Did you know that hammocks were invented centuries ago by Native Americans to provide a comfortable and safe space for sleeping?
A hammock would protect them from snake bites and insects and would stop the spread of diseases. They are called ‘hammocks‘ because the earliest ones were made using the bark of a Hammack tree.
It wasn’t until the late 14th century, when Christopher Colombus brought them to Spain, that Europeans learned about it. Soon hammocks were used everywhere due to their convenience and space-saving qualities.
Nowadays, however, hammocks have become more of a luxurious feature and are mostly used on patios, gardens, or balconies.
People also carry it with them on camping trips so they can easily assemble it for sleeping.
Why Hang a Hammock on a Balcony?
Balconies are undoubtedly some of the best places in a house or apartment as they give the best views and let you enjoy your surroundings to the fullest.
Adding a hammock to a balcony will just make your balconies that much better and give you the perfect space to unwind, relax and enjoy.
A hammock makes you feel like you are floating, and the swaying motion helps you drift off much more easily than a standard bed.
It is the perfect choice to step away from the stress of daily life and sneak in a nap or just relax on it with a book.
Plus, hammocks are great for your back, too, so let’s learn everything about how you can hang a hammock on your balcony.
Hang a Hammock on a Balcony
Method #1 – Hanging a Hammock on the Ceiling or Wall
First thing first, determine your balcony size.
Since all balconies are different sizes, before you pick out a hammock for yourself, it is important to measure its size.
If your balcony is too small (8 feet or less), consider picking out a hammock chair instead of a traditional hammock.
If your balcony is longer than 8 feet, then let’s proceed to the hanging part of the hammock.
Tools You Need
Before moving on to the specifics, it’s essential that you gather the necessary equipment. You will need:
- Measuring tape
- Drill bit and a drill
- Eyebolts
- Hammock straps or ropes (optional)
- Screwdriver
- Hammock carabiners (optional)
Now let’s clarify the terminology we’ll be using as we lead you through the step-by-step guide on how to hang a hammock.
- Scale lines: The cord that joins the eyes and the bed of the hammock. Keep in mind that the scale lines are an integral element of the hammock and not the ropes used to suspend hammocks over particularly great distances.
- Eyes: There are two fabric loops called “eyes” on each end of a hammock. These loops are either used to connect the hammock directly to the wall or extend it using a rope on wider balconies.
- Bed: This is the part of the hammock where you lie.
The Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 – Locate the Beams on your Balcony
You can drill holes in the ceiling or the walls of your balcony, but you have to locate your beams to do so. (If you are on rent, this might not be an option; however, you can ask your landlords and proceed with it if they agree).
In contrast to a home’s inside, a balcony frequently has exposed beams. But if they are hidden, you can use these three methods to locate them:
- Search for an outlet
- Use a digital stud locator
- Employ the tapping procedure
Step 2 – Indicate the Drilling Radius
In order to give your hammock the best possible support, you will have to locate the center of your ceiling or wall beam.
Finding the center of the beam is easiest if you are using a stud locator. But if your balcony has an outlet, it is likely already placed at the center of your beam.
However, if you are using the tapping method, locate the beam’s center using your personal judgment.
Step 3 – Estimate the Spacing Between Beams
Once you’ve located the first beam, proceed to find the second one.
Follow the same procedure above but make sure to measure a distance of around 8 feet between the two beams.
Additionally, if you have a bigger balcony and can leave a distance of approximately 10-15 feet between the beams, it will be optimal. This way, You’ll have additional options to adjust the height of your hammock.
The height of your hammock should be at least 18 inches from the ground, similar to the height of a chair from the ground.
Step 4 – Time to Install the Eyebolts
Drill a pilot hole of approximately 9.5mm on the location you marked on your beam.
Proceed to screw the eyebolts in using a screwdriver. Your eye bolts should be long enough so that you can screw them into the beam at least 2 inches deep.
Step 5 – Now, you can Connect your Hammock.
The hammock can now be hung from your balcony. Nevertheless, this procedure will alter slightly based on the size of your balcony and hammock.
If your balcony is small, you will have to connect your hammock directly to the wall.
Alternatively, you can choose a suitable length by wrapping a chain or rope around the eye. You can use a carabiner to attach the eyes to the eyebolts, as this will make it easier for you to detach them when required.
Irrespective of the hanging technique you choose, a good quality carabiner is actually a great choice. With a modest balcony, you can easily remove your hammock if you need to make room for barbecues or guests.
Method #2 – Hanging a Hammock off the Railings
If you are on rent, this is the easiest no-drill solution to hang a hammock. Only a few sturdy carabiners or hooks are required in terms of additional supplies.
The installation method is pretty straightforward; all you have to do is to utilize the balcony railings to attach hooks to them, then proceed to hang the hammock on them.
You can also employ hammock suspension ropes or straps. While these are intended for poles or trees, they can work perfectly well for balcony railings as well.
Additionally, this method can be used to suspend a hammock between any two strong points on your balcony. But if you are not sure about the strength, DO NOT rely on it to support your weight.
Method #3 – Utilize a Hammock Stand
Using a hammock is a great choice if you don’t want to drill holes. The stand is typically constructed of metal poles that are supported by metal legs.
However, a freestanding hammock takes up a lot of space on a balcony, which is why most people prefer to hang hammocks from railings, walls, or ceilings.
If your balcony is spacious, a hammock stand will make a great option, especially since they are available in several designs and materials and could make your balcony more aesthetically pleasing.
Additional Tips on Hanging a Hammock
Here are a few extra recommendations for making the most out of your balcony hammock:
- Placing the hammock in a diagonal position will not only look good but also make the most out of a compact space.
- Adding hammock cushions and pillows will not only make it comfy but also add a pop of color and pattern to your balcony.
- Make sure you don’t secure the hammock too tight. A loosely hanging hammock will provide maximum comfort as it will sway and move freely.
Don’t Forget to Take Necessary Safety Measures.
It is always better to be safe than sorry; therefore, here are a few safety measures you ought to take while installing your hammock.
- No Metal Beams
Since metal beams aren’t as sturdy as wooden ones, you should never attempt to hang a hammock from them.
- Test its Strength
Before you proceed to sit on your hammock, make sure you test it with some weight first.
This is especially true for balcony hammocks because external factors might speed up the material’s deterioration.
- Do Not Hang It Higher than 18 inches From the Ground.
The higher your hammock, the more risk of injury in case you fall. Therefore, it is important that you adhere to the maximum height of 18 inches.
- The Thickness of the Beam should be 6 inches or more.
If you plan on hanging your hammock to the beam, then you have to make sure it has a circumference of 6 inches or more.
- Never Stretch the Bed of the Hammock
If you want to extend your hammock to attach it, make sure to use ropes or straps to do so. Since stretching the bed on its own could increase the chances of you falling out of it.
Final Words
When you sit down and look for options, you will find that there are several alternatives to hanging a hammock on a balcony. Moreover, the options are customizable depending on the size of your balcony.
You can choose a drill or no-drill method or simply use a hammock stand.
Nevertheless, the essential things to keep in mind are to choose a hammock that will fit in your area and attach it using the safety measures we discussed.
Regardless of your choice, a hammock will give you a terrific new method to unwind on your balcony. Whether you want to nap on it, read a book, or just enjoy a hot cup of coffee or a chilled cocktail, hammocks are a luxury anyone can enjoy.
Related Articles
How to Keep Bugs Away from Apartment Balcony?
How to Turn My Balcony into a Garden?
How to Convert Balcony into Gym?
How to Reduce Traffic Noise on a Balcony?
How to Stop Rainwater Coming from Balcony