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Can You Put a Bounce House on Concrete? A Clear Guide to Safe and Fun Setup
- Posted on July 3, 2025
Bounce houses are a big hit at parties, school events, and festivals. They’re bright, exciting, and keep kids busy for hours. But many people ask, “Can you put a bounce house on concrete?” The answer is yes, but you have to be extra careful.
In this guide, you’ll learn when it’s okay to set up a bounce house on concrete, how to keep it safe, and what you can do to prevent injuries or damage.
Can You Set Up a Bounce House on Concrete?
Yes, you can set up a bounce house on concrete. But it’s not as easy as setting it up on grass. Grass is soft and helps hold the bounce house in place using stakes. Concrete is hard and smooth, so you need extra steps to keep everything safe.
Why It’s Important to Be Careful
Bounce houses can move or tip over if they aren’t set up right. This can be dangerous. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says that more than 10,000 people get hurt every year from bounce house accidents. Many of these happen because the bounce house was not set up the right way.
Safety Tips for Putting a Bounce House on Concrete
Setting up a bounce house on concrete can be safe, but it does come with a few extra risks. Here’s what you need to know to keep everyone safe.
1. Anchoring Is Very Important
You can’t use stakes on concrete like you would on grass. Instead, you need to use heavy sandbags or water barrels to hold the bounce house down. Most commercial bounce houses come with special instructions for anchoring on hard surfaces.
2. Use Soft Mats or Padding
Falling on concrete can hurt. To help prevent injuries, place foam mats or gym flooring around the entrance and exit. This soft padding helps protect kids if they fall or trip.
3. Check the Weather Before You Start
Wind or rain can make a bounce house dangerous, especially on a smooth surface like concrete. If the wind is stronger than 15 to 20 miles per hour, it is not safe to use a bounce house. Wet concrete also makes the area slippery.
4. Follow Local Rules
Some cities have special rules for bounce houses on public property, especially on concrete. You may need a permit or inspection. Ask your city’s parks department or your rental company before setting up.
How to Keep a Bounce House Secure on Concrete
When you can’t use stakes in the ground, try these safe ways to keep the bounce house in place.
Use Heavy Sandbags
Put sandbags on every anchor point of the bounce house. Each sandbag should weigh at least 50 pounds. If it is windy, place extra sandbags on the side where the wind is blowing. Make sure the sandbags are tied on tightly using strong straps or clips.
Use Water Barrels for Bigger Bounce Houses
If you are using a large bounce house, water barrels might be a better choice. Each barrel should weigh at least 100 pounds. You’ll need a hose to fill them and enough time before the party starts.
Put Down Non-Slip Mats
Rubber or foam mats can stop the bounce house from sliding around. Choose mats that lock together so they stay in place and do not move easily.
Tie Everything Down Correctly
Always use every anchor point that comes with the bounce house. Do not skip any corners. Using only one or two sandbags is not safe. Even a little movement can cause the bounce house to tip over.
Steps to Safely Set Up a Bounce House on Concrete
Follow this simple checklist to make sure your bounce house is safe on concrete:
- Pick a flat, open space without any low ceilings or wires above.
- Sweep the area and remove glass, rocks, or sharp objects.
- Place padded mats at the entrance and exit spots.
- Set the bounce house down flat with the blower port easy to reach.
- Anchor all corners using sandbags or water barrels.
- Inflate the bounce house and check that it stays in place.
- Watch for any movement, rips, or overheating while it is being used.
Taking a few extra minutes during setup helps prevent accidents later.
What Are the Risks of Setting Up on Concrete Without Preparation?
If you skip important steps, here are some serious risks:
- Injury: Kids can get hurt by falling on hard concrete.
- Tipping: The bounce house can fall over if wind or weight shifts it.
- Damage: Rubbing against concrete can tear the material or wear it out faster.
The ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) says every bounce house should have ground protection and be anchored, no matter where you place it.
Choose the Right Inflatable for Concrete Surfaces
Not every bounce house works well on concrete. Here is what to look for:
- Strong Material: PVC vinyl is better than nylon on hard ground.
- Commercial Models: These have stronger seams and anchor points.
- Flat Bottom: Avoid rounded or raised bases that are harder to keep stable.
- Right Size: A 10 by 10 foot bounce house fits well in most driveways or garages. Avoid large ones if space is limited.
Some rental companies offer special packages for concrete setups. These may include mats, sandbags, and help with installation.
How to Safely Supervise a Bounce House on Concrete
Having an adult supervise is very important. That person should:
- Make sure the bounce house is not too crowded.
- Keep out shoes, sharp items, and food.
- Stop kids from rough play or climbing on the sides.
It’s also a good idea to keep a first-aid kit nearby in case someone gets hurt.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a bounce house on concrete can be safe and fun if you take the right steps. Always use strong anchors, place soft mats around the bounce house, and follow the setup instructions carefully.
If you’re not sure how to do it properly, reach out to a rental company like Kangaroo Bounce Party that has experience with concrete setups.
Stay safe and have fun!
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