In this handy guide, you'll find relevant information about hammock history, hammock categories, choice, installation and maintenance. If you need additional information, do not hesitate to contact us. ENJOY!
SMALL HISTORY OF HAMAC
Who hasn’t seen a hammock in a house, garden or park? Colourful and inviting, they decorate our home by bringing an exotic touch. We particularly like them for napping, resting, reading a book, sipping a drink or just plain leisure. etc. Yes, the hammock has carved a place of choice in our daily lives. But this versatile piece of furniture, before being an instrument of relaxation and decoration, served as abed centuries ago and is still used as such in certain regions of the world.
The word hammock comes from the Spanish hamaca, but its origin goes back to Latin America. The exact region of his invention was not known. Some attribute it to the Taïnos Amerindians who once occupied the Greater Antilles, others to the Mayan civilization and some to the Indians of the Amazonian forests. It does not matter who gets the prize; the roots of the hammock can be traced back almost 1000 years, making it one of the oldest pieces of furniture in the history of humanity. Originally it was a hanging bed between two trees was made from plant tissues, lianas and roots; transformed into strong and flexible ropes and tied together. It was used to relax and sleep while protecting against moisture, insects or dangerous critters.
They then became popular and inspired the other indigenous populations, spreading into many countries of Latin America. When Christopher Columbus discovered America at the end of the fifteenth century, he spoke of men sleeping among trees in hammocks. Fascinated by this discovery, the sailors began to use them on their boats. Thus, they gained space, without forgetting that they could sleep more calmly because the movements of the ship were attenuated by the rockings of the hammock. It is also thanks to the sailors that hammocks became known throughout the world. They underwent some modifications however: not knowing that it was necessary to lie diagonally in a hammock, one shut oneself up once inside. To keep it open and to facilitate access, wooden bars were added at the ends, to the detriment of stability. This is where the myth of the hammock “tippiness” comes from. In reality, one does not fall off a hammock well installed than off a bed!
Subsequently, the net hammock turned into a fabric hammock was developed in particular in Brazil. It was used daily by millions of people in South America, Africa and Asia. It was not until the early 19th century that the hammock began to be known and used in North America.
CATEGORIES OF HAMACS
Nowadays the hammock has been marketed and we find it everywhere in the world. Although manufacturing technologies (textiles, weaving, dyeing) have evolved over time, the hammock industry has undergone little change. The principle stays the same; first weave the body of the hammock and then lay the ropes or arms. However, the design and, of course, the quality may vary depending on the quality and quantity of yarn and the method of weaving or braiding. Lower production costs and cheap labour have unfortunately affected the hammock industry. One must, therefore, be wary of dubious quality imitations made in Asia. Remember, a hammock is not just a hanging fabric rectangle, a camp bed or a large hanging net, an air bag or a hammock-shaped bag, a hanging chair with frame and footrest! All this is a cruel deformation of the original noble hammock. We do not sell our soul to the devil to sell them!
There are different types of hammocks today:
Woven hammock:
The cotton fabric hammock is made mainly in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Ecuador. The real canvas hammocks made of cotton are made on looms and completely finished by hand. They are of varying sizes and strengths. They are often fringed and can be considered a decorative piece. A cotton fiber hammock, when first used, stretches somewhat at first, until it finds its definitive shape. Without a doubt it is the most comfortable hammock with perfect balance, for one, two or three people. Be wary of dubious quality imitations made in Asia.
Net hammock:
These are most often from Mexico(Yucatán) and are made of cotton or nylon. This lightweight hammock, which is very transportable, is entirely handmade by artisans who have passed on this know-how from father to son. This is the typical Mayan hammock from southeastern Mexico. It provides excellent comfort. The finer the thread is, the higher the quality.
Hammock chair:
The hammock chair, unlike the hammock itself, is a contemporary piece of furniture. It can be made of cotton fabric or mesh made of natural or synthetic fiber. Tsking up little space, you can sit in it or recline in it. Be careful, a real hammock chair does not need a solid footrest.
Hammock with sticks:
Made mainly in Central America and the United States, this type of hammock is the fruit of a Western invention. As the first settlers settled on the length of the hammock, they locked themselves in, they had the idea to add wooden bars , which has compromised the stability. However, this type of hammock is majestic and aesthetic especially if it is well designed and we know how to use it. It immediately becomes a good place to rest.
Camping hammock:
Designed more recently, this type of hammock is made of synthetic material ultra light and resistant for camping or hiking. It can be found in single or double format with or without integrated mosquito net and domed roof. Some are even designed for extreme conditions. To each his own!
HOW TO CHOOSE?
