So, you want to learn how to bury a trampoline? This is the latest in safety for trampolines and is one step beyond getting an enclosure.
Trampoline measures have improved since these bouncy platforms emerged. You can buy various nets and enclosures to protect your kids from falling off. Now you can also bury the trampoline in the ground. This way there is nowhere to fall.
Step 1: Select the area you plan to have the trampoline and mark with spray paint a circumference all the way around the trampoline that is a few inches bigger than your trampoline. If your trampoline is 15ft round, paint a line that is 18 ft round.
Step 2: Dig a hole that is deep enough to fit your trampoline and angles up the side. Let the trampoline sit up a few inches above the ground for ventilation.
Step 4: Add a sump pump or drainage system in order to remove rainwater. This step is optional but recommended.
Step 5: Place your trampoline inside the hole.
Step 6: Backfill around your trampoline with the dirt you dug out in step 2.
Learning how to bury a trampoline is easier than you may think. And the work will be worth it. The digging of the hole is the most challenging part, but it is also a great way for parents to get exercise.
With our guide you will learn how to bury a trampoline and get answers to all your in-ground trampoline questions. Let’s get digging, and then get bouncing.
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How To Bury A Trampoline In The Ground
There are benefits to burying your trampoline in the ground. They are safe because the falling risk is significantly reduced. They are also easier for smaller kids to access and they are not as intrusive in your yard.
We also have a few top picks for you to look at, because we want you to get the safest and best for bouncy fun
How Do You Sink A Trampoline In The Ground
The first step of the project is the hole. You need to mark out the area where you plan to have the trampoline. The hole will need to be carefully planned, as it must be just the right size.
For round trampolines, secure a tape measure to a central point and mark the circumference out by moving around in a circle from this point. Use spray paint to make your marks.
Time to learn how to bury a trampoline. First, you start digging. You can use a mechanical digger or dig by hand. You can even hire a local contractor to do this for you if it is not too expensive. Plan to do the digging when it is dry, as it will be easier.
You want to keep the topsoil (the first foot of soil you dig). The subsoil needs to be kept in a hidden area; in case the hole needs to be filled in again at a later time.
You also need to consider the integrity of the hole. If the soil is not firm, then you will probably need additional support. Subsoil can often be sandy, and this will require an underground wall support system.
If you decide not to leave a 4” gap for air flow, then you can install a pipe to allow air to escape when jumping. After the hole is secured, install 4 lengths of 4-inch pipe (flexible) just beneath the surface. The pipe needs to travel to a short distance away from the trampoline.
Many people like to install a donut or raised ring. It obscures the trampoline slightly and it is fun for kids to jump from the ring to the trampoline. You build the donut using the soil you removed earlier. Put soil around the trampoline forming slopes on each side and a flat top.
You may want to consider getting a safety net too. Even though the trampoline is not far from the ground, an enclosure will only enhance safety. You can still jump pretty high and the net will help keep the kids contained to a safe landing area.
After you have the trampoline set, we recommend landscaping around it. Being in-ground means it can blend nicely with your yard, so make it more attractive. You can make a patio around the trampoline or pour a gravel garden.
However you decide to landscape, the in-ground trampolines are definitely more pleasing to the eye than their above ground counterparts.
How Deep Should A Trampoline Be In The Ground
Before you decide how to bury a trampoline, you need to figure out where it will go. Hole specifications are important. The depth of the hole will need to be the same as the height of the trampoline.
You can leave about 4 inches in addition to this, to allow air to escape as kids bounce. This can create a trip hazard, so is ultimately up to you if you want to include this.
In-Ground Trampoline Drainage
In-ground trampolines must have drainage. The hole below the trampoline can fill up if it rains or whenever the garden is watered. If the soil becomes too waterlogged the trampoline can sink. You can avoid this by allowing for drainage.
The best way to achieve this is by installing a sump pump (link to Amazon). These can vary in price, but you can get an affordable one from Amazon that will take care of any water that pools under your trampoline.
In Ground Trampoline Pros And Cons
It is important to note that in-ground trampolines still have dangers. The risk of falling is less than with regular trampolines, but this does not mean they are safer. A trampoline still launches kids very high into the air, and a fall from this height on any surface can cause injury.
There are also the additional considerations that come with in-ground trampolines. You must carefully measure the hole. Any wrong measurements can cause additional work. You also need to account for drainage.
The overall cost may be cheaper than buying a trampoline and enclosure net, but you have to put in more work.
Many people think maintenance is easier with in-ground trampolines because you don’t see the parts. This is a misconception. In-ground trampolines require regular maintenance too.
They always need to remain upright, and you need to make sure poles do not poke through the stoppers.
There are significant benefits to in-ground trampolines. The risk of falling is reduced. These trampolines are definitely easier for younger children to use. You can always add stairs to the above ground versions, but even this can be a struggle for small children.
