Hi Rebekah, This is a commercial-grade product, which is much different and heavier. It is covered by a full 2 year warranty and 5 year promise. These are designed to be used hundreds of times, given proper care, and have replaceable slide surfaces. We also produce residential/home-use products more similar to what you've had in the past, that should last a family much longer than the experience you've had. You didn't mention what type of use the slide is for, but we would not typically recommend that someone need to purchase a commercial slide for normal family use. Sincerely, Blast Zone Support