Can You Put a Bouncy Castle on Concrete, Tarmac or Artificial Grass?
One of the questions we're regularly asked is whether we can set up a bouncy castle on a patio, driveway, concrete, tarmac or artificial grass.
It's a perfectly reasonable question. After all, if there's enough space for the inflatable, why should the surface underneath make a difference?
The answer comes down to one very important thing: safety.
Our Outdoor Hire Policy
At Sundorne Bouncy Castles, all outdoor inflatable equipment must be installed on suitable natural grass, where it can be correctly secured using specialist ground anchors.
We do not install our standard outdoor inflatables on concrete, tarmac, patios, driveways, paving or artificial grass.
This isn't simply a preference. It's an important part of how we ensure our equipment is installed safely.
Watch: Why Correct Anchoring Matters
See why proper anchoring is essential and why hard-standing installations require more than simply placing weights around an inflatable.
Correct anchoring is a vital part of inflatable safety, even when the weather appears calm.
Which Surfaces Are Suitable?
Here's a quick guide to the surfaces we can and cannot use for outdoor inflatable hire.
Natural grass with suitable ground conditionsYES
ConcreteNO
TarmacNO
Paving slabs or patiosNO
Block pavingNO
Gravel or shingleNO
Artificial grassNO
DeckingNO
Natural grass must also be reasonably level, free from obstructions and suitable for secure anchoring. Our team will assess the proposed setup area on arrival.
Why Do Bouncy Castles Need Anchoring?
A bouncy castle might look heavy and stable when inflated, but it's essentially a large structure filled with air.
Wind can place considerable force on an inflatable. Without suitable anchoring, the equipment could move, lift or overturn, putting users and anyone nearby at serious risk.
Inflatables are designed with specific anchoring points, which must be secured in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the relevant safety standards.
Why Ground Stakes Matter
For our outdoor installations, we use appropriate ground stakes driven into suitable natural ground to secure the inflatable. Simply placing a bouncy castle on a surface is not enough. It must be properly anchored.
What About Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass can look very similar to natural grass, but what lies underneath it can be very different.
Many artificial lawns are installed over compacted aggregate, sand, concrete or other prepared bases. These can prevent ground stakes from being installed correctly. Even where soil is present beneath the surface, we cannot assume that the ground is suitable for safe anchoring.
Our Policy on Artificial Grass
We do not install outdoor inflatables on artificial grass. There are too many unknown factors that can't be known until the day of setup. In addition, driving anchoring pegs through the membrane will leave visible damage afterwards.
What If I Don't Have a Grass Area?
If you don't have a suitable lawn, you may still have other options.
Hiring a local village hall or community venue can be a great alternative, particularly if you're planning a children's birthday party.
We have a wide selection of inflatables suitable for indoor use, including low-height castles designed for venues with restricted ceiling space.
You can view an ever-growing list of venues and their suitability for bouncy castle hire here.
Safety Always Comes First
We appreciate that our natural-grass-only policy can sometimes be disappointing, especially when you have plenty of space on a driveway or patio.
However, we'd much rather explain why we cannot safely install an inflatable than take unnecessary risks with anyone's safety.
With over 20 years of experience providing inflatable entertainment, we're committed to ensuring our equipment is installed and operated safely.
Not Sure Whether Your Garden Is Suitable?
Get in touch before booking.
We're always happy to offer advice about your available space and help you find a suitable alternative.
01234 434 434