Have you ever heard of the in-ground or sunken trampoline? This type of trampoline became a trend recently due to its outstanding benefits that above ground, one cannot offer.
However, is it really that excellent? You may wonder.
We understand your concern. Trampoline is not cheap equipment, and you certainly do not want to bring home the wrong one.
This article aims to provide you an overall view about in-ground trampoline pros and cons, as well as include some useful installation tips.
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In-ground Trampoline Pros
Let’s talk about the advantages first. In-ground trampolines cannot be popular for no reason, right?
1. Safety
It is not completely true to say that sunken trampolines are safer than above-ground ones, but there are fewer risks.
Why so? The in-ground trampolines come with no metal frame, so users will not worry about hitting it after launching themselves in the air.
Also, there is no need to climb up ladders to enter the trampoline. All you need to do is step on the trampoline and have fun bouncing.
Climbing up the stairs is nothing with adults, but the case is different with small kids. Whoever plans to buy a trampoline for their children should consider this factor.
2. Aesthetics
The in-ground models make a subtle change in scenery to your backyard. With a suitable covering, they will blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. Plus, they will not block your views as above-ground do.
What’s more?
Sunken trampoline allows more decorative options, such as placing flower pots or foldable chairs besides.
We do not say that you cannot decorate above-ground trampolines, but it is undoubtedly more complicated. Even the decorations can adversely affect your safety when playing on the trampoline mat.
3. Maintenance
The sunken trampoline offers some crystal-clear benefits when it comes to maintenance.
No worries about your trampoline being blown away due to strong winds. It stays right there for you, even after a tornado.
Also, as the in-ground trampoline is not exposed to weather elements, there will be fewer chances of rusting. Rest assured that you can enjoy its service for a long time.
In-ground Trampoline Cons
Nothing is without drawbacks, and this type of trampoline is no exception. Take a look at some noticeable cons of an in-ground trampoline.
1. Cost
The very first thing that may put you off when considering a sunken trampoline is probably its sky-high cost.
What you have to pay is not for the trampoline alone, but all the installation work to get it ready for jumping. So be prepared!
2. Mobility
Obviously, the trampoline will stay right where you put it at first. Even if you change your mind later, there is no way to relocate the equipment other than going through the entire process of digging and installing.
3. Installation Period
If you feel a thirst for jumping and bouncing right away, do not go for an in-ground trampoline.
You know, it takes a while to install the equipment properly, from digging a hole in the ground, placing the trampoline, and cleaning up the rest. Quite a lot of work!
4. Water Drainage
You need to spend some time on building a drainage system under your trampoline. Otherwise, the equipment will be filled with water every time it rains.
5. Experience
You may have a less joyful jumping experience on a sunken trampoline compared to an above-ground one.
Wonder why? It is all because of air ventilation.
Let us explain thoroughly.
When you jump on the trampoline mat, the air will move away for a strong bounce. As there is limited space underneath and around the in-ground trampoline, the ventilation will be reduced. As a result, you will feel like jumping on a hard surface.
6. Soil Strength
This factor will determine whether you can get a trampoline or not.
If the soil in your backyard is weak, do not ever think of getting an in-ground trampoline. Otherwise, you may place yourself or your children under the risk of accidents.
7. Others
As the trampoline is close to the ground, it will gather more dust and dirt over time.
Your trampoline may have to welcome undesirable guests, for example, your pets. The cats and dogs are likely to scratch the jumping mat or cause severe wear and tear if you leave them unattended.
Moreover, it is possible to trip over the edges of the trampoline and hurt yourself if you do not watch out.
In-Ground VS Above Ground Trampoline: Which Will Win?
There isn’t a right answer as each takes turns winning in different aspects. Let’s take a look.
1. Jumping Experience
The above-ground is the winner, in this case, thanks to the higher bounce rate it provides. In-ground counterparts require some work to achieve the desirable jump.
2. Aesthetic Beauty
The sunken trampoline is a better option when it comes to aesthetics. We already said the reason above.
3. Cost
You may feel tempted to choose the above-ground trampoline as the winner. However, do you consider the maintenance costs?
In-ground trampoline costs quite a fortune due to installation, but it requires less maintenance in the long run.
On the other hand, you need to maintain the traditional trampoline regularly to ensure its service.
So for us, it is a draw this time.
4. Installation
Obviously, we choose the above-ground models when it comes to installation. Both types require some time to set up, but you will need more to prepare for installing a sunken trampoline.
Aside from assembling the equipment, you need time for measuring, creating a drainage system, digging the hole, etc. Specialists are available to lend a helping hand, but of course, you need to pay them money.
5. Safety
Again, there is no winner in this round.
You may find the in-ground trampolines a bit safer, but it is actually not. Each type of trampoline poses different risks to users.
With above-ground, it is to hit the metal frame or the springs.
Meanwhile, accidents may occur when you accidentally trip over the edges of the sunken trampoline or hurt yourself with the debris surrounding it.
And after all, trampolining is all about throwing yourself into the air, so there are always risks when you land on the mat. What you need to do is to equip the trampoline with protective features and follow safety rules.
6. Portability
You can already guess who wins for portability, right?
With a traditional trampoline, you just need to pick it up wherever you want.
However, it is far more challenging to move an in-ground trampoline. It involves a huge hassle of digging and filling the holes. How inconvenient!
In-ground Trampoline Installation Tips
1. Preparation
Before getting down to the task, you need to make some preparations first. Remove the sprinkler heads and pipes in the intended area. Make some adjustments if needed.
Do not forget to check the soil type! Each soil may require different preparations and methods.
2. Ventilation
There are some recommended ways to improve the air ventilation for a bouncy jump on your sunken trampoline.
First off, you can add some large pipes running around the trampoline. With this method, remember to remove the debris clogged in the pipes occasionally.
Having a pit shallower than the trampoline will also help. However, it may lead to tripping accidents. You may want to equip a safety enclosure to avoid this problem.
3. Drainage System
As mentioned above, a drainage system is essential to save your trampoline from rusting due to water and other issues.
We highly recommend perforated drainage pipes. And if possible, you should drain them into a storm drain or a gutter.
4. Elbow Room
Why do we need an elbow room with a trampoline?
Well, it is possible that you might drop something down the hole, a shoe, a toy, or even your car keys! What if there was no space for you to take this stuff out?
Terrible, right? So that is the reason why you should leave some elbow room when installing the trampoline.
More importantly, space will come in handy when you inspect the trampoline for repairs.
To Wrap Up
This is the end of our comprehensive guide to in-ground trampoline pros and cons. We hope the information above is helpful for you when choosing a trampoline to bring home or installing the sunken trampoline in your backyard.
We would love to receive any comments on the topic. And if you have any questions, do not hesitate to leave it in the comment section.
Thank you for reading! Stay tuned for upcoming posts.
My name is Larry Dunn from Dallas Texas and I have a deep passion and love for the trampoline.
With many years of experience in the field of healthcare service, I have decided to start his own website which is about a trampoline.
With this website, I will share his experiences and expertise advices on different factors to consider when deciding whether or not a trampoline is safe for you and your family.