The jumping mat is one of the most important parts of a trampoline, and also one that receives the most stress, so it's normal for it to get worn or damaged over the years. Find out how to recognize a worn-out jumping mat, how to replace it, and what you need to pay special attention to.
Trampolines are designed to last for many years, provided you maintain them properly and follow the manufacturer's instructions. The same goes for high-quality jumping mats, which are made of durable materials and are resistant to environmental factors. Sooner or later, however, there will come a time when you’ll also have to think about replacing the jumping mat.
First signs that the trampoline jumping mat needs replacing
The jumping mat is the part of the trampoline that provides adequate bounce during jumping and significantly impacts safety on the trampoline. The jumping mat must always be in perfect condition, which means we need to pay close attention to any changes.
It’s essential to replace the jumping mat when you notice the following signs of wear:
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The jumping mat is overstretched: When you put too much weight on the trampoline, there’s a strong chance that the jumping mat will overstretch. When this happens the mat no longer provides optimum bounce, which can be dangerous for users. In this case, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
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Loosened seams at the points of contact with the springs: The most heavily burdened part of the jumping mat is the seams, which connect the mat to the springs. As soon as you notice the seams loosening, it's time to change the jumping mat.
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Tears in the jumping mat: Holes or even tears can appear in the jumping mat during use. While small holes can be patched, larger tears are a sign that the jumping mat must be replaced.
Replacing the trampoline jumping mat
If you’ve noticed that it’s time to change your jumping mat, it’s important that you tackle the task the right way. It’s a simple process that can be done in just a few steps:
- Measure the currently used jumping mat.
With a round trampoline jumping mat, its diameter is the key piece of information; with rectangular or square models, you need to know the length and width. Use a tape measure to get the correct measurements. - Choose a good-quality jumping mat that fits your measurements. When you buy a trampoline from a reputable manufacturer, they will also offer you spare parts, including the jumping mat. Finding a suitable jumping mat is much easier and faster this way.
- Once you have your new jumping mat, simply remove the old mat and replace it. Place the jumping mat on the ground and work your way around it, fastening it to each spring. Continue this process until all the springs have been fastened. Make sure that the jumping mat is properly fastened to the springs and that it provides an even tension over the entire surface.
What you need to pay attention to when replacing a trampoline jumping mat
Although changing the jumping mat is easy, there are still some important things to be aware of.
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You should pay particular attention to choosing a mat with the right dimensions. This requires a high degree of measuring precision; in the case of round trampolines, the diameter must also be measured in the appropriate place. Imagine a clock and measure the diameter at the points where the numbers 6 and 12 would be, and then at the points where the numbers 3 and 9 would be.
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In addition to choosing the right size of jumping mat, it’s essential to make sure the replacement is made of quality and certified materials. These are highly durable and contain no toxins, while UV and weather resistance are also extremely important quality criteria. This is the only way to ensure that your new jumping mat will serve you for a long time.
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Always check the quality of the seams. The seams are the most delicate part of the jumping mat, so they must also be weather-proof.
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Once you’ve installed the new jumping mat, double-check that each spring is evenly distributed around the frame and positioned correctly. Make sure that the springs are placed perpendicular to the frame, as this will ensure that the tension of the jumping mat is even.
Our advice will help you replace your old jumping mat with a new one in no time, so you'll be able to enjoy bouncing around in your garden. Last but not least, proper maintenance of your jumping mat will ensure its longevity!
