My first stand!!

**Roadrunnr72** · 12-04-2011, 14:11

Originally Posted by taylo166

Yea I think its gonna get iffy over time. That's why I didn't concrete em in. We'll see though. If it falls, I'm on soft grass and out two $10 4x4's. For now it's just fine.

You may be on soft grass, but if it fails, and it's because one of the guys stakes pulls out, you now have a 4x4 coming down on you, while sleeping.

I woud do as others have suggested, and use a cross beam.

**olddog** · 12-04-2011, 17:39

In the past something similar was being discussed and I thought about using the pvc fence post bedded in concrete. The pvc is sized to sleeve over the 4"x4" timber. My idea was that this would allow removal of the timbers for mowing or storage. Never tried it myself, can't hang outside at night at my residence. Sharkey's Bar 200 yds behind booming until 2:00 AM and an ambulance service 1/2 mile down the road.

**taylo** · 12-04-2011, 17:44

So what should I use for a cross member? A long 2x4?

**DavyRay** · 12-04-2011, 17:56

Many people use the top rail from a chain link fence. Those are 1 3/8" diameter and are long. They are, I think, about 10 feet long.

**MrClean417** · 12-04-2011, 18:31

I'd say a couple of 2x4's, and several more cut to fit

**oldgringo** · 12-04-2011, 18:53

Originally Posted by taylo166

So what should I use for a cross member? A long 2x4?

A pair would be better. Put 4x4 spacer blocks between them every 3-4 feet.

**MrClean417** · 12-04-2011, 19:58

pss, that's kinda what the cross members of the trellis are for. Eh, I guess it ain't for everybody. But you know, couple coats of redwood stain, some fancy end pieces. People would think you're just trying to make a statement instead of trying to take a nap.

**Dave10** · 12-04-2011, 20:48

I've been thinking about doing this but I plan on putting the posts in 3 feet or more.

**RedBeardHanger** · 12-04-2011, 20:59

Originally Posted by oldgringo

Nice!

An overhead beam would eliminate the need for guys.

You can use an aluminum fence pole for the beam... Just drill a 1-2” hole for the pipe to fit in both 4x4’s and your’e set.

**hppyfngy** · 12-04-2011, 23:59

If those posts are sticking up 7' above ground they must be 16-18' apart. That's a lot of span for a top rail...

If they're as far apart as they look, I think I'd probably try a triangle brace coming from high on the post toward the ground under the hang of the hammock. Like a "z" brace on a gate? Make sense?

l\ /l

How's that for a sketch? (I'm traveling with no means to sketch it up...)

hfg