Ceiling – Hang indoor swing chair BETWEEN two ceiling joists

ceilinghanging

I purchased one of those indoor hanging swing chairs for kids, specifically this one, which is meant to be mounted in the ceiling with a single eye bolt.
shop image
I want to hang this in a 38" space, between wall and bookshelf. This is pretty tight, so I need to mount pretty much in the middle. After finding the joists using a studfinder I found they are 24" apart in pretty much the worst place, a few inches near each side of the 38" space. In fact, directly between them is pretty much dead center.

My question is what options I might have to hang this swing (single strap) between the joists?

One idea is to attach a board between (what size? Attached how?). I do have access to the attic, there is some kind of loose insulation up there.

Another idea is to attach two eye bolts of some kind to the joists on each side and suspend with some kind of strap between, but again not sure the hardware I should use to do that.

Any suggestions are welcome. Thanks!

Best Answer

You've hit on three viable options. I'll make some notes on each so you can decide.

Run a cleat across the gap

  • Requires perhaps the most damage to the finished ceiling, but simple and fairly easy
  • A 2x6 laid flat against the ceiling will carry the weight just fine (avoid boards with large knots)
  • Four 3-1/2" by 3/8" lag screws, properly piloted into the ceiling joists, will carry well.

Run backing in the attic

  • Least visible option, but most challenging due to attic work
  • Use a 2x4 oriented vertically (like the ceiling joists) between the trusses
  • Anchor with substantial lag screws and also consider laying another board across the top of everything, connecting that with lags or 3" construction screws
  • Locate the eye bolt carefully so you're anchored well

Span between two eye bolts with chain

  • Probably the simplest and quickest option, but most likely to cause issued in your drywall such as nearby screw pops since it puts the most lateral stress on the ceiling joists
  • To reduce lateral force which could bend or move your eye bolts (potentially shifting the ceiling joists), run your chain or cable down far enough so you have an angle less than 45 degrees to vertical, and consider using a rigid bar between the chains near the ceiling to direct force to vertical
  • Hang on both chains with an S-hook or proper carabiner (not a novelty item)
Related Topic