Netting Mastery: A Comprehensive Guide to Home Netting Installation

Nets have transcended their traditional roles in sports and outdoor activities to become versatile elements of design and utility in both indoor and outdoor settings.

 

From enhancing safety to creating unique recreational spaces, nets offer a range of benefits for your home. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the various uses of nets, considerations for choosing netting materials, and tips for successful installation of both loft and barrier nets.

Exploring Home Nets

Home nets encompass a wide array of netting solutions tailored to different areas of the house. Indoor netting and outdoor netting serve distinct purposes but share common elements in their construction and application. Indoor netting is primarily used for safety, partitioning spaces, or as decorative accents, while outdoor netting is often employed for safety, recreation, or as barriers against pests and debris.

From loft nets to mezzanine nets and hammock nets, home nets offer versatility in function and design. When selecting home netting, consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, and intended use to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

 

 Nets make excellent additions both inside and outside your home

Practical Applications of Nets:

Looking for ideas? Check out our amazing look at netting ideas to enhance your living space! And be inspired by our amazing community of net fanatics on social media.

Here's a quick summary of the many ways nets can enrich your surroundings:

1. Safety Netting

Install safety netting along stair rails, mezzanine edges, or loft floors to prevent falls and injuries, particularly in homes with children or pets.

2. Recreational Spaces

Create inviting recreational spaces with hammock nets, climbing nets, or play netting, offering opportunities for relaxation and active play for family members of all ages.

3. Outdoor Protection

Use outdoor netting to enclose patios, decks, or garden areas, providing protection against insects, debris, and excessive sunlight while maintaining an open-air ambiance.

4. Architectural Features

Incorporate netting into architectural elements such as bridges or loft areas to add visual interest and functionality to interior and exterior spaces.

Choosing the Right Netting Materials

The choice of netting materials plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness and longevity of nets. Common materials used in netting include nylon, polyester, and polypropylene, each offering unique advantages in terms of strength, weather resistance, and UV protection. Additionally, mesh size and thickness influence the net's suitability for specific applications, such as safety netting or play netting.

 

 

 

Types of Netting:

• Cord/Twine Netting: Commonly used as barrier netting or for hammocks, typically constructed from polyester or PE, configured in either a knotted or knotless mesh.
• Web Netting: Typically constructed from nylon, consisting of flat sections woven together like a blanket. Used for commercial netting for lifting and boating, and also functions as barrier protection.
• Rope Netting: Generally made from pro manila or polyester rope, used for lifting or as a climbing or hammock net.

Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers:

When choosing the type of material for your netting there is often a debate between natural or synthetic material. Natural options like bamboo, hemp, or cotton are biodegradable, making them a great option of temporary outdoor fixtures. Natural fibers also tend to have a softer finish that enhances the comfort of lounging. However, drawbacks include lower durability and longevity. Natural materials will degrade much faster than synthetic materials, especially when installed outdoors. Moreover, the production and handling of natural fibers can be more challenging and costly, resulting in a significantly higher price point than synthetic options. Synthetic fibers have the best longevity and strength, making them top pick for weight bearing nets. They also are UV protected, making them less likely to be damaged or bleached by sun exposure. 

Nylon vs. Polyester vs. Polyethylene:

Polyester stands out for its remarkable durability, boasting a high UV and exposure rating that makes it an ideal choice for outdoor installations. Its resistance to stretching and color fade, coupled with less susceptibility to moisture, renders it easy to maintain. On the other hand, Nylon offers similar advantages, although it may not be as UV resistant. Nevertheless, Nylon's feather-light weight makes it a superb option for a hammock when camping or backpacking.

PE (Polyethylene) has many commercial uses due to its low cost and ease of production. PE tends to be less versatile and lower in tensile strength than Nylon and Polyester, PE is a great option for low cost projects. 

 

Materials Thickness and Mesh Spacing:

Material thickness refers to the size of the rope or fiber used in your netting. In hammock netting, you will typically see a material thickness between 6-8mm, but it can go as thick as 16mm. For barrier netting, a material thickness between 4-6mm is common.

Mesh Spacing: Mesh spacing refers to the space between the woven material. For barrier netting, this will often be between 2-4 inches. For hammock and climbing nets, this could range from 1 to 3 inches. Avoid any netting with a mesh spacing more than 4.5-9 inches, as it is considered an entrapment hazard for small children.

 

How to Install a Loft Net: a step-by-step guide

Installing a loft net with anchors can be a great way to create additional storage space or a cozy loft area.

 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Materials and Tools Needed:
- Loft net (custom-sized to fit your space)
- Carabiners or quick links
- Eye bolts or screw hooks
- Drill with appropriate drill bits
- Tape measure
- Pencil or marker
- Ladder or step stool
- Level

Quick Links and Screw Eyes are used to hang indoor nets

Step 1: Measure and Plan

• Determine the Location: Decide where you want to install the loft net. This could be between walls, in a corner, or from the ceiling.
• Adding Structure: Ensure the framed area is structural and can withstand the weight and tension of the net along with any live load such as the weight of persons or objects in the case of hammock netting. If installing into drywall, consider adding blocking or a structural beam attached to studs. We recommend a wood frame that is at least 3” in thickness. 
• Measure the Space: Use a tape measure to get the dimensions of the area where the loft net will be installed. Make sure to measure the length, width, and height to ensure the net will fit properly.
• Mark the Anchor Points: Mark the points where you will install the anchors. These points should be evenly spaced and positioned at the corners and edges of the area where the net will be secured. We recommend anchors not further than 12” apart

