Either you have a hammock and space already and are looking for info on how to hang it or are trying to work out where and how you could hang a hammock - either way you can find the information you need here.
Obviously the first and most important factor to consider before purchasing and attempting to hang a hammock is whether you have an appropriate spot with the right amount of hammock space. Different size hammocks require different amounts of space depending on their total length. All good hammock suppliers should note what distance is required to hang their hammock within (as we note on all our product pages), so check this info and then you can start measuring potential spaces.
When you have found a good spot for your hammock there is a method of determining the distance and height you need to hang your hammock from to get the best effect.
As a rule of thumb: The height of suspension must be approximately half of the spanned distance. So as your span distance gets wider, so should your fixing points get higher. This will keep the correct curved shape to the hammock rather than a taunt uncomfortable hammock. E.g. Trees or posts 4m apart, the hanging height should be approx 2m. Or for every metre spanned go 50cm higher.
In considering a hammock space - a larger space is always better than a smaller space as longer distances can always be spanned with a length of rope at each end. Large spaces also allow for more adjustment to your hammock to get the right hang and feel for you. Hammocks do stretch with use so having the option to adjust is handy in this regard.
Whether it is tropical coconut trees, or your favourite trees in the back garden the classic image of a hung hammock is also between trees. Depending on the size of your hammock, the trees span will vary but generally should stand at least 3 metres apart. Also solid and sturdy enough to carry your body weight. When hanging a hammock between two trees the simplest method is with two lengths of rope, looped around the tree and tied to the hammock. If your trees are further apart than necessary then just use longer rope and also have the rope looped around the tree higher to keep a nice curve shape to the hammock. Specialist hammock tree straps can make hanging and taking down from a tree setup very quick and easy without the need for complex knots.
For mounting your hammock from a wall you are going to need some sort of wall screw or hook along with some rope. This will vary by whether you have wood or concrete/brick etc. For a typically wooden house you want to find solid wall studs or ceiling joists that you can install a solid hook into. Something like screw eyes and hooks are a good option for this. You simply then install the hook at the correct height (see above 'Space requirements' section for determining height) and from this attach to your hammock.
If you are planning on putting something into a concrete or brick wall, then you'll need special concrete screws or bolts installed at the correct height from which you can attach your hammock or rope to. It may be best to consult with a local hardware supplier on the best option and installation technique for these type of walls.
Depending on the type of wall you have there are many different hammock hanging accessory options to choose from. With options available through the site here or from your local hardware store.
A great option for hanging hammocks indoors and outdoors under cover is from the ceiling. Just ensure you have a solid joist or beam to install fittings into - you don't want to bring the roof down. Beams - exposed or otherwise are also a great solid option to attach hammock fittings to or around and hang your hammock from.
Once you have found your ideal hammock spot, setup your attachments and hung your hammock you may find it needs the odd adjustment to get it just right for you. Consider a well-hung hammock when, while empty it has the curvature of a banana.
With use, hammocks will stretch, some more than others so you may need to re-tighten your suspension setup accordingly. This is generally only minor around 5-10% for our hammocks.
When it comes to hanging a hammock no two spots will be the same. Sometimes it takes a bit of variation and imagination to hunt out and create the perfect setup but let nothing stand in the way of enjoying your perfect hammock spot!