There are different types of hammocks on the market. That does not make chosing easy! To choose your hammock, it is necessary to take into consideration the following factors:
The location :
You often look at a space in the backyard, your balcony or a room inside the house and you say, "It will be nice to have a hammock, except that I don’t know if I have enough room! ". In reality, in almost any available space you can install a hammock. We learned that well by fitting demonstrator models in our shop. What's more, truckers have already bought our hammocks to install in their cabins. Before shopping for your hammock, check and measure where you plan to install a hammock. For a 1-seater hammock, allow at least 2.75 m (9 feet) between the two anchor points, although it is possible to pull a hammock in a distance as small as 2.13 (7 feet)! You just have to anchor the hammock loops a little higher or use one or two length adapters (exclusive to the hammock house). A distance of 3.65 m (12 feet) and more will be ideal for intermediate hammocks or 2 places. In a small place, you can opt for a hammock chair. A minimum height of 1.82 m (6 feet) is required. It goes without saying that if the distance or the height are greater than the size of the hammock, one can use an adaptor.
Use :
What you plan to do with your hammock is also a deciding factor. A good nap tempts you? Surrender yourself in a woven hammock or net. Do you prefer to cover yourself and make a cocoon? The hammocks without wooden bars are easy to model according to your taste. Do you like your hammock to remain open? The hammock with wooden bars, would be a good option. In addition to being welcoming, they offers an exotic touch to your yard or garden. It is nevertheless necessary to conquer this type of hammock because some models can be “tippy”. Removable wooden sticks can also be installed on woven hammocks. If tending to and caring for your hammock is not your thing, think of a synthetic one. They are weatherproof, but you should avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays. For indoor use, the comfortable and cozy cotton hammock remains an excellent choice.
If you are thinking of using a nomadic hammock, it is better to favour a light and easy to carry hammock. Camping-style hammocks have the advantage of being light and waterproof. On the other hand, since they are made of synthetic fibers, the level of comfort may be poor compared to cotton fiber hammocks. Toting a hammock when travelling in tropical regions cen be a life saver. Your hammock will serve as a bed and protect you from moisture and a host of dangerous animals and insects. You will understand why the local population loves their hammocks! We also advise you to bring a mosquito net for a hammock and a tarp (to be installed on your hammock); precautions that prove very useful.
The maximum load or capacity:
La Maison du Hamac requires manufacturers test all hammocks with a weight load exceeding the specified maximum load. However, for safety reasons, each hammock has a maximum load capacity. It is important to remember that the hammock is subject to a load of weight higher than your weight when you settle in it. By spreading your weight, you help your hammock adapt better where the usefulness of sleeping diagonally. However, depending on the use and measurement of the user, several choices are available to you. It must be taken into account that not all hammocks have the same dimensions and they do not have the same weight capacity either. A large hammock is not always a hammock suitable for 2 people. Characteristics such as the quality of the yarn, the density of the weaving, the number of ropes, not to mention the know-how of the craftsman, are determining factors.
Size: This factor is closely related to the maximum load of a hammock, which often determines its size. If you are looking for a hammock for yourself, a single or intermediate model will suffice. Obviously, there is nothing stopping you from choosing a two-seater hammock if you have enough space, even if you use it alone. As you move diagonally in the hammock, you will not lock yourself in and you will have more room. You can even lie on your stomach in a big hammock! On the other hand, if you plan to use your hammock for two or for the whole family, be sure to choose a hammock with two places. If you chose a hammock chair, be forewarned that the size an be deceiving. Although the capacity can be up to 300 lbs and there is lots of room, it is tricky to balance more than one person at a time.
The budget :
There is a proverb that says, "I am not rich enough to buy cheap." It sounds paradoxical but it's a fact; if you buy inexpensive, you will have to replace it very soon. In addition, inexpensive products often end up in expensive repairs make, which can quickly become frustrating! In the end you lose more money. It is better to pay a little more to avoid future expenses or disappointments.
This is especially true when it comes to choosing a hammock. The low price is never a guarantee of quality especially when it comes to trust a hammock supposed to support you and your family. An authentic hammock, just like a product protected by an appellation such as Champagne or Cognac can not be done anywhere,anyhow. A Brazilian, Mexican or Colombian style hammock is indeed an authentic hammock. The dubious quality imitations sold online are made in Asia in order to save money and increase profit margins, without any regard to ethical trade or consumers.
The amount of ropes is not enough. They are elastic and break quickly, the fabric is loose and they will lose their consistency, the arms of the hammock are unbalanced, the colours fade in the wash, the list goes on! There is no way to replace 1000 years of hammock know-how in Latin America. A hammock from Latin America is synonymous with comfort, quality and durability.
And beware, it is not enough that the hammock is made in Latin America to claim it is of quality.Sometimes necessary to beware of hammocks intended for tourists and sold on the sly! Always concerned about the quality of our hammocks, we make them do according to our standards by famous manufacturers and pay a fair price for them. Our prices leave us a reasonable profit margin whereby we don’t have to compromise our quality. Cheap has never been part of our jargon. La Maison du Hamac is not a fly by night operation. We are a bricks and mortar operation that also sells online to cater to the needs of our clients. By buying at La Maison du Hamac, you are sure to get a reasonably priced hammock with unsurpassed quality, advice and after-sales service.
