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Winter is hard on everyone – not only mentally, but physically, too. As the wind kicks up and the temps nose dive, people hide indoors and become increasingly couch locked.
As a result, a whole slew of other health problems have become associated with the coldest, snowiest season.
Fortunately for you, you have a trampoline. Even if it isn’t indoors, you’re in luck.
You may be asking yourself: “what if I kept it assembled during the winter months in order to steal a bounce here or there on a nice day?” After all, just 120 minutes of outdoor physical activity a week can have incredible positive effects including:
Good news (everybody)! You absolutely can leave your trampoline assembled for the winter, and likely get a great deal of use out of it too. A MaxAir is able to withstand what winter can dump on it with merely a weather cover for in-ground models; above ground models also should remove their netting between use.
However, there are caveats. Winter comes complete with a wide array of unique issues for both trampoline and bouncer. These risks include:
It’s certainly easier and safer to store your trampoline at the end of autumn if you’re extremely prone to repeated blizzard conditions and record snowfall. If you live in an area with heavy winter winds and a lot of precipitation (or if you and your family don’t intend to get outside much) it’s a good idea to stow your trampoline for the season. Of course, building an overhanging canopy or deck at an appropriate height will allow year-round bounces as well as shade in the hotter seasons.
But under the right conditions (paired with extra maintenance and precautions), you and your family can use your trampoline all year — from a MaxAir Super Tramp to competition web beds, or even a poly bed junktramp or gtramp. Going further, you could even winterproof an outdoor trampwall, add heating elements, or tack on an adjacent quinzee or snow castle!
A MaxAir is constructed with long-term outdoor use in mind (our outdoor and indoor trampolines are comprised of the same components). As a result, each and every part is made of durable materials including:
But be warned – this makes your trampoline durable but not invincible. Frequent exposure to winter weather, excess moisture, and cold temperatures can result in a barrage of problems if no action is taken. Below, we’ll cover the steps to winterizing and caring for your trampoline.
Snow accumulation is, bar none, the largest threat facing your trampoline during the winter. Though it may look like pillow stuffing, snow is actually pretty heavy. Unlike rain, which is runs through the mat, snow will collect on the or causing tears in the mat. This sort of damage is irreversible and can make your trampoline extremely unsafe for use.
This is why leaving your trampoline assembled for the winter means regular maintenance. After every snowfall, the snow should be cleared from the trampoline using a brush or a broom – never a shovel (and don’t you even dare think about that snowblower).
If you’re leaving home for a period of time and no one will be around to clear the snow, consider disassembling the trampoline or at the very least removing the mat. If that’s not a possibility however, you can reduce risk by placing a barrel or similar object underneath the center of the mat to help it support the snow’s weight.
Additionally, users should never bounce while snow is collected on the mat. The weight of the snow, the bouncer, and the jump force will rocket past the weight limit and cause serious damage.
A weather cover makes for an excellent first line of defense against rain, snow, frost, and frigid temperatures. Securing it to your trampoline between every use prevents a lot of unnecessary wear and tear.
That said – like all protective methods – weather covers have their weaknesses.
At least once a week, you should remove your weather cover and dry it out. Aditionally, spring and frame pads are extra vulnerable to moisture which can cause discoloration, ripping, and tearing. The only way to prevent this is to remove the pads and store them for the winter if you lack a weather cover that can handle snow. A MaxAir Trampolines weather cover allows your spring pads to remain attached while safely protecting your entire in-ground packaged kit.
Winter winds can transform an above ground trampoline into a massive kite with barely a moment’s notice. If your trampoline is going to remain outdoors during the winter, you should use in-ground anchors (helix anchors are especially tough and best for areas with high winds). Make sure to fix them early in the season, before the ground freezes.
In our blog about weatherproofing, you can read about other methods to protect your trampoline from strong winds (including strategic landscaping). Of course, an above ground MaxAir doesn’t require the need for anchoring due to its weight and construction — several times heavier and heavier duty than a common backyard trampoline.
While your trampoline is enduring winter weather, its extra important to spot problems early. At least once a week, inspect your trampoline for damage. Small problems can quickly grow into big ones – but a little proactive attention can make repairs and maintenance much easier.
When checking your trampoline, look for:
Never underestimate holes in the mat, no matter how small. These can quickly expand without warning, resulting in injury. Even small holes must be repaired before the trampoline is safe to use. If left uncared for, the mat can quickly be ruined and require replacement. Likewise, a loose or sagging bounce mat is also unsafe and requires replacement because the jumper runs the risk of hitting the ground.
While most winters have plenty of days with weather conditions acceptable to use an outdoor trampoline, it’s important to note that there are also winter weather conditions in which a trampoline should never be used. These include:
Under these conditions, the trampoline will become slippery and injuries are common. Especially in colder weather, black ice can build up an unexpectedly snag the feet out from underneath the user.
If you’re experiencing a particularly harsh winter in which the temperature drops below freezing often, it’s recommended to simply store your trampoline for the season in order to prevent excess wear and tear. But if the season provides at least a few nice, sunny days – you’re good to bounce.
Bear in mind, even milder winter temperatures can still present a number of safety concerns. Before using in the winter, make sure to check the wind chill – it will often be much colder than the actual temperature. When engaged in physical activity, children often wont realize how long they’ve been outdoors and how cold their bodies actually are. When your children use a trampoline in below freezing weather, make sure they come inside frequently to warm up.
Winter clothing may seem cumbersome on a trampoline (especially when the blood gets flowing after a few bounces), but it’s important to remember that skin exposed to to the elements will still suffer the effects of the cold. Always wear hats, gloves, and an extra pair of socks.
A MaxAir Trampoline can withstand most weather, but protecting it from the elements also means protecting your family and your house. MaxAir Trampolines takes pride in the care and attention that we put into our products, and with the proper maintenance and protection, you can experience the best performance and safety. Have fun with your trampolining this winter, but always be safe! For more information on MaxAir Trampolines, feel free to contact us online or call us today at 877-4-MAX-AIR Like. Nothing. Else.
© 2024 MaxAir Trampolines, All Rights Reserved
Web design and digital marketing by Valorous Circle LLC
MaxAir Trampolines is a proud member of IATP and ASTM International.
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