I built this decking area to create a calm and shaded space in the garden where I could relax, stretch out in a hammock, or even use it for yoga. Rather than using a separate stand, I decided to build the hammock posts directly into the decking frame so everything felt solid, permanent and well integrated.
We have now had this hammock stand for over two years and still use it regularly whenever the weather is nice. It is positioned in what turned out to be the perfect spot, shaded from the strongest sun but still with a great view across the garden. The space has become really versatile as well. We use it for the hammock, a seating area, and even for things like exercise or a game of darts. It has genuinely turned into a proper multi use space that gets used far more than I expected.
If you are looking for posts for decking or trying to figure out how to add hammock posts into your own setup, this is exactly how I did it. The key for me was making sure the decking support posts and the hammock posts were properly anchored into the ground so there is no movement at all when weight is applied. This kind of stand is suitable for a whole range of different hammocks, so you can have more than one. Simply unclip one and clip on another.
How to Build a Hammock Stand on Decking – Step-by-Step guide
Step One – The Outer Decking Frame
The decking frame is the starting point of this project. It’s based on a basic rectagular shape, roughly 25cm from the ground.
- Measure your area and cut the four outer timbers to length. Ensure the two oposite sides are equal in length.
- Mark out the four corners and digg a 1-2ft hole in which the support posts will sit.
- Fill 1/4 of the hole with hardcore rubble. This will provide a strong base for the decking.
- Cut the four corner support posts the the correct depth.
- Treat one end of the post with creosote or another type of wood preserver. This will stop the post from rotting in the soil.
- Place the post in the hole and pour in 5l of water.
- Add Postcrete mix into the hole so that it surrounds the post.
- Mix the Postcrete cement and water until it begins to harden.
- Leave to set for 15 minutes.
- Repeat this process for each of the corner posts.
Step Two – The Inner Decking Frame
Now it’s time to complete the inner frame of the decking with cross support beams.
- Using the same timber, create cross support in the opposite direction that the decking boards will be laid. 90-degrees.
- These can be secured in place using 100mm screws, Apply 3 or 4 in each end.
- Space each beam no more than 50cm apart. Space them closer together for a stronger decking finish. (This is useful if you intend to have heavy items on the decking, like a hot tub.)
- Dig more holes for extra support posts.
- It’s important to have support posts at least every 1m to ensure a strong base.
- Repeat the support post installation process detailed above until you have enough support for the frame.
Step Three – Protecting the Decking Frame
This isn’t essential but I like to protect the frame with a waterproof tape to ensure the deck lasts a long time. This simple step adds about £20 to the cost but will extend the life of your deck by 15 years.
- Measure and cut lengths of tape and apply them to the top of the rafters (beams)
- Ensure each length of tape covers the top of every section of the frame.
- Push the tape over the top and around the edges.
Step Four – Creating the hammock Support Posts
This is the next vital stage to complete the support posts for the hammock. it’s important to use a strong timber of at least 100mm thickness. This will prevent any movement to the post when weigh is applied to the hammock.
- Measure and cut the hammock posts to length. Ensure you measure the height of your hammock, the height of your deck to the floor and add an extra 2ft. This will be burried in the ground.
- Find the location of each post. To do this you can measure your hammock. Measure the length and width. Ensure you have some room to swing the hammock on the decking without bumping into anything.
- Add an extra ~10cm to the length to allow for karabiner hooks which will hold the hammock to the posts.
- Dig a hole about 2ft deep into the ground. Place some hardcore in the bottom and compact it with the post.
- Place the post in the ground and fill with Postcrete as in the first step of this guide. Ensure the posts are level by using a spirit level.
- Allow the cement to set.
- Add additional support around the posts to secure in place. Attach these to the decking frame for a super strong hold.
Step Five – Test the Strength and Add Additional Support if Required
It is vital that the support posts are solid and don’t move at all. Test each post by leaning against it with all your weight. If you feel like there is any movement, ad some additional support around the base.
- Cut some timbers to size and span them across the frame.
- Secure timber to the beams and side frame where possible.
- Strengthen each post with additional screws.
- Larger screws will provide a stronger hold. Use 100mm screws where possible.
Step Six – Add the Decking Boards
Now it’s time to secure the decking boards in place.
- Cut each board to length.
- Starting from the outer edge (the edge visible at the front of the decking), work your way across the deck.
- Use 6mm spacers in between each board to allow for expansion and contraction.
- Secure the decking boards to the frame using ~60mm decking screws. Secure two screws at each intersecting frame timber.
- Cut the decking boards around the hammock support posts using a jigsaw. Measure and cut these carefully to ensure no gaps are left. Allow a 2mm gap for expansion.
Step Seven – Add Support Anchors on the Posts
We added these heavy-duty eyelet bolts to ensure a good, strong hold for the hammock.
- Measure and mark where the eyelet bolt will be added
- Drill a 8mm hole through the support posts
- Insert the eyelet bolt and secure with a nut.
- You can counter-sink the far side so that the bolt sits within the post.
Step Eight – Stain or Paint the Decking and Posts
The final stage is to stain or paint the timber.
- Clean the decking with a broom or power hose. (allow to dry)
- Apply the paint or stain using a brush or decking pad.
- Apply two or three coats for a long lasting finish
Now you can hang your hammock and adjust as required.
Conclusion
Looking back, building the hammock posts into the decking frame was definitely the right decision. It keeps everything stable, saves space, and means I do not need to worry about moving a separate stand around the garden.
The most important part of the whole build was taking the time to install the decking support posts properly and making sure the hammock posts in the ground were completely secure. Once that foundation is solid, the rest of the decking comes together quite easily.
If you are thinking about adding posts for a decking frame or building your own DIY hammock posts, I would really recommend this approach. It is affordable, practical, and gives you a space that you will actually use all the time.
For me, it has turned into a quiet spot to unwind, exercise, or just enjoy the garden. With a bit of planning and care, you can create something just as strong and long-lasting for your own space.
If you are new to decking and would like some more inspiration, you can read my in-depth guide on how to build a decking area. It covers two main processes for completing a decking build from scratch.
How much does a hammock stand cost to build yourself?
Excluding my decking, this hammock stand only costs about £40. That’s the cost of the 100mm support posts, a couple of bags of Postcrete, some construction timber, two eyelet bolts and a handful of screws.
How long does it take to build a hammock stand?
This hammock stand took about three days to complete with the decking. If you are retrofitting the stand, then it wouldn’t take more than 4 hours.
For complex decking projects or installations requiring electrical work and utilities planning, consulting with professional building services consultants ensures your outdoor construction meets all relevant building codes and safety standards whilst optimising functionality and
long-term performance.
Can I leave a hammock stand in the rain?
This hammock stand is designed to be in the rain all year round but it will require annual treatment to ensure the wood doesn’t rot. Applying a coat or two of stain or paint will ensure it lasts for many, many years.
Happy Hammock Building
If you have any questions about this build or any of my other builds please feel free to reach out and I’ll do my best to answer them. leave a comment below with your email address and I’ll get back to as soon as I can.
