Why do some trampoline frames rust through quickly?
The trampoline frame is a load-bearing structure, therefore, you want it to be rust-proof in order to ensure the safety of your family. A rusted structure is weakened and in order to prolong the life of your trampoline you need to take as many precautions as possible against humidity and acidic soil.
We often hear from customers who inform us that their trampoline rusted out at the bottom of the legs in an unreasonable amount of time. Generally, they are wanting assurance that the next trampoline they purchase won't have this rust problem.
When this issue is raised we always ask our customers a few more questions, this is the best way for us to learn and know as much about the frustrations that people experience having a trampoline. For most people, a trampoline is an expensive gift for their kids or inclusion in their backyard landscape plans. We want them to last as long as possible.
We do know that our own family rectangle trampoline lasted from when I was a kid to us having our own family so we know that they can last 30+ years. My childhood trampoline was likely made of good quality Australian steel not the Australian/Chinese mix that is dominating our markets today.
A round trampoline frame is likely to last 5-10 years and all rectangle trampoline should last 10 years+ but it does really depend on the frame thickness and structural design as well.
What influence does frame thickness have?
Department stores in the late 1980s early 1990s introduced round trampolines with a very thin frame tubing diameter and steel thickness compared to what we had all experienced with the well known, earlier rectangle trampolines. The new round trampolines were much cheaper to make and to ship, as they weighed less and packaged smaller. They suit the department store model very well.
Why does a rectangle trampoline have a thicker frame than a round trampoline?
A rectangle trampoline by its shape with long straight sides does need to have thicker steel to hold the frame rigid and withstand the huge forces from the impact of jumping to ensure there is no bowing of the frame.
A round trampoline by the nature of its circular shape has greater strength and some compromise of steel thickness can be taken for achieving a similar user weight capacity.
What is a normal trampoline frame thickness?
Typically the early rectangle trampolines were 6 cm diameter frame tubing and 2.5 mm thick. The new round trampolines were 3 cm in diameter and as thin as 1.2 mm.
This variance in metal thickness and tubing diameter of early round trampolines having 1.2 mm thick steel - rectangles having 2.5 mm; doesn't look like much but it is a very big impact in how long the frame will last in the elements but it is the difference of 5 years or more.
Today; department stores have increased their frame steel thickness to 1.5 mm, however, most good independent importers have round trampolines with 2 mm thick steel. This isn't something that is visual but it is what impacts the life and strength of the trampoline more than anything else.
What else does having a thin steel frame mean?
Thin tubing of round trampoline frames has always been a common thing. This is often the cause of the springs tearing through the hole in the frame when the weight limit is maxed out.
Thin framed trampolines are more prone to be being air-lifted in high winds and collapsing under the weight capacity.
Does soil have an impact on the life of the frame?
Yes, if the soil is acidic you are more likely to have a rust issue with the underside of your trampoline legs. If you know from the get-go that you have highly acidic soil then you may want to follow some of the tips below.
Trampoline frame steel finishes
Before you buy a trampoline, make sure to buy one that is properly galvanised. Ideally, it should be galvanised both on the inside and outside, as trampolines can retain water in their interior through condensation or water just leaking in at the joins or spring holes. Investing in a trampoline that has galvanised or stainless steel screws and fittings is also a good way to ensure a longer life from your trampoline.
Powder coating can be good but only if the steel is also galvanised under the powder coating. This is because the coating will chip and wear with scratches over time and the metal underneath becomes very vulnerable, especially without galvanising protection.
How to avoid the early onset of rust.
- You can line the ground with a thick PVC/carpet before setting up your trampoline
- You need to make sure the lining will stay firmly in place and anchor the trampoline as well, to avoid slips
- You can also paint the legs of the trampoline with anti-rust paint to increase your chances of keeping the frame rust-free
- Position the trampoline on soft materials
- Build the trampoline on synthetic grass
- If after checking you find that your trampoline frame is holding water you can drill small holes low to the ground in the legs to allow water to drain out
Before buying a trampoline
If you are yet to purchase your trampoline then be sure to check the specifications on the frame and ask the supplier about the galvanising finish, especially if you know you have acidic soil. If you purchase a trampoline with quality galvanising and thicker frame diameter and steel thickness, it will have a longer life. Team the trampoline up with some tips above and your family trampoline frame will last a lot longer.
Overall, when comparing trampolines include the metal thickness of the frame in your price comparisons as it does make a difference. It is well worth investing a little more to ensure it remains rust proof as long as possible, especially if your family is still young.
If you have any other questions about this article please message here or phone (03) 5292 1100 us so we can help you further. You can scroll down for more articles around trampoline care.
