Owning an in-ground trampoline is one of the best ways to upgrade your backyard. They look sleek, are incredibly safe, and don't block your garden view. However, because an in-ground system is installed in a pit, it faces a unique challenge: a higher moisture concentration.
Moisture accumulation can become the primary enemy of your trampoline's metal components. Rust and corrosion don’t just make a trampoline look old; they can compromise the structural integrity of the frame and the "snap" of your springs.
The good news is that with a few proactive steps, you can keep your investment looking and performing like new. Continue reading to learn what you need to do to winter-proof your jump zone.
1. Understanding the "Pit Effect": Why Rust Happens
In a standard above-ground trampoline, air circulates freely around the frame, drying it off quickly after a storm. An in-ground trampoline, however, is subject to the "pit effect."
Moisture can get trapped in the excavation area, creating a humid microclimate. During winter, damp soil stays cold and wet for months, meaning your galvanized steel frame is in constant contact with high humidity.
Rust forms when iron, oxygen, and moisture meet. Winter accelerates this because salt (from coastal air or sidewalk de-icer) and standing water create the perfect environment for oxidation to take hold.
2. Start with a Thorough Pre-Winter Clean
Before the first frost hits, use a soft-bristled brush and mild soapy water to clean the mat, the safety pads, and any visible parts of the frame. Doing this is important because dirt, bird droppings, and decomposing leaves hold moisture against the metal.
By removing this "organic sludge," you ensure the metal dries out as quickly as possible when the sun shines in the winter.
3. The Power of a Rust-Inhibitor Spray
Even though high-end brands like Avyna or Akrobat use hot-dipped galvanized steel (which is rust-resistant), an extra layer of protection never hurts. Before the snow piles up, grab a can of high-quality marine-grade rust inhibitor or a silicone-based lubricant spray.
Focus your spray on the joints, welds, and spring attachment points. These are the areas where the galvanization can sometimes be thinner or where metal rubs against metal, creating tiny scratches where rust likes to start.
4. Prioritize Spring Care
The springs are often the most vulnerable part of an in-ground trampoline. They are under constant tension, and small micro-fissures in the metal can trap salt and water.
If you live in an area with particularly harsh winters, consider applying a light coat of grease or specialized "spring oil" to the coils. This prevents the coils from seizing up or developing surface rust that can eventually lead to snapping.
If you see any springs with orange spots, clean them with a wire brush and treat them immediately before winter moisture worsens the problem.
5. Ensure Your Drainage is Clear
Rust’s best friend is standing water. If your in-ground pit doesn't drain properly, your frame might literally be sitting in a puddle for three or more months. Before the ground freezes, check the bottom of your in-ground trampoline pit.
Remove any fallen leaves or debris that might be clogging your drainage pipes or the gravel soakaway. If you notice the water isn't draining quickly, you might need to add a bit more gravel or clear out the weed barrier fabric to keep the frame as dry as possible.
6. Use a High-Quality Winter Cover
A common mistake is thinking a cover "traps" moisture. A cheap plastic tarp might do that, but a professional in-ground trampoline winter cover is made of breathable material.
These covers usually feature a mesh center that allows water to pass through into the drainage system while keeping heavy snow, ice, and debris off the mat and pads. By keeping the trampoline's "guts" clear of snow, you reduce the overall moisture level in the pit.
FAQ: Winterizing Your Jump Zone
1. Why does my in-ground trampoline rust more in winter?
The combination of low temperatures, trapped humidity in the pit, and the presence of road salt or increased precipitation creates a highly corrosive environment. Unlike summer, where water evaporates quickly, winter moisture can sit on the metal for weeks at a time.
2. Which trampoline parts are most prone to rust?
The springs and the frame joints (where the pieces of the tube slide together) are the most vulnerable to rust.
3. Should I remove the trampoline during winter?
No, modern in-ground trampoline systems are designed to stay in place. However, if you live in an extremely snowy climate, some people choose to remove the jump mat and springs to store them indoors, though a good cover usually makes this step unnecessary.
4. Is a trampoline cover enough to prevent rust?
A cover is a great first line of defense against debris and heavy snow, but it isn't a total solution. You still need to ensure your drainage is working and consider using a rust-inhibitor spray on the metal components for full protection.
5. How can I protect trampoline springs from rust?
Clean them before winter and apply a light coating of silicone spray or specialized lubricant. This creates a barrier that sheds water and prevents the salt in the air from attacking the steel.