When it comes to installing an in-ground trampoline, the retaining ring—also known as a trampoline ring or retaining wall—is the backbone of a safe, durable, and visually appealing setup. This critical component holds back the surrounding soil, ensuring the excavated hole maintains its shape and the trampoline remains securely flush with the ground. At Rocky Mountain Trampoline Rings, we believe corrugated steel is the unrivaled choice for this purpose. Its unique combination of strength, longevity, and ease of use sets it apart from all other materials on the market. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why corrugated steel outperforms alternatives like plastic, roofing metal, aluminum, railroad ties, and cinder blocks, and why it’s the smartest investment for your backyard trampoline.
The Superiority of Corrugated Steel
Corrugated steel, characterized by its wavy, ridged design, is engineered for exceptional performance in demanding applications. Unlike flat steel or other materials, the corrugation adds structural rigidity, allowing the ring to withstand significant pressure from soil without bending or buckling. This makes it ideal for in-ground trampoline installations, where the retaining wall must resist constant lateral forces from backfilled earth, seasonal weather changes, and the dynamic impact of jumping.
Why Other Materials Fall Short
While corrugated steel sets the standard, other materials commonly used for in-ground trampoline retention—plastic, roofing metal, aluminum, railroad ties, and cinder blocks—simply don’t measure up. Below, we break down the shortcomings of each alternative, highlighting why corrugated steel remains the superior choice.
Plastic panels: weak and short lived
Some companies offer polyethylene plastic panels as a retaining solution, but these fall far short of corrugated steel’s capabilities. Plastic lacks the structural strength to withstand soil pressure over time, often deforming or cracking under stress. This can lead to soil slippage, compromising the trampoline’s stability and safety. Installation is also labor-intensive, requiring over 30 panels and numerous self-tapping screws to form a single ring, compared to our five-sheet system. Plastic’s longevity is another concern; it degrades faster under UV exposure and environmental wear, rarely lasting more than a few years. Contractors and landscapers who’ve tried plastic often switch to our steel rings after experiencing repeated failures, as plastic cannot match our 25-year guarantee.
roofing metal and aluminum: not fit for purpose
Hardware stores and playground suppliers may offer flat metal sheets or aluminum for DIY projects, but these materials are unsuitable for trampoline retention. Unlike our corrugated steel rings, roofing metal and aluminum lack the engineered strength and shape needed to securely retain soil around a trampoline’s large, deep hole. They often bend or warp under pressure, creating an unstable setup that requires frequent repairs or replacement. Additionally, materials like galvanized steel trampoline rings, commonly sold by competitors, are prone to rust due to inadequate corrosion resistance. Our product, by contrast, are purpose-built with a tailored fit and robust design, ensuring they never corrode and maintain their shape for long-lasting performance.
Railroad Ties: Labor-intensive and prone to rot
Pressure-treated railroad ties are sometimes used as a retaining solution, but they come with significant drawbacks. Installing dozens of heavy ties around a trampoline is a time-consuming, physically demanding process that often requires professional help. Even with pressure treatment, wood is susceptible to rot, especially when buried in moist soil. As the ties decay, they lose their ability to maintain the hole’s integrity, leading to soil shifts and potential trampoline damage. Corrugated steel, with its rust-proof coating and minimal maintenance needs, offers a hassle-free alternative that lasts decades longer without the need for replacement.
Cinder Block and Pavers: high maintanance and risky
Using cinder blocks or pavers to create a retaining wall is another labor-intensive option that often requires professional masonry skills to ensure proper alignment and stability. Even when installed correctly, these materials demand regular maintenance to prevent individual blocks from shifting or loosening, which can destabilize the entire structure. Additionally, the hard surfaces of blocks and pavers create a safety hazard around the trampoline, posing a risk of injury if a child falls or lands awkwardly. Our corrugated steel rings eliminate these concerns with a smooth, secure perimeter that requires no ongoing upkeep and integrates safely with the trampoline frame.
The rocky mountain difference
At Rocky Mountain Trampoline Rings, we take pride in offering the highest-quality in-ground trampoline rings on the market, all manufactured in the United States. Our corrugated steel rings are designed for ease, safety, and durability, ensuring your trampoline remains a centerpiece of fun for years to come. Available in standard sizes (12’, 14’, 15’, and 16’) or custom shapes like square, rectangular, or octagonal, our rings are tailored to fit any trampoline perfectly. We stand behind our products with a 25-year full replacement guarantee, a commitment unmatched by competitors using inferior materials.
Our rings are not only stronger and longer-lasting but also more cost-effective over time. Priced competitively starting at $799, they offer unbeatable value, with nationwide shipping and a price-match guarantee to ensure you get the best deal.
Call us today at 801-668-2525 to learn more or place your order, and see why contractors, landscapers, and homeowners trust us for their in-ground trampoline needs.
invest in the best
Choosing the right retaining ring for your in-ground trampoline is a decision that impacts safety, aesthetics, and longevity. Corrugated steel stands head and shoulders above plastic, roofing metal, aluminum, railroad ties, and cinder blocks, offering unmatched strength, rust resistance, and ease of installation. With Rocky Mountain Trampoline Rings, you’re investing in a product engineered for excellence, backed by decades of guaranteed performance. Transform your backyard into a safe, fun, and beautiful space—choose corrugated steel and experience the difference today.
