Installing the mat is one of the most important steps when assembling a new trampoline. The mat (also called the bounce mat or jumping surface) provides the critical bounce factor that gives trampolines their fun appeal and versatility as exercise equipment.
Proper mat installation ensures the mat has the right amount of tautness and stability for safe bouncing. A mat that is too loose can cause tripping or instability when jumping. Overly tight mats can also create problems, causing excessive wear and tear. That’s why following the proper techniques for attaching and securing the mat during assembly is key.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll outline the step-by-step process I use when installing a mat on a brand new trampoline:
- Laying out the mat
- Attaching initial anchor springs
- Systematically attaching successive springs
- Finishing spring attachments
- Securing the safety pad
I’ll also provide some helpful installation tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for optimizing mat stability and tension. Whether you’re a first-time trampoline buyer or simply replacing an old mat, this guide will ensure your mat is installed correctly so you can enjoy safe and fun bouncing on your new trampoline!
How To Install A Mat for a New Trampoline – Step by Step
Step 1: Lay Out the Mat
The first step is to lay the mat out inside the trampoline frame, centering it evenly.
Tips for Proper Mat Positioning:
- Unfold the mat completely and lay it out flat inside the frame. The mat may be stiff at first if it was tightly packed during shipping.
- Orient the mat so the logo and any printed warnings face upwards. This ensures the mat lays flat and evenly.
- Align the mat so it is centered within the frame with even spacing all around the edges.
- For round trampolines, position the mat so the logo lines up with one of the leg poles, facing upwards.
- For square or rectangular mats, align the mat so that it is parallel to the sides of the frame.
- Make sure no part of the mat is overlapping the frame or pulled too tightly in any area.
Properly laying out and centering the mat is the foundation for the rest of the installation process, so take care that alignment is even at this stage. This prevents tension problems down the line.
Step 2: Secure the First 4 Anchor Points
With the mat laid out, it’s time to attach the first 4 springs, which will serve as anchor points.
Steps for Attaching the Initial Springs:
- Locate the 4 outmost V-rings on the mat, positioned at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock.
- Attach a spring to the frame and mat at each of these 4 V-rings.
- For round trampolines, space the 4 initial springs evenly, about 90 degrees apart.
- For square trampolines, attach the springs to the middle V-ring along each side.
- Hook each spring securely through both the mat V-ring and the corresponding hole on the frame.
These first 4 anchored springs provide stability and help distribute tension evenly across the mat as you attach the remaining springs.
Step 3: Systematically Attach Springs in Sequence
With the 4 anchor springs attached, you can now start attaching the remaining springs in sequence, working clockwise or counter-clockwise.
Spring Attachment Sequence:
- Start at one anchor spring and begin counting 3 holes along the frame (“1 hole, 2 holes, 3 holes”).
- Attach the next spring where you land after counting 3 holes.
- From this new spring attachment, count another 3 holes following the same direction and attach another spring.
- Continue in this sequence, attaching a spring every 3 holes after the previous attachment.
- Work clockwise or counter-clockwise around the frame until you have attached springs around the entire mat.
This systematic process ensures even tension across the mat as it is secured in sequence. Attaching springs randomly can lead to uneven tension.
Step 4: Finish Attaching the Remaining Springs
After attaching springs sequentially around the frame, you can then fill in any remaining empty holes.
Finishing Touches for Attaching Springs:
- Work clockwise or counter-clockwise around the frame, attaching springs in any empty holes between previous attachments.
- Continue working around the frame until all holes have a spring attached into the mat.
- Attach the final 4 springs into the anchor point V-rings last, as tension will now be distributed evenly.
- Make sure springs are hooked securely through both the mat V-ring and the frame hole.
Double check that all springs are securely in place and that the mat feels evenly tensioned throughout. Avoid over-stretching in any area.
Step 5: Secure the Safety Pad
The last step is to place the safety pad over the springs and secure it to the mat and frame.
Tips for Attaching the Safety Pad:
- Lay the pad over the trampoline springs and mat, aligning the holes with the frame.
- Attach the pad to the mat using the provided straps, clipping the pad into place.
- For round trampolines, orient the pad so logo aligns with a leg.
- For square trampolines, align the pad’s sides parallel with frame sides.
- Make sure pad is securely attached before use and no gaps expose springs.
The safety pad shields jumpers from the springs and frame, helping prevent injuries. Always secure it properly as the final installation step.
Helpful Mat Installation Tips and Tricks
Beyond the step-by-step process, here are some additional professional tips and tricks I’ve found helpful for properly installing trampoline mats over the years:
Use Spring Pullers
Investing in spring pullers makes attaching the springs much easier. They grip the spring ends and provide leverage when pulling the springs into place. Well worth the small investment!
Wear Gloves
Trampoline springs can pinch skin when pulled taut. Protect your hands by wearing sturdy work gloves during installation.
Attach Anchors First
Always attach the 4 anchor springs spaced evenly around the mat first before installing any others. This evenly distributes tension.
Follow Numbering
On rectangular mats, attach springs sequentially following any numbering system stamped along the edge to ensure proper installation.
Anchor in Sequence
Attach each successive spring 3 holes away from the one before it as you work around the frame to maintain even tension.
Do Final Anchors Last
Attach the final anchor springs last so that tension is fully dispersed throughout the mat already.
Check Tension
Make sure mat feels taut but not overstretched anywhere when done. Even tension is key for safety and stability.
Pad Overlaps Mat
The pad should overlap the mat slightly for full coverage. Any exposed springs can cause injuries.
Summary
Well, there you have it – my complete step-by-step guide to easily installing a mat on your new trampoline! ✅ By following these simple installation steps and handy tips I’ve outlined, you can be sure your trampoline mat will be set up safely and properly for maximum bouncing enjoyment.
Let me know if you have any other trampoline installation questions! I’m always happy to share my years of trampolining experience and mat installation expertise. Understanding the proper techniques for attaching and tensioning the mat is critical for safety, performance and longevity.
I hope this overview gives you the knowledge and confidence to install your new trampoline mat like a pro. Here’s to many hours of joyful jumping on your bouncy new trampoline!
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