Rolling up a thick and heavy bounce house using a rolling machine requires proper technique to ensure it's done efficiently and without damaging the material. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Preparation
- Clean & Dry: Make sure the bounce house is clean and completely dry before rolling. Any moisture can cause mold or mildew.
- Deflate Completely: Use an air blower in reverse or let the air escape naturally. Press down on the material to remove excess air.
- Fold Side Attachments: Tuck in any slides, obstacles, or protruding parts to make the main structure as compact as possible.
2. Pre-Folding
- Flatten the Material: Spread the bounce house evenly on the ground, making sure there are no large air pockets.
- Fold to the Width of the Roller: If your rolling machine has a fixed width, fold the bounce house lengthwise to match that width.
3. Rolling with a Machine
- Position the Machine: Place the rolling machine at one end of the bounce house.
- Start Rolling: Slowly feed the bounce house into the machine, keeping it aligned to prevent uneven rolling.
- Apply Tension: Some rolling machines have built-in tension systems, but if needed, have someone guide the fabric manually to keep it tight.
- Continue Rolling: Let the machine do the work, but monitor for any uneven rolling or bunching.
4. Securing & Storing
- Tie or Strap the Roll: Once fully rolled, secure it with straps or bands to prevent it from unraveling.
- Store Properly: Place the rolled bounce house in a dry storage area, preferably on a pallet to keep it off the ground.
Tips:
- Use a heavy-duty rolling machine designed for inflatables to handle the weight.
- If the bounce house is extremely large, rolling in sections may be necessary.
- If using a manual roller, work in teams to ensure even tension and avoid wrinkles.