A hammock is a piece of netting or fabric suspended between two points with a chain, rope, or other strong materials. In this modern era, they are used for relaxation while in the old days’ people used to sleep on them as beds. Mostly, they are hung between trees in the backyard, where owners eagerly wait for summer and relish the weather.
Some people think of hammocks as an exclusively outdoor way of relaxing. However, you can hang a hammock from a ceiling and enjoy it throughout the year, during sunshine, rain, or snow. Also, you can easily swing gently in the room as you read a book or nap. It provides plenty of options; hence you are free to choose the style you want and take the stress off your back. Notably, it is possible to hang it on the roof surface and lie on a flexible swing bed since tossing and turning are properly managed.
Contents
Steps of Hanging a Hammock from a Ceiling
Locating the Right Area
Determining where you want to hang your hammock is a crucial factor. In most cases, you have already identified the room you want to place in. But you are required to figure out where the swinging bed or chair is going to be hung. Notably, you can prefer to suspend it on the left or right corner of the living room or bedroom. Therefore, picking the area you want to hang your hammock involves taking dimensions to know the correct part to locate it.
Identify the Anchor Points
Measure and mark the distance between two points. Remember that the distance between depends on the length and how long you want it to sag. In many cases, the average height of the swinging chair is 18 inches. If you want the hammock to lie flat, you need about 15 feet of distance between the hanging points. However, when you want it to hang in a basketlike shape, the ends can be closer to each other. Keep in mind that it is suspended from the ceiling at both sides or one end from the ceiling and the other from the wall.
Drill a Small Hole
Using a stud finder, locate the ceiling joists for anchoring the ends of your hammock. Also, mark the center of the stud after you have found the framing members. Drill a small hole through the ceiling to ensure you have located the joist. For confirmation, inspect the spiral grooves and look for wood shavings in the grooves.
Bore 3/8-inch Holes
Purchase a heavy-duty screw eye to anchor hammock framing members. Bore a 3/8 inch hole for the eye bolts. Screw in the bolts as far as they will go ensuring that your hammock stays firmly on the ceiling. Notably, your screw eyes should be at least 2inches screwed into the solid wood joists. In case the hole is less than two inches, redrill again until you achieve the correct depth. Keep in mind that this hardware should be securely anchored to safely hold the weight of the person lying on the hammock.
Hang your Hammock
Use chains, ropes, or cords to suspend your hammock. Ensure you achieve the desired length by adjusting the height of suspensions for the swinging bed or chair. Fasten the materials to the anchored hooks or eyebolts with knots and hang the hammock. Note that you can use carabiners to extend the length of the suspensions until the hardware sags appropriately. Also, test whether your luxury item is steady while in use. In case it almost falls, repeats the process of screwing in the eye bolts. If it is comfortable, start enjoying your time as you relax on your hammock.
Safety Concerns While Hanging A Hammock On The Ceiling
Quality of Materials
Check on the quality of the hardware being used such as the joists, exposed beams, hooks, ropes, chains, or studs. Also, ensure your ceiling is strong enough to support your weight. Note that you do not want to cause damage to your home or get injured when the hammock falls. Top-notch swing beds or chairs are lightweight and highly durable. Remember to buy your hammock from a trusted manufacturer so you can trust its integrity during use.
Distance Between Anchor Points
When setting up an indoor hammock, separate the anchor points using the appropriate dimensions. These two points should not be too far apart or close. Keep in mind that the accurate distance depends on the preferred sag. Also, you do not want the hammock to affect the accessibility of the room. Hence, hanging it at an angle of 30 degrees from the anchor points is perfect; and makes it comfortable to lay in. Notably, you can adjust the suspension system angle to correct degrees without moving or affecting the eye-bolts position.
Hanging Height
If you have decided to hang your hammock from the ceiling, it is crucial to follow safety precautions. Look for a height that is flexible and allows you to climb into it comfortably. Also, when you hung it too high, it will be hard to get in and out of the hammock. If you decide to make it too low, your hammock will be close to the floor. Therefore, to achieve the ideal height, adjust the suspension straps. Although, the appropriate height is achieved by putting the attachment points at the proper position.
Testing Hammock before Use
Can you Hang a Hammock from a Ceiling? Note that the answer to this question is Yes as far as you assess the item before use. Therefore, once you have secured your hammock to the ceiling, test its weight capacity. Avoid jumping right into it as soon as you install it. Keep in mind that you are supposed to check if the whole setup is correct and ensure the hardware used is strong enough.
An outstanding option you can apply is putting some heavy objects on the hammock. Therefore, pile books, weights, or dumbbells in the swing to determine if it is safe. Also, the next step is to sit on the edge with your feet on the floor. Continue testing by getting into the hammock with caution until you are comfortable with the results. If everything is secure, you can fully get into the hammock, lay down, and relax.
Conclusion
Indoor hammocks are an inexpensive luxury that you can enjoy from the comfort of your house. Also, they are a relaxing alternative to a couch, bed, or chair and excellent for winding down after a busy day. They are easy to install on the ceiling as long as you follow the guidelines and consider the safety measures. Choose a spot to hang your hammock and enjoy relaxing as you take a nap, read a book, watch television or play a video game.
