the rules.
That being said, a sloped ground will cause the trampoline to be unsteady. Worse still, the bouncer wouldn’t be balanced when landing. He/she will gravitate towards the lower edge, which can be dangerous. You could also get seriously injured if the trampoline eventually gives way and falls
Furthermore, it’s dipped positioning can also cause your trampoline mat and/or springs to get worn out and damaged faster. See this post for more on damaged trampoline springs.
► An Idea: If you are shopping for an adult who wants to get some exercise then one alternative may be to buy a small trampoline with a handlebar, they can be slightly safer even if the ground isn’t perfectly level.
Trampoline and Unpaved Surfaces
Yes, you can! The most suitable type of unpaved surface for a trampoline on legs would be grass. This is because it provides a firm yet soft balance while bouncing. Also, grass offers less a damping, thereby allowing the energy to be retained.
Check to confirm that the legs of your trampoline do not sink into the ground. While that shouldn’t be a cause of concern ordinarily, you might want to verify that it doesn’t dip to the side but instead stays steady and straight. Using an anchor can help to achieve this.
You also want to ensure that your trampoline legs are deep into the ground because you don’t want them shifting or worse still falling off when your kids are up and jumping.
See this post for more info on choosing the best trampoline for your family.
How Do You Safely Install A Trampoline On Legs On A Sloped Yard?
First thing you want to ask yourself, is it a suitable spot to install that trampoline? If it is overly slopped, you might want to forfeit that particular place altogether.
If, on the other hand, the slope isn’t too high (not more than a 20% gradient), then you can go on with it. At this point, you want to level the ground as much as possible.
You can start by digging a trench in the ground in order to support the uphill trampoline leg. The downhill leg, which has been anchored into the trench, can then be steadied using timber blocks.
If the surface is really sloped, then the best option might be to cut out a terrace and install your trampoline there.
How Do You Safely Install an In-Ground Trampoline on a Sloped Yard
You already know by now that it’s possible to work your way around slopes. But your technique for installing the trampoline may differ when considering different types of slopes.
For starters, you’ll need to ask yourself the type of slope you’re faced with. Is it small or steeped? Low slopes are not really much of a bother and do not require as much labor to remedy.
#1. Installing An In-ground Trampoline on a Small Slope
All you need do is dig in a little more on the high side and allow the trampoline frame to stick out above the ground at the lower end.
If you so choose to, you can allow your trampoline slope a little as well. Your trampoline must not be laid out perfectly leveled. If it slopes at one or two degrees, it’s still not a bad one.
By the way, you can always pile up the turf and soil on the lower side so that your frame doesn’t end up protruding from the ground. This shouldn’t be a problem as you’ll have enough spare soil to carry out the task.
#2. Installing an In-Ground Trampoline on a Steep Slope
Now, this is where the work is. To install your trampoline on a very steep surface, you’ll need to grade down the higher end to flatten it.
Make sure you grade more than your trampoline size. A few foot more would be just fine. The reason for this is that you don’t want your trampoline immediately to meet the sloped edge. The previously sloped side should come out looking shaped like a crescent if it is graded properly.
Other Things to Note When Installing a Trampoline
#1. You Should Go For Trampoline Anchor
This is beneficial in every way. From being able to hold down the trampoline and keep it from flying off during high winds to steadying the trampoline when the ground is uneven, this one is clearly a winner. A necessity, if there ever was one.
#2. Don’t Use Your Trampoline on Hard Ground
On a normal, the trampoline should be installed on soft ground, somewhere that can take in the impact energy.
You should stay clear of hard surfaces like tarmac or concrete. If these are the only possible option, then you should make an effort to place some kind of soft matting around the trampoline’s entrance area.
You should also try to get some rubber feet to use beneath the U-shaped trampoline legs. This addition will further aid in absorbing the impact energy.
#3. Clear Air Space and Surrounding Space
This is a very. Make sure you don’t install your trampoline directly under a tree as you might have a problem with having to keep off dirt, leaves, debris, and bird poop. To further ensure the safety of your kids, you need to make sure it is far from washing lines and overhead cables.
Asides the air space above, the surrounding area needs to be safe and free as well. Keep your surrounding area free from sharp objects, fixed equipment like climbing frames or swings, mobile equipment like toys or bikes, and also walls and fences.
#4. Buy the Right Size
While the regular 6ft or more full-size trampoline is a good choice, you might want to consider getting a smaller sized one if you have kids below the age of six.
#5. Take Note of Your Trampoline Type
There are different types of trampolines. There’s the in-ground trampoline. This one is usually installed flat and on the ground level. Trampoline, with legs, on the other hand, has a frame that supports it and keeps it standing.
Conclusion
Installing a trampoline on a slope can mean attracting potential danger. It only becomes safe to play on after going through the rigor of remedying the slope. For added protection, you can go to secure your trampoline with a trampoline anchor.
Never take your chances with trampolines. Remember, the rule of the game says, “safety first, fun next.”