And finally: If in doubt, you can submit your project with your measurements and your criteria. We will study for you several possibilities to help you make an informed choice. Rely on our long experience. Relaxation in a hammock is a blessing that should not wait! After all, that's why La Maison du Hamac exists.
INSTALLATION:
That's it! You finally have the hammock you so desired. Now to decide where and how to install it.
La Maison du Hamac provides you with a leaflet with technical specifications and installation instructions with your purchase of the hammock. If you opted for a hammock stand, you can forego those worries. However, there is nothing stopping you from installing your hammock between two trees, two walls, two columns or any other solid anchor points.
The logic of installing a hammock is based on two interrelated factors: the distance between the two anchor points and the height of these from the ground. From the outset, we must not forget that any new hammock, especially those made of natural fibers, stretches a little after use. The golden rule is to give a small curve to the hammock, like a slight smile. The hammock will take its perfect shape later. The hammock loops can be anchored at the shoulder or even a little higher with the middle of the hammock at the waist or mid-thigh. We advise you to deploy and place your hammock between the two desired anchor points. This allows you to locate the ideal height and consider, if necessary, one or two extensions to adjust the distance. For fixed anchors, we offer hooks for wood, concrete or brick. For use in various locations or installation between two trees, it is possible to use a strap extension or solid rope in sufficient length. For more comfort, it is recommended to fix the loops of the hammock at the same height.
As for a hammock chair? The advantage of installing a hammock chair is that it only requires one vertical anchor point. We can think of a tree branch, a beam, a wooden or concrete ceiling, a gazebo, a solarium, a stairwell, etc. If necessary you can use a strap extension, chain or spring to adjust the height. The ideal installation allows you to sit in the hammock chair even more ergonomically than on a chair or lounge chair, making it an ideal tool for various therapies. If you intend to install the anchor of your hammock chair in a concrete or wood ceiling, we offer a range of accessories in the accessories section. We advise the use of the spring which in addition to adjusting the height serves to absorb the load on the anchor while giving more flexibility and a swivel whose role is to allow to make rotations without unscrewing the anchoring or twisting the ropes. They are convenient for use with children or to make therapeutic movements.
And finally, remember that the installation of a hammock, beyond the instructions and advice, may vary depending on each location, material and anchor. Logic and common sense always remain your most reliable benchmarks. The key is to make sure the hammock is safely installed. If necessary, do not hesitate to call in a contractor specialized in construction-renovation.
Summary :
As we all know, the hammock is synonymous with leisure and what's more relaxing than using your hammock outside during the hot summer months? Whether used indoors or outdoors, your hammock quickly becomes an indispensable element in your daily life and we dedicate a special attachment to it. Therefore, here are some basic interview tips to help you enjoy your relaxation companion longer:
Let's keep in mind a basic principle; the hammock is above all a manufactured object and its enemies are prolonged exposure to the external elements such as the UV rays, humidity and dust, not to mention the potential presence of the small critters. The golden rule is to store your hammock dry when you are not using it regularly. Hammocks made of natural fibers should be stored more often. If the hammock is wet, make sure it is dry before folding it. This avoids mold. Keep your hammock out of direct sunlight it can discolour and UV rays eventually alter the fibers. You can also apply a fabric protector to your hammock. Small animals are sometimes attracted by the hammock that may be used as food or material for making the nest! Some owners have even seen their hammock squatted by visitors more imposing like bears! Hammocks made of synthetic fibers, although more resistant.
Proper use of the hammock is also an important factor in improving the longevity of the hammock. Do not load your hammock beyond its maximum load capacity and make sure it does not rub against the tree trunk, wall or any other object that could damage it. Avoid shoes, buttons, jewelry or other sharp objects when using a mesh or rope hammock. If one or more wires inadvertently break, tie them immediately to prevent it from forming a gaping hole. If you are thinking of putting away your hammock at the end of summer, take some precautions to avoid surprises in the spring:
- check your hammock well to make sure it does not show signs of wear or breakage. If this is the case, have it checked and repaired by La Maison du Hamac specialists;
- Make sure your hammock is dry and there are no leaves or insects in it. If necessary, clean or wash it. Sometimes shaking it well and wiping with a damp cloth will suffice;
- Always store your hammock indoors, not in a shed.
And yes, a well maintained hammock has a long life. That benefits to be able to enjoy even more of your hammock!
Our metal stands are treated against bad weather. However, it is best to store them during the winter. To facilitate assembly and disassembly, we advise you to undo the stand at the end of the summer and to clean the outer surface of the parts with a cloth and a mild detergent and dry them. Avoid strong and abrasive cleaners. To preserve the finish, apply some car wax and rub with a chamois cloth. Lubricate the fitting parts with industrial lubricant spray and remove the excess with an absorbent cloth.
Wooden stands require more maintenance. It is important to store them at the end of summer and to apply a waterproofing stain for wood that not only enhances the wood's appearance, but also protects it from moisture and UV rays.
Finally, it is very important to place your sand on a flat surface to avoid deformation of parts.