Step 2: Install the Anchors

• Choose the Right Anchors: Select anchors that are appropriate for the surface (, wood, concrete, steel etc.). For most wood frames, we recommend high quality screw eyes.Ensure the anchors can support the weight of the net and any additional load.
• Drill Pilot Holes: Using a drill with the appropriate bit size (slightly smaller than the diameter of the anchors or screw eyes if installing into lumber) drill pilot holes where you’ve marked the anchor points. Make sure the holes are deep enough for the anchors.
• Attach Eye Bolts or Screw Hooks: Screw in the eye bolts or chosen anchors. Ensure they are tight and secure, as these will hold the net. For eye bolts and screw eyes, turn in by hand at first, then finish with an appropriate size socket, making sure not to strip the opening

Step 3: Attach the Loft Net

• Lay Out the Net: Spread the loft net on the floor or an elevated surface near the installation area. This will help you to determine how to attach it to the anchors.
• Connect Carabiners or Quick Links: Attach carabiners or quick links to the corners and edges of the net where it will be connected to the anchors.
• Secure the Net to the Anchors: Suspend the net in the frame using ratchet straps or zip ties, ensuring it is centered. Then, secure the corners by attaching the carabiners to the screw eyes. Continue this process on the perimeters until the entire net is attached and suspended in place.
• Check the Tension: Ensure the net is evenly tensioned. Adjust the position of the carabiners or quick links if needed to achieve the desired tautness.

Step 4: Test the Installation

• Inspect the Installation: Carefully inspect all the anchor points and connections to ensure everything is securely attached.
• Test the Load Capacity: Gently apply weight to the net, gradually increasing it to simulate the intended use. Make sure the anchors hold firm and the net stays in place.
• Make Final Adjustments: If the net sags or is too tight, make necessary adjustments by repositioning the carabiners or tightening/loosening the eye bolts or hooks.

Step 5: Final Touches

• Safety Check: Double-check all components for security. Make sure there are no sharp edges or loose elements that could cause injury.
• Enjoy Your Loft Net! Once everything is secure, the loft net is ready to be used.

Following the steps above should help you install your loft net securely and effectively. For more information check out our Netting FAQ

 

How to Install Net Stair Railings: a Step by Step Guide

Installing net stair railings is a great way to enhance safety while also adding a unique aesthetic to your staircase. You can customize the look by choosing nets and carabiners in different colors or materials to match your home’s decor.

 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install net stair railings:

Materials and Tools Needed:
- Stair railing net (cut to fit your staircase dimensions)
- Tape measure
- Pencil or marker
- Ladder or step stool
- Level
- hotknife (for cutting the net, if necessary)
- Heavy duty staple gun and staples

Step 1: Measure and Plan

• Determine the Location: Decide where you want the net railing to be installed along the staircase or platform.
• Measure the Run: Use a tape measure to get the dimensions of the area that the netting will be installed onto, including the length of the area where the net will be installed. For height, we recommend 36-42”.
• Choose Anchor Points: Install railing posts at the desired width apart. If posts are already installed for your railing, decide how you would like to attach to them. 
• Choosing Anchor Method: Once posts have been installed, decide how you want to attach to them. If you plan to have a top rail, you can use the same method as the hammock net in the previous section. You can also use U clamps or heavy duty staples to install netting to the exterior of the posts. For small steel posts, consider attaching the netting using ¼” rope.  

Step 2: Installing the Netting

• Select the Right Anchors: Depending on the surface choose the appropriate type of anchors to hold the net securely.
• Cut netting to size using a hot knife. (if one is not available you can use scissors and singe the edges to prevent fraying)
• Use U clamps or staples to secure nettings to the posts and decking. You can cover this with trim for a cleaner finish!

Step 3: Finishing Touches and Railing Rope

• Adjust Tension: Once the net is fully attached, check the tension. It should be taut but not overly tight. Adjust the position to achieve the desired tautness.
• If no top rail will be added, consider using a large polyester rope
• Secure rope to end posts by either boring through the posts, or wrapping the rope around the posts
• Pass the rope through the top square of netting along the entire run, securing on the final post

 

Step 4: Secure and Finalize

• Inspect the Installation: Double-check all anchor points, carabiners, and the overall net for secure attachment.
• Test the Installation: Apply gentle pressure to the net to ensure it holds firm and is properly tensioned. The net should not sag or move out of place when pushed or pulled.

 

Step 5: Final Safety Check and Maintenance

• Safety Inspection: Ensure there are no sharp edges, loose ends, or weak points that could compromise safety.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the net and anchors for wear and tear, especially if the net is used frequently or subjected to heavy loads.

 

By following these steps, you can successfully install a net stair or deck railing that adds both safety and style. For more information check out our Netting FAQ

 

 

 

General Tips for Installing Nets:

Proper installation is essential to ensure the functionality and safety of nets. Here are some tips to consider when installing indoor and outdoor netting:

Plan Ahead: Measure the installation area accurately and plan the layout of the netting to ensure a precise fit.

Choose Suitable Anchors: Use sturdy anchors and mounting hardware compatible with the surface material to secure the netting firmly in place.

Safety First: Always wear safety goggles and gloves when drilling and handling tools.

Check Weight Limits: Ensure that the net and anchors can support the weight you plan to put on the net, including people or objects.

Regular Inspections: Periodically check the net and anchors for wear and tear to maintain safety.

 

Nets offer a multitude of possibilities for enhancing both indoor and outdoor environments. By understanding the various applications, selecting appropriate netting materials, and following installation best practices, homeowners can transform their spaces into safe, functional, and visually appealing settings. Whether it's creating a cozy loft retreat or ensuring outdoor safety, nets are versatile solutions that can elevate any living space.