What to Do When Your Trampoline Frame Starts Wobbling
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:6 October 2025
A trampoline that starts to wobble is more than just annoying. It could mean something's not quite right with the frame, and if left unchecked, that wobble might turn into a full-blown safety hazard. If you've noticed a shake or shift when someone lands, it’s time to look a little closer. A sturdy frame keeps everyone safe while they jump, and it also helps your trampoline last longer.
In Perth, where backyards are full of energy during spring, it's common for trampolines to show signs of wear after a long winter. Before summer kicks in and the kids are hopping back on regularly, it's worth doing a proper check of your frame. Let’s run through what might be causing that wobble and what steps you can take now to stop it getting worse.
Identifying the Cause of Wobbling
Before jumping into repairs, start by understanding what might be making the frame wobble. If you're in Perth, salt in the air can speed up wear and tear, especially on coastal properties.
Use this checklist to evaluate common causes:
- Check all bolts, screws, and frame connections. Are any loose or missing?
- Inspect joints where the legs connect to the round or rectangle sections of the frame.
- Look for rust, corrosion, or warping, especially around key joints.
- Make sure the trampoline is sitting evenly. One side raised higher than another could mean uneven ground.
- Review support components like T-joints and clamps to confirm they haven't moved or bent.
Even minor looseness in one part of the frame can create an unstable jumping surface. Damage isn't always visible unless you give the structure a good shake or press on the joints.
The ground underneath the trampoline plays a big role too. Sandy or rain-softened soil can cause one leg to shift or sink slightly over time. This throws the balance off, which might not be obvious until someone jumps and the frame shifts unexpectedly.
Inspecting everything from top to bottom gives you a better sense of where the trouble might be starting. That way, you don’t risk making the problem worse with a patchy fix.
Fixing a Wobbly Frame
Once you've identified the issue, getting your rectangle trampoline back into solid shape doesn’t have to be complicated. Start wherever things seem least secure and move gradually across the frame.
Try these steps:
1. Tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws using the correct tools. Don’t overtighten, but make sure there’s no give.
2. Focus especially on joints at the base, where legs meet the main frame.
3. If parts are missing, replace them with the proper fittings from an authorised supplier. Avoid using mismatched pieces.
4. Remove any visibly rusted bolts or connectors and install new ones.
5. Once tightened, lift a few corners or apply pressure to see whether the frame still shifts.
6. Level the base if necessary, using concrete pavers or repositioning the trampoline on firmer ground.
Rectangle trampolines often have extra support bars to help with balance and durability. These crossbars can loosen if the trampoline has been moved or twisted during storms or storage. Check for small gaps where bars are meant to sit flush against the frame.
We heard from a Perth customer whose rectangle trampoline was tilting slightly each time her son landed. The problem came down to two frame bolts on the lower side working loose. She swapped one stripped bolt and tightened the rest. The wobble stopped instantly.
These small adjustments often sort the problem, as long as you act quickly and don’t ignore the first signs of movement.
Preventative Maintenance for a Stable Frame
To reduce future problems, keep your trampoline in top shape with regular checks and simple care. Heading into summer, Perth weather can shift from hot sun to sudden rain, both of which can affect your frame’s condition.
Here are a few ways to stay ahead of problems:
- Inspect all joints and bolts at least once a month.
- Give the frame a gentle shake after heavier use to feel for movement.
- Store a matching spanner or wrench kit nearby so small fixes don’t get delayed.
- Place concrete pavers at each leg to help avoid sinking into soft ground.
- Don’t drag the trampoline across the yard. Lift each side when moving to prevent twisting or leg damage.
If your trampoline is outdoors all year, keep an eye out for signs of rust or weakening in winter. When packing it down or covering for the off-season, wipe joints and legs clean with a cloth to stop moisture build-up.
Also, try to position it away from trees. Falling sticks and branches in windy conditions can dent or damage parts of the frame, making it more likely to wobble later.
The better shape your frame stays in year-round, the less likely it’ll become a safety risk or need a larger repair down the track.
When to Call Professional Help
Even the most careful maintenance can’t fix everything. If the trampoline still doesn’t feel steady after basic repair, stop using it until someone with experience takes a look.
Warning signs include:
- Visible cracks in the metal frame
- Moderate to severe bending near joint points
- Rust that flakes away or weakens the metal significantly
- Persistent creaks or sways after tightening
- Instability that worsens with each jump session
Replacing a part might not always solve the root issue if the structure itself has been stressed for too long. Professional repair services can inspect for less obvious wear and see whether components need replacing or whether a new frame section is safer.
If this is the second or third time you've had to fix the frame, a specialist can help pinpoint repeated issues. Especially in Perth, soil type and surface may play a bigger role than you realise. Soft patches under the grass or shifting sand can reduce the grip your frame has on the ground, even if the structural parts are fine.
A qualified technician can assess everything from alignment to ground stability and make sure the fix isn’t just short-term.
Make Sure the Fun Keeps Going
A trampoline should feel strong and steady every time someone jumps. If it doesn’t, it's worth taking the time now to sort it out before small problems grow into bigger ones.
Stay on top of bolt checks, protect the frame from moisture buildup, and watch for early signs like rattles or shaky corners. Most issues start small but can lead to bigger trouble if ignored. Regular inspections go a long way in keeping the trampoline safe and enjoyable through spring and summer.
But when fixes stop working or if things still feel off, don’t leave safety to chance. Give it a proper check-up, and if needed, talk to someone who knows rectangle trampolines well. With the frame solid and the base steady, you’ll get more bounce, more safety, and peace of mind.
If you're dealing with a wobbly frame and need expert advice on keeping things steady, explore our solutions for maintaining a stable rectangle trampoline. At Jump Star Trampolines, we offer a wide range of options to ensure your trampoline remains safe and secure throughout every season. Check out our resources and let our team help you achieve the best jumping experience possible.
