Trampolines are an endless source of entertainment and exercise. There’s just something about being able to jump high into the air, only to bounce right back up again that has attracted kids of all ages ever since the trampoline was invented in the 1930’s. Since that fateful day, the trampoline has been used for many things, including soldier training in World War II, physical rehabilitation for those that have had operations or injuries to their legs, and weight loss workouts for those that need a low impact way to burn calories. No matter what your trampoline means to you, it’s important to make sure that you protect all the trampoline parts, especially in winter time.
Mini trampolines, also called rebounders, are the only kind of trampoline that can be safely used in the house. This is because the mini trampoline has such a small surface area, and can only be used to produce a bounce that is a couple of feet up in the air, at most. However, when you start talking about the larger recreational trampolines, which can be anywhere from eight to sixteen feet in diameter, it’s necessary to use them outdoors where there will be no danger of hitting your head on the ceiling or falling into potentially dangerous furniture.
Keeping your trampoline outside is safer, but it does present come challenges when it comes to taking good care of all the trampoline parts. The trampoline mat in particular can break down quickly when it is repeatedly exposed to rain, UV sunlight, and cold. If you’re going to be keeping your trampoline outdoors in the winter time, it’s necessary to make some storage adjustments so that you can continue to use it year after year.
When you’re getting ready to winterize your trampoline, be sure to check the trampoline cover and trampoline pad for any holes, rips, tears, or frayed spots. It doesn’t make sense to cover the structure if the cover will just let in the weather anyway! Inspect the entire trampolines for parts that might be damaged or rusty, and replace them before storing. Spray the trampoline pad with a vinyl protection spray that will help it to resist any moisture that builds up while it’s in storage. Use bungee cords or rope to make sure the cover and the trampoline it have no chance of blowing away. If a heavy snowfall is likely, you might think about removing the trampoline mat before you place the cover.