Have you ever wanted to know how to properly measure a trampoline?
Measuring a trampoline doesn’t have to be hard. Just follow these easy steps, and don’t forget to measure all loops and springs separately. You’ll get the appropriately sized parts in no time! Please remember that all trampolines are different and you should use this as a guideline only.
Contents
Why Measure a Trampoline?
There are a number of reasons why you might need to measure a trampoline.
- If you are buying a used trampoline, you might need to check its size before you purchase it to make sure it will fit in your yard or garden.
- You may be planning on buying a cover, replacement mat or an enclosure and need to check the size of your trampoline to be sure you purchase the right one.
- When buying trampoline replacement parts, like springs, it is good to have the correct measurements. Replacement parts can vary in size from manufacturer to manufacturer to it is important to buy the appropriately sized part.
What do I Need to Measure a Trampoline?
· A steel measuring tape
These are best as they remain rigid and can be used by one person without too much trouble.
· A step-ladder
Really useful if you are measuring an enclosure or enclosure net. Also handy if you need a little bit of height when measuring across a larger trampoline.
· Notebook
Once you have taken each measurement note it down so you won’t forget. Remember to bring a pen or pencil! It is so easy to get ready for a task and then find you have forgotten a pen, and that is really annoying! Some people will find it easier to make notes on their cellphone.
Measuring the Round Trampoline
Before you start your measuring, draw a rough diagram in your notebook. This will help when you make a note of the measurements.
1. Measuring the Diameter
It is a good idea to treat your circle like a world map and measure from north to south, and then from east to west. Other people might prefer to look at it as a clock face and measure from 12 to 6 and then from 9 to 3.
Whichever way you choose, make both measurements. Take them from the outer edge of the metal frame.
The two measurements should be the same. If they are not, then the frame has probably gone slightly out of shape. This is important if you are buying a used trampoline.
In most cases, the measurement should be the same, and that is the diameter of your trampoline.
Standard round trampolines that are not just for kiddies will start at 8ft diameter, and then go up in 2ft stages to 16ft.
If you are buying a trampoline for the first time, run your measuring tape out to 16ft and see just how big that is.
2. Measuring the Height of a Trampoline
If you have a trampoline with an enclosure it might be necessary to measure the overall height at some time. Maybe you want to fit an accessory and need to know that the enclosure is high enough for it.
This method gives you the overall height of the whole trampoline.
3. Measuring the Height of the Trampoline Frame
You can, if needed, measure from the ground to the bottom of the mat frame and then you will know the height of the mat from ground level.
4. Measuring the Width of the Padding
Most trampolines use steel springs to hold the mat to the frame.
These springs are what give the ‘bounce’.
The measure the width of the padding, take a measurement from the outer edge to the edge of the mat.
5. Measuring the Padding Thickness
The thickness is important and is easily measured. The thicker the padding, the more protection users have from harm if they land on the edge of the trampoline. Measure the outer edge of the padding from the top surface to the bottom and you have the thickness.
6. Measuring the Jumping Mat
The jumping mat will be round, so can be measured in the same way as the whole trampoline. Measure the diameter both across from north to south and then across from east to west.
7. Measuring the Enclosure
The measure the height of the enclosure, take a measurement from the point where the enclosure pole is fitted to the trampoline frame to the top of the pole.
In most cases the enclosure sits on top of the trampoline frame, but some manufacturers use different systems of holding the enclosure in place
Some enclosures have rigid poles fitted horizontally between the upright poles and the net hangs from those.
8. Measuring Springs
It is useful to know the length of the steel springs used on your trampoline and also how many are fitted. The springs do sometimes need replacing – particularly if any get lost while in winter storage.
Measuring Square and Rectangular Trampolines
Square trampolines have all sides the same length, and so measuring is simple.
An 8ft x 8ft trampoline should have all sides the same and the mat will also be square. Measure the padding in the same way as described above, along with the height.
Rectangular trampolines will have two short sides of the same length and two long sides of the same length. This applies to the jumping mat too. Padding thickness, enclosure height and frame height are all measured as outlined above.
Measuring Octagonal and Oval Trampolines
Octagonal trampolines can be treated in the same way as round trampolines.
Take your measurements from the points at east and west and north and south just as with around one. Everything else will be the same too.
Conclusion
Overall, measuring a trampoline takes a little time, but the process is relatively simple. Choose your tape measure and calculator, grab your safety gear, get your materials ready, and you’re ready to go. Take a look at the instructions above as a quick reference to help guide you. You probably already know how to measure a trampoline, but if you have any more questions, please feel free to contact us.