The Installation of Hammocks

Width

• The minimum and maximum distance between support poles or trees for installing a hammock is determined by the size and type of hammock. The width needed for installation of hammocks without spreader bars is less than the space needed for hammocks with spreader bars. The minimum width for hammocks without spreader bars is 2/3 the length of the hammock, not including the chains or ropes used for hanging. Divide the length of the hammock by three and then double that number to determine the minimum length. To determine the maximum width or distance between support poles or trees, add 24 inches to the minimum length. For hammocks with spreader bars, the minimum hanging width is the same as the length of the hammock, not including chains or ropes used to hang it. The ideal hanging width, however, is the length of the hammock plus 12 inches. The maximum hanging width for a hammock with spreader bars is the length of the hammock plus 36 inches.

Height

• The height that a hammock is hung at is also different for each type of hammock. It also pays an important role in the safety of the hammock. Each end of the hammock should be hung at the same height. The height for hanging hammocks refers to the height at which the hooks for hanging are placed. For models without spreader bars, the ideal height is between 5 and 6 feet. Hammocks with spreader bars should be hung 4 to 5 feet high. Either type of hammock can be placed higher or lower, but neither should be placed so low that they drag the ground when a person lays in them, or so high that they pose a danger if a person accidentally falls out.

Support

• Stable support is critical for safe hammock installation. Trees or wooden posts are most commonly used to support hammocks. A combination of a tree and a post is suitable, especially if trees are not the appropriate distance apart, as long as both are sturdy. Trees should be at least 6 inches in diameter, while posts should be at least 4 inches. Wooden 4-by-4 posts are ideal. They should be buried at least 3 feet deep in the ground and secured with cement. Hammocks can also be attached to the sides of buildings or other structures, as long as they are able to bear the weight of the hammock and the person using it.

Stretching

• Yarn hammocks, which are among the most popular, stretch out as they are used and must be adjusted after installation. They should hang straight or taut when not in use. After several uses, however, the fiber will stretch and the hammock will begin to bow or sag in the middle. Shorten the rope or chain attached to tree or post so that the hammock returns to a straight position when not being used. This process may need to be repeated several times after installation until the hammock is done stretching.