Trampoline Advice Logo

Built-In Trampoline vs. Above Ground Trampoline - Which is Best?

Trampolines are an excellent way for your whole family to stay fit and entertained. You are fortunate if you have been considering putting one in your home. There are a variety of trampoline designs you can choose from.

Before deciding on having a trampoline in your backyard, the first question is whether built-in trampolines are better for your family than above-the-ground trampolines. Of course, above-ground trampolines and in-ground trampolines are excellent choices, but your decision will be influenced by your backyard, cost, space, aesthetics, safety, and other variables.

Built-in trampolines, unlike above-ground trampolines, are placed underground. Therefore, the build-in trampoline and the above-ground trampoline have their unique qualities. All you require is to understand the pros and cons of each and choose accordingly the design that would best suit your needs.

in ground trampoline

What Is The Difference Between An In-Ground And Above Ground Trampoline?

There are evident differences between built-in trampoline and the above-the-ground trampoline that you can look at before deciding. Built-in trampolines are set into the ground so that the trampoline’s bouncing area is level with your lawn.

On the other hand, above-ground trampolines are items you attach to the surface of your lawn so that it is elevated above the ground. Understanding the differences will help you choose a trampoline design that will suit your needs most.

i. Installation and Safety Difference

Another significant distinction is that built-In trampolines are difficult to transfer, whereas above-ground trampolines can be moved quickly. The good thing is that you can enhance the in-ground trampoline with a safety net that is more protective to ensure that your kids do not bounce off the trampoline and fall into the ground.

Trampolines that are built into the ground are fundamentally safer than trampolines that are built above ground. The in-built trampolines are safer because bouncing off a trampoline higher than the ground will hurt more and do more harm than falling off a trampoline at the same level as the ground.

ii. Maintenance Cost Difference

Another difference is that the build-in will take more time during installation than the above-ground trampoline. When installing the in-ground trampoline, you will need to dig holes in the ground, which is not necessary when installing the above-ground trampoline.

Installing the above-ground trampolines is a walk in the park. Besides, the Build-In trampoline and above-ground trampolines require different maintenance care. Above-ground trampolines need more maintenance costs. 

I know this might sound surprising since many people assume that build in trampolines require more maintenance. However, the above-ground trampoline will require much more care than the above-ground trampoline.

iii. Cost Difference

Building an in-ground trampoline and landscaping around it might significantly raise prices. After all, is said and done, installing a build-in trampoline may cost twice as much as installing an above-ground trampoline.

The high cost of setting up the in-ground trampoline is driven by the labor costs rather than the trampoline itself. However, you may require to figure in the expense of a contractor or landscaper if you need assistance installing a built-in trampoline.

built in trampoline

Are In Ground Trampolines As Bouncy?

Built-in trampolines are typically less bouncy than above-ground ones, so it is impossible to bounce high on them. The amount of air circulation determines the bounce of a built-in trampoline.

In an in-ground trampoline, it is like jumping on a bouncy cushion since the air has a hard time moving in and out of underneath the jumping mat rapidly. Therefore, the above-ground trampoline is a good choice if you want the best bounce.

The Above-ground will offer a great bounce because there is more distance between the ground and the jumping mat; thus, your kids can bounce higher. However, you can get a slower but smooth bounce on an in-ground trampoline.

Your kids can bounce in any of the two trampolines, but with the in-ground trampoline, they will have a higher bounce than in a build-in trampoline.

Can You Use An In-Ground Trampoline Above Ground?

If you live in a rented home, you may not be able to commit to a permanent trampoline since it’s not your property. Instead, you’ll need to set up the trampoline with a traditional frame with legs. The mat should be approximately 2.5 feet, allowing enough room to jump on your trampoline better.

trampoline basketball

Can You Install A Trampoline Yourself?

The easiest trampoline to install is the above-ground trampoline. Setting up an above-ground trampoline requires less time and less planning. On the other hand, you might need a lot of time and effort to install a built-in trampoline. 

When installing a built-in trampoline, you must ensure that the drainage is functioning efficiently, the soil should be suitable (avoid clay), and there is no room between the trampoline edges and the ground.

Final Thoughts

When you want to establish a trampoline for your kids at home, there are many factors you can consider to decide whether to have the build-in trampoline or the above-ground trampoline. First, however, you must note that both options can provide your family with the fun they need in varying degrees.

You should understand that it may be safer to have the in-ground trampoline but cheaper and easier to have the above-ground trampoline. The final decision on the trampoline to buy should be yours. Be sure to understand the kind of bounce your kids would desire.

 The above-ground will be the best choice if they love to bounce high. Also, above-ground trampolines are the way to go if you want to save money, particularly when it comes to installation.

Built-in trampolines also have advantages, such as fewer maintenance costs and a more appealing appearance. Think about what’s most important to you and choose from there!