Backyard set up...distance between poles

[MattB]

I used 12' tall 4x6 posts set 4’ down (38” frost line) space at 15’ so a 16’ 2x6 could be the span. No movement at all.

[kquest]

Hi Shug,


I plan on using 10' 4 X 4 treated posts 13' apart 6' above ground 4' below. the one thing I am confused about, what is the best anchoring material, All the youtube videos seem to use quick set post cement, but this forum seems to suggest gravel. Which is better (more secure) and why. Please advise.
I am installing these tomorrow, so I need some quick advice, concrete or gravel, and why.

P.S. your videos got me interested in hammock camping. Thank you!

[kquest]

Hi,

I am about to set the posts and I really need to know why gravel is better than quick set post cement. Is gravel stronger than concrete? I have used the quick set post cement before, and notice I get some movement in the posts after a year or so. So I'm re- doing them, and I want them to be "rock solid this time .Also, what do you recommend for the overhead "beam".

I am going to use the 13' distance, 10 ' 4 X 4s treated 4' sunk in the ground 6' above ground.

[bkrgi]

Hi,

I am about to set the posts and I really need to know why gravel is better than quick set post cement. Is gravel stronger than concrete? I have used the quick set post cement before, and notice I get some movement in the posts after a year or so. So I'm re- doing them, and I want them to be "rock solid this time .Also, what do you recommend for the overhead "beam".

I am going to use the 13' distance, 10 ' 4 X 4s treated 4' sunk in the ground 6' above ground.

Spend the extra coin on 6x6 posts.... they will be way more secure than any 4x4. I would do 15' min spacing using 12' posts (can hang your tarp higher up this way)
Just back fill your hole with your subsoil but tamp it as you fill...if your on sand then fill with concrete to better anchor your posts

[Rolloff]

Gravel will allow for drainage, concrete will cause water to pool around the post prematurely rotting the wood.

[kquest]

Hi, Thank you to all who have given advice. I appreciate your suggestions. I have included some photos of the setup.
I'm sorry, I missed out on the suggestion about the 6 x 6s. I used 12' 4 x 4s sunk 4'deep (in gravel), 14' apart and used a 1/2" steel pipe as a cross beam. I plan on coating the pipe and flanges with "Plasti Dip spray to add a rubberized coating to the steel pipe, which will act as my tarp "ridgeline" I live in a city, and wanted to make the setup blend into the surroundings. It seems to be "rock" solid, but time will tell.IMG_20190918_184337823.jpgIMG_20190918_184415310.jpgIMG_20190918_184345155.jpgIMG_20190918_184429214.jpg

[Crazytown3]

kquest that looks great! Nice job on the 'blend in'. I think it's going to serve you well.

[kquest]

Hi Crazytown 3,

Thanks for the nice comments. I hung out last night, and the setup worked great. (rock solid) We had a little rain last night, and there's nothing quite like the sound of rain on the tarp. Images of set up in "porch mode" IMG_20190921_172458420.jpgIMG_20190921_172506508.jpg