Complete Trampoline Set-Up Instructions: A Comprehensive Guide

You’ve prepared the perfect area to position your family’s trampoline, and the package has just arrived. At this time, your biggest query is how to set up a trampoline. Now, setting up a trampoline can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re talking about a 15ft trampoline. However, it can also be pretty straightforward if you have the technical know-how plus the tools required.

How long does it take to assemble a trampoline?

The time you take to set up a trampoline will vary depending on its size, the complexity of the build, and how many people are doing it. For instance, a 14ft trampoline may take a relatively longer time to build than an 8ft unit because of the difference in the number of springs.

It’s possible for one person to build a trampoline along and save the money you’d have used in trampoline set up service. However, it will be much easier and less hectic if you have an extra pair of hands (or even two) helping you around.

Generally, it takes up to 4 hours to set up a 14ft trampoline. But this time can be lower for small trampolines more so if you have all the necessary assembly tools and parts ready.

Preparing to put up a trampoline

Setting up a trampoline requires adequate time and mental commitment. The process starts by marking the area where you’re going to position the trampoline. By this time, we assume that you already have a nice flat area away from buildings, trees, branches, and swings for the rig.

Start by taking all the boxes containing the trampoline system to the designated area. Having everything on the site will save you tons of precious time and the hassle of back and forth movements.

Get out all the tools that you need to set up a trampoline at this point too. Here is a list of tools you’ll need for the job:

A spring puller- you’ll most likely find it in the package.
Philips screwdriver- often included in the package too.
Power drill with Phillips screwdriver- this will save you time compared to using a screwdriver.
A rubber mallet
Gloves for hand protection

Detailed Trampoline Set Up Instructions

Step 1: Double-check what’s included in the package

Because every trampoline brand is different, we recommend going through the instructions first before starting to set it up. The instructions booklet should also contain a list of the different trampoline components that you should find in the box.

After reading and understanding the instructions, spread all the pieces on the ground. Double-check that you have all the necessary parts. Take care not to lose tiny bolts and nuts.

Step 2: Assembling the frame

The trampoline frame is what holds up everything else together. So, it makes sense to start the trampoline assembly process by building it.

Lay out all the tubes on the ground to form the circular shape of the frame. Position a T-joint section between every two steel frame parts. The T-sections provide a way to connect the trampoline legs.

Start attaching the frame parts into the T-sections. If you need to hammer the T-sections, ensure that you use a barrier, such as a towel, to prevent deforming the part. After assembling the tubes, use the power drill or screwdriver to tighten the screws or bolt.

Step 3: Attach the legs of the trampoline

With the frame assembled, it’s time to attach the legs. The legs should fit nicely into the designated spots on the T-sections. You may want to use the rubber mallet to drive the legs into the T-sections. Use soft blows, and remember to use a barrier. Once you’ve attached all the legs, tighten the screws or bolts to ensure that the rig is stable and not wobbly.

Step 4: Setting up the jumping mat

Once you get the ring sitting on the legs, you can get into the next stage of trampoline build: setting up the mat using the springs. Attaching the springs is the most tedious aspect of setting up a trampoline. Thus, you want to get it right with your first shot.

Begin by attaching a spring to one v-ring. Use the puller to attach the other end of the spring to the frame. Next, identify the spring directly opposite the one you’ve just attached and hook it up to the frame. After attaching the first 2 springs, turn 90 degrees and attach two springs in the same manner. Continue doing this until all the springs are attached. Ensure that the mat is evenly spread out and there are no overly tight or loose sections.

Step 5: Assembling the spring pad

Setting up the trampoline protective pad is fairly straightforward. Starting by laying the pad out on your trampoline along the spring system. The trampoline pad has holes underneath that accommodate the legs. Ensure that they are all lined up before tying the pad to the outside frame to secure it.

Step 6: Building the enclosure system

Start by attaching the net to the spring system using bungee loops. Next, lay all the poles around the frame setup. Start attaching the enclosure support poles onto the frame. Secure them with the screw and bolt and tighten using a screwdriver to ensure it’s strong and sturdy.

After installing all the poles, attach a safety hook at the top of each post. These hooks secure the safety net preventing it from collapsing. Lastly, attach the net making, sure that it’s safely attached to the hooks at the top.

Step 7: Test the trampoline for stability

At this point, your safest trampoline is ready for bouncing. Before that, though, check that all the legs and the net poles are stable. Next, hop on the mat and bounce around to ensure that it’s safe for your family. If it is, invite the jumpers for their first bounce. If it feels wobbly, check around for loose screws and nuts and tighten them.