Last Updated on October 13, 2022 by Charlie Nash
A trampoline is an item that you would surely love to have, especially if kids or teenagers are in your house. It may be used for fun and workout, but it could also lead to injuries when not properly installed or anchored.
Anchoring your trampoline can be done in many different ways. However, it would be best if you found the right way for you because it will impact safety and comfort. If not appropriately anchored, there is a risk of injury when your children are using the equipment. This article will give you advice on how to anchor a trampoline.
- Do I Need to Anchor My Trampoline?
- Types of Trampoline Anchors & How to Anchor a Trampoline?
- U-shaped Trampoline Anchors
- Auger or Corkscrew Trampoline Anchors
- U-Shaped vs. Auger Anchors
- How Many Anchors should be Used?
- Can You Anchor a Trampoline on Concrete?
- How to Secure a Trampoline During Hurricane
- Conclusion
Do I Need to Anchor My Trampoline?
Anchoring is not required for all trampolines, but it is recommended. Here are some instances where you may need to anchor your trampoline:
- If you have hard surfaces under the jumping mat (concrete/asphalt/etc.)
- If your backyard consists of uneven ground or hills
- If there are high winds in your area
- If you have a Little Tikes trampoline with the handlebar
Types of Trampoline Anchors & How to Anchor a Trampoline?
How do you choose which anchor is suitable for your trampoline site? Before selecting an anchor solution, several factors need to be considered, including soil conditions, environmental factors, safety, installation method, and cost.
U-shaped Trampoline Anchors
There are many types of trampoline anchors on the market, but none work well as an adequately installed u-shaped anchor. The angled arms of the U securely lock your trampoline in place while being strong enough to support multiple people bouncing at once. Installation is easy and requires few tools.
How to Install U-shaped Anchors
The U-Shaped Trampoline Anchor Kits are an easy way to anchor your trampoline securely. These kits may include four or six substantial galvanized steel stakes, which you can insert into the ground easily using just a hammer and wetting it first before installation so that they have enough grip for securing against winds of at least ten mph. The U-shaped anchors are not as strong and secure, but they don’t have straps like an Auger. Instead, the legs can be secured by steel stakes that will protect your trampoline from high winds if you add cement around them after installation!
Auger or Corkscrew Trampoline Anchors
Auger anchors‘ main feature is that they twist like a corkscrew into the ground. As a result, these types of anchors will not become loose even if your kids use them every day and more than one person is using them at once! In addition, the shape helps create a firmer grip, which means these trampoline anchors won’t fail you.
How to Install Auger or Corkscrew Anchors
Auger or Corkscrew Anchors are placed into the ground outside of your jumping mat. Once you have selected a location, install each anchor as far down into the ground as possible with clockwise rotation. You should insert the auger-shaped anchor at a cross 60-degree angle. You can use your hand or use a hammer only if it’s required.
After all, anchors have been installed, thread your trampoline tie-down straps through the opening of each anchor and attach a hook to both ends. Again, it’s best if one hook has a loop to allow for a quick release feature, and the other has a D-ring to secure the entire system.
Each strap should be attached securely at the anchor point on your trampoline. These straps must support all of the force exerted by jumping, so you should never skimp on quality when it comes to these components.
U-Shaped vs. Auger Anchors
U-shaped anchors are very easy to install. All you need is a hammer to drive them into the ground. With the help of a screwdriver, you can also pull these out of the ground. You will need to put a screwdriver between the trampoline pol and anchor and force it in the opposite direction. Not having a solid grip in the soil is the only drawback. Moreover, with enough force u-shaped anchor will pull out along with your trampoline.
Auger anchors take time to install and a little bit more effort too. Because of the corkscrew design, the grip is solid. If the ground is hard or clay, it is tough to install auger-type anchors.
In places with high winds, you should use both types of anchors to get a more grip and security of your trampoline.
How Many Anchors should be Used?
At least one anchor on each leg of the trampoline is necessary. You can use more than one, but keep a minimum of 3 feet distance between two anchors. Too many anchors at a close distance can soften the soil hence more chances of getting it pulled out.
Can You Anchor a Trampoline on Concrete?
First of all, always put your trampoline on a soft surface, i.e., grass, soft soil, etc. If your trampoline is placed on concrete, you cannot use anchor stakes. However, you can use sandbags to secure it from blowing away. Furthermore, you can install bolts on the solid surface and straps to secure your trampoline.
How to Secure a Trampoline During Hurricane
When you are in high winds area, trampoline anchors become very useful. Unfortunately, hurricanes are a lot more powerful than a storm. Therefore, you must take the following actions to secure your trampoline during Hurricane.
If it’s not too much, you should disassemble your trampoline. Read the guide on how to disassemble a trampoline easily.
If disassembling is not an option for you:
- First of all, remove the safety net. A safety net can damage your trampoline during Hurricane. You should take off the safety net and save it for later.
- Secure the frame solidly to the ground.
- Make sure the legs of the trampoline are firmly placed. Put the anchors in place and make sure to hammer the anchors.
- Use both u-shaped and Auger anchors to make your trampoline more secure.
- Use extra weight to keep your trampoline from flying away. Sandbags can be very useful, and sand can absorb water and get even heavier.
- Another option is moving your trampoline. If you have space, you can move your trampoline indoors without dissembling it.
- Keep your trampoline away from trees. Tree fall can destroy your trampoline.
Conclusion
It does not matter if you are in a windy area or not; security should be paramount. So, anchoring your trampoline is essential in either case. I hope you have got all the answers to how to anchor a trampoline. We have discussed every option to anchor and secure your trampoline. You can use both U-shaped and Auger-type anchors, or sandbags are also an option. Now it’s a question of budget, value, and durability.
Finally, if you are in a windy area, don’t mess with your trampoline. Apply the above-mentioned tips & methods to secure your trampoline and continue having fun with your family!
I have been involved in the world of gymnastics for over 20 years! I started gymnastics when I was 5 years old and excelled in the sport eventually finding a way onto a team where I competed throughout high school and into college. With a passion for gymnastics and specifically Trampolines, I have decided to start a blog TrampolineMag, A trampoline magazine. I will share all the reviews, suggestions, and things I have learned about trampolines to make your trampoline experience fun and safe.