5 Easy Steps To Hang A Hammock Indoors Like A Pro
Nothing beats swaying cozily in your hammock sanctuary, even
indoors. Hammocks can elevate interior spaces as chill relaxation zones,
reading nooks, and plant cradles - limited only by your imagination. However,
properly suspending them inside can be tricky without damaging walls, ceilings,
or the hammock.
Follow this beginner's guide to learn insider techniques for
hanging hammocks securely in doorways, from ceiling beams, around room corners,
and any indoor spot you fancy.
With this step-by-step guide on how to hang a hammock indoors, you'll install hammocks
like a pro and enjoy your indoor oasis in no time.
Step 1: Select the Right Location
Choosing suitable anchor points is critical to durability
and security when hanging a hammock indoors. Sturdy doorway moldings or hinge
side jambs work great since they can handle the weight.
Exposed beams, rafters, or installed hooks across the
ceiling make solid overhead suspension points able to disperse the load. Sturdy
eye bolts screwed into studs or joists are also reliable anchors. Avoid weak
drywall anchors or thin door panels.
Consider the intended hammock use when picking an optimal
spot. Lounging-only hammocks can hang in doorways using jambs to bear the
weight. For active swinging, overhead points like beams disperse force better.
Check for room to sit, roll, and swing your legs without hitting objects.
Ensuring the right clearances now prevents relocating anchors later.
Step 2: Install Proper Mounting Hardware
With the chosen location, install high-quality hardware to
hang from your anchors. Use 1/2" or larger steel eye bolts with at least
400lb weight rating for heavy-duty strength. Screw eye bolts several inches
into studs or solid wood for durability. S-hooks allow adjustability. Consider
a hammock suspension kit if it lacks hardware, which includes carabiners,
straps, and accessories specially designed for indoor use. Upgrade to the right
gear.
For the best return on investment, splurge on high-grade
stainless steel hardware with weatherproof finishes. Look for hammock
suspension kits with comprehensive directions and gear specially designed for
indoor use. Watch instructional videos to ensure you follow best practices for
safety. Ask at hardware stores for assistance picking optimal bolts, hooks, and
installation methods for your mounting locations and hammock weight. Investing
in quality hardware prevents costly failures down the road.
Step 3: Attach the Hammock Securely to the Anchors
Next, attach your hammock on both ends securely to the
installed eye bolts or hooks using carabiners, straps, or extension ropes
included with your gear. The distances between anchors will depend on hammock
size and height. Temporarily hang to test at first before fixing in place. The
goal is to keep the hammock optimally suspended for comfort and
stability.
Furthermore, equal anchor distances allow for keeping the
hammock bed ultra-flat for the best comfort. Adjust to find your "sweet
spot" height to sit comfortably before tying off suspension ropes. Keep an
extra line on hand to lower the hammock if needed. Tie adjustable knots or use
carabiners to tweak the height as you test your new hangout. Wear protective
eyewear when securing hardware and confirm everything feels snug. Take your
time getting the ideal hang dialed in.
Step 4: Add Protection for Surfaces
An indoor hammock puts pressure on anchors and walls, so add
protection to prevent damage. Foam pads, plywood sheets, floor mats, or pool
noodles make great cushions between the hammock and any surfaces. Protective
end caps on straps prevent abrasion on walls. Pick anchor locations like door
jambs or molding that have inherent durability. Take measures to save walls
from wear.
Place plywood pads underneath hammocks, even with wall
hooks, to prevent ceiling damage from swaying impact. Affix adhesive foam
bumpers wherever straps contact walls to block abrasion and noise. Wrap small
sections of old garden hose around chains to keep them quiet. For doorways,
hang a decorative blanket as a partition to absorb force and muffle sound.
Protect surfaces creatively to minimize wall, floor, and door wear over time
Step 5: Inspect and Enjoy Your Hammock
Before lounging, inspect seams, straps, carabiners, and
hardware for issues. Confirm everything feels sturdy and secure. Check that you
have enough clearance around the hammock to recline and sit up without hitting
walls or objects. Limit total capacity to stay under product weight ratings,
too. Now, you're ready to enjoy your indoor hammocking oasis properly! Relax
and sway gently indoors.
A pre-use inspection is crucial for identifying potential
structural weaknesses before relying on the hammock's integrity. Look at
stitching closely for any pulled threads, fraying, or gaps that indicate needed
repairs. Test suspension straps for fraying and ensure rated load capacities
can accommodate you.
Confirm carabiners are fully latched and load-rated as well.
Check for rust or damage on eye bolts or hardware. Sit centered before
reclining to verify stable, robust hanging. Paying attention now prevents
injuries. It also reveals wear to reinforce weak points and proactively prolong
your hammock's lifespan. By making thorough inspections, you optimize safety
and enjoyment.
Wrapping Up
An indoor hammock injects cosy fun into any space when hung
properly and safely. Choose suitable anchoring points, allow ample
clearance, and install quality hardware rated for the expected weight. Protect
surfaces with padding to prevent abrasion.
Inspect each element before use. With intelligent planning
upfront to find ideal mounting locations, quality gear, and periodic
maintenance, you can install the perfect indoor oasis to relax in style. Soon,
you'll be lounging like a pro in your custom-crafted hammock haven.