What to Put Under a Trampoline? Safe Surfaces!

Figuring out what to put under a trampoline isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial safety consideration. Trampoline accidents, a significant concern highlighted by organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, often involve falls. Understanding the impact absorption qualities of rubber mulch, a popular surfacing material, is essential for minimizing injuries. Backyard placement, the geographical location of your trampoline, influences ground conditions and the need for drainage solutions. Many trampoline owners consult ASTM International standards for safer recreational surfacing, ensuring their setup meets established safety benchmarks.

What to Put Under a Trampoline? Safe Surfaces!

Choosing the right surface under your trampoline is just as important as choosing the trampoline itself. It’s all about safety, folks! We want to make sure that if (or when!) someone takes a tumble, they land on something that minimizes the risk of injury. Let’s break down the best options and why they work (or don’t work).

First, let’s address the elephant in the room: why do you need something under your trampoline in the first place? It’s not just about aesthetics. A proper surface:

• Absorbs Impact: This is the big one. It cushions falls and reduces the force of impact.
• Prevents Hard Landings: Grass might seem soft, but after being compressed repeatedly, it’s not ideal. Hard-packed earth is even worse.
• Discourages Digging: Keeps kids (or pets!) from digging underneath the trampoline.
• Protects the Trampoline Itself: Some surfaces can help prevent wear and tear on the trampoline frame.

Now, onto the options! We can categorize them into a few key types:

1. Shock-Absorbing Tiles/Mats: These are specifically designed for safety surfaces. They’re usually made from recycled rubber or foam and come in interlocking tiles. Think of them like playground flooring, but for your backyard trampoline.
2. Loose-Fill Materials: These are spread out to create a thick, cushioned layer. Examples include wood chips, shredded rubber mulch, and pea gravel.
3. Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF): This is a specially processed type of wood mulch designed for safety and accessibility.
4. Existing Ground Cover: Grass, while not ideal, is what many people already have. We’ll discuss how to make it safer.

Let’s delve into each option, with pros and cons:

Shock-Absorbing Tiles/Mats

• Pros:
  • Excellent shock absorption – often rated for specific fall heights.
  • Durable and long-lasting.
  • Easy to install (interlocking design).
  • Clean and relatively low maintenance.
  • Available in various thicknesses and colors.
• Cons:
  • Can be the most expensive option.
  • May require a level base for proper installation.
  • Can get hot in direct sunlight.

Loose-Fill Materials

• Wood Chips:
  • Pros: Relatively inexpensive and readily available.
  • Cons: Decomposes over time, requires frequent replenishment, can harbor insects, and isn’t the best for accessibility.
• Shredded Rubber Mulch:
  • Pros: Excellent shock absorption, long-lasting, doesn’t decompose, and reduces weed growth.
  • Cons: More expensive than wood chips, can have a rubbery odor (especially when new), and may get hot in sunlight.
• Pea Gravel:
  • Pros: Inexpensive and readily available.
  • Cons: Doesn’t provide great shock absorption, can be easily scattered, and isn’t comfortable to land on.

Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF)

• Pros: Good shock absorption when installed at the correct depth, relatively inexpensive, and accessible for wheelchairs when properly compacted.
• Cons: Requires regular maintenance to maintain depth and accessibility, can decompose over time, and may need edging to contain it.

Existing Ground Cover (Grass)

• Pros: Cheapest option, already in place.
• Cons: Provides minimal shock absorption, wears down quickly, becomes hard-packed, and offers no added safety.

Improving Safety with Grass: If you’re sticking with grass (at least for now), here’s how to make it a bit safer:

• Maintain the Grass: Keep it well-watered and fertilized to encourage healthy growth.
• Regularly Aerate the Soil: This helps prevent compaction and improves drainage.
• Clear the Area: Remove any rocks, roots, or other debris that could cause injury.
• Consider Adding a Safety Pad: Place a thick, shock-absorbing safety pad around the perimeter of the trampoline.

To summarize the features of each type of material, see the table below:

Material	Shock Absorption	Durability	Cost	Maintenance	Accessibility
Rubber Tiles/Mats	Excellent	High	High	Low	Good
Wood Chips	Moderate	Low	Low	High	Poor
Shredded Rubber Mulch	Very Good	High	Moderate	Low	Good
Pea Gravel	Poor	High	Low	Moderate	Poor
Engineered Wood Fiber	Good	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate-High	Good (Compacted)
Grass	Poor	Low	Very Low	Moderate	Good

Finally, regardless of the material you choose, consider these factors:

• Depth/Thickness: More is better! Consult product guidelines for recommended depths or thicknesses based on fall height.
• Coverage Area: Extend the safety surface beyond the perimeter of the trampoline, ideally at least a few feet.
• Drainage: Ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation and mold growth.
• Maintenance: All surfaces require some level of maintenance, so factor that into your decision.

Remember, safety first! Take your time, do your research, and choose the surface that best fits your needs and budget. A little investment in safety can go a long way in preventing injuries and keeping everyone bouncing happily!

So, before you let the kids loose for some serious bouncing, take a little time to think about what to put under the trampoline. A bit of planning and the right safety surface can make all the difference in keeping everyone safe and happy. Happy bouncing!