Above ground trampolines also take up a lot of the yard and can block the garden view. They also cover grass from getting sunlight. When they are in the ground, the yard is more aesthetically pleasing.
They leave more options for you in terms of creating an attractive backyard.
Can You Bury A Regular Trampoline
A normal trampoline can absolutely be put in the ground. In most cases you will need to install a retaining wall around this to support the trampoline. Make sure you have the correct measurements to dig an appropriately sized hole and don’t forget about drainage.
Next, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages for in-ground trampolines.
How Much Does It Cost To Put A Trampoline In The Ground
Along with how to bury your own trampoline, you might also consider buying an already made in-ground trampoline. The cost will depend on size as well as brand.
On average the cost of an in-ground trampoline ranges from $500 to $2000. You also need to account for excavation costs and any labor you pay for. You will also have to buy parts such as a sump pump.
The price will also be influenced by materials used. Galvanized steel frames are long-lasting but more expensive.
Are In Ground Trampolines Safer
The simple answer to this is no. While the risk of falling is reduced with in-ground trampolines, there are still risks. Trampolines have the same dangers regardless of size and style.
With any trampoline, you want to make sure kids are supervised when playing and always take necessary precautions for safety.
Are In Ground Trampolines Better
An in-ground trampoline is less visible which means you can still enjoy your garden. You also do not need an enclosure or net which can also be an eyesore in the yard. Your kids have significantly less risk of falling off.
There is also no need to move the trampoline each time you need to mow the lawn, which can be a big hassle with regular trampolines.
In Ground Trampolines: Our Top Picks
You know how to bury a trampoline, and all the important steps for proper installation. Now you need to choose the right trampoline. You can always bury an above-ground trampoline, but there are also in-ground ones you can buy on Amazon.
1. In-Ground Trampoline Stainless Steel – Best Overall
In-Ground Trampoline Stainless Steel on Amazon is designed to last a long time. The stainless-steel rings are good quality and will not let you down. Installation for this trampoline is easier than most as there is not much digging needed.
You do pay a little more for this convenience though. The heavy-duty frame is perfect for long-term use and you get twenty times more airflow than you do with a regular trampoline.
The unique bungee system keeps safety pads in place and reduces stress on the seams. You also get to choose from grey, green, or blue.
What I like:
- More bounce than other ground trampolines
- Different colors available
- Highly durable and long-lasting
- Quick and easy setup
- Optimal air flow
What I don’t like:
- A little pricey
2. Avyna Pro-Line In-Ground Trampoline – Runner Up
Avyna Pro-Line In-Ground Trampoline on Amazon is one of the top names in safety for in-ground trampolines. There are no gaps with this trampoline between the perimeter and edge. You also do not need a large area for installation.
There is no change of hands or feet getting caught with this model and all protruding parts are covered with caps. The fastening clips also have plastic coatings, making this one of the safest in-ground trampolines on the market.
What I like:
- Easy to install
- Provides sitting area for jumpers
- Highly durable
- High weight capacity (fun for adults too)
- Extra springs for really good bounce
What I don’t like:
- Only comes in one size
- Only comes in one color
3. BERG Trampoline In-Ground Champion With Safety Enclosure
For those who want the additional safety of a net, BERG Trampoline In-ground Champion With Safety Enclosure (link to Amazon) is our top pick. And it is affordable. The strong frame exceeds safety standards and the galvanized steel frame is highly durable.
You can get this trampoline in two different sizes Safety poles and springs are made of long-lasting steel and safety pads keep your kids safe. The springs will not rust and deliver a great bounce. Access to the trampoline is easy thanks to the zipper entrance.
What I like:
- 5-year warranty on frame and 180-day warranty on other parts
- Affordable price range
- High quality and durable materials
- Great weight limit (200lbs)
- Safety enclosure included
- Aesthetically appealing
What I don’t like:
- Smaller in size
Helpful Tips On How To Bury A Trampoline
There are a few things to consider before burying your trampoline. You already know you will be digging, so you need to consider how big the hole will need to be. A few helpful tips to remember are:
- Remember that you may need to get under the trampoline for items that get stuck underneath
- Consider hiring professional diggers to get safer grounds and retaining wall properly installed
- Don’t forget drainage and consider adding a sump pump
- Ventilation is important to release air from underneath
- Decide if you want to leave additional space or not (it helps with air flow but creates a tripping risk).
Final Thoughts
In-ground trampolines are definitely safer because they reduce the risk of falling. Care still needs to be taken as the risk of injury is still present with any trampoline.
These trampolines are more aesthetically pleasing and allow you to enjoy your garden view. They blend in well with the garden and you can landscape around it as you please.
You know you want to get an in-ground trampoline and we have helped you learn how to bury a trampoline. Just remember, that these are not easy to set up and effort will be required.
With the top picks we recommend however, the work will be worth it. You will get a durable in-ground trampoline for years and years of fun.