Narrated by Mr. William, written by Ammar Masoud and edited by M Waqas Saeed.
I get asked this question a lot – can you put a trampoline mat made for less springs onto a frame made for more? Based on my extensive experience and research into trampoline safety and function, the short answer is yes, you can install a mat with fewer springs than the frame calls for, but you need to take some important precautions.
Installing a Trampoline Mat With Less Springs Than It’s Made For – Key Cautions
The mat and the springs work together to give you an even bounce across the surface. So if your mat has fewer springs connections, you do risk some weak points and unevenness. However, with care, you can safely install a mat with less springs. Here are the key factors to address:
Distribute Load Properly
Attach the mat so there are more connections and doubled up springs near the middle of each side. Avoid vast gaps between connections on any one area. This evens out the tension across the mat.
Monitor Closely
Carefully watch and feel for ripples, divots or “dead spots” where you sink down further. If certain areas have too much give, add a doubled up spring there. You may need to experiment with the configuration.
Limit Weight and Height
Don’t let as many people use it at one time. The maximum safe weight will be reduced. Also limit how high you bounce until you’re confident it feels evenly taut everywhere. Start small before trying risky flips.
Upgrade Eventually
Consider the mismatch a temporary fix and save up when possible to buy the properly fitting mat and springs. Proper fitting components vastly improve safety on an aging trampoline.
My Experience Putting a 72 Spring Mat on a 96 Spring Frame
When my brother gifted me his old trampoline frame designed for 96 springs, I needed to find a more affordable solution than buying the matching 96 spring mat. Here is what I did:
Frame springs per side | Matched mat springs per side | My spare 72 mat springs per side |
|---|---|---|
16 on ends | 16 on ends | 12 on ends |
32 on sides | 32 on sides | 24 on sides |
To make it work, I doubled up the mat spring connections near the middle of each side, so spacing stayed even. I was careful to start small with low bounces. Over a few weeks, it held up well so I now use it regularly with the mismatch – though I still limit higher bounces and watch for weak spots. I do still plan to upgrade to the proper 96 spring mat eventually.
Key Takeaways If Your Mat Has Fewer Springs
- Distributing load is crucial— double up springs in key areas
- Monitor and limit use to be safe
- Mismatching is temporary; plan to upgrade parts soon
While possible, using fewer springs does require diligence and care to avoid injury or damage. Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions about working with trampoline parts! I’m always happy to share my experience to help others make the best choices for their safe trampoline fun.
Other Related Blogs:
- How to Measure a Rectangle Trampoline Mat?
- How to Measure a Trampoline for a New Mat?
- Why is My Trampoline Mat Loose?
- How To Install A Mat for a New Trampoline?
- Can I Upgrade the Springs and Mat on a Cheaper Trampoline?
FAQs About Mismatching Trampoline Mat Springs
Does having fewer springs mean you can’t flip or do tricks?
Limiting tricks is smart as it puts more weight and pressure in smaller key areas. But with careful setup and monitoring, you may still be able to do simpler flips safely.
Will weather affect it more with fewer springs?
The mat may be more vulnerable to wind, heat and UV damage over time. Check it frequently and pad/disassemble it if extreme weather comes.
How long can I safely keep a mismatch of springs/mat?
It’s hard to put an exact timeline, as it depends on frequency of use, weight of jumpers, etc. But plan to upgrade within 1-2 years for optimal safety.
The short answer remains yes, you can install a trampoline mat with less springs than the frame calls for, by taking key precautions. Distribute load appropriately, monitor closely for weak spots, limit weight/heights, and plan to upgrade components properly long-term. Let me know any other trampoline questions – I’m happy to help!
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