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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
I have 2 trees that are 13 ft apart and I would like to attach a 4x4 post between to hang a benchswing. I've though of bolting directly to trees, but don't know if it would harm tree or kill it? Also though about building 4x4 braces behind trees to hide support. Anybody have any ideas about materials, needs to do this? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 

· the Musigician
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13 ft. span and a 4x4 seems weak to me. how much weight does it need to hold? how many swings?

i'd go with 4x6 bolted to side supports. the trees will thank you, and your swing will not move as the tree grows.

DM
 

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Discussion Starter · #3 ·
500-600 lbs. I would guess would be sufficient. I had actually thought about bolting 4x4 posts on each tree and crossing span with another 4x4 bolted into the tops of the supports. Do you think it would kill the trees to bolt into them like that?
 

· the Musigician
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i would not bolt directly to the trees, no. it can kill them softly. (dying from the inside out, and you don't see the rot till it's laying in your yard)
been there, the kid done that.... but that was a quaking aspen too.....
and a 4x4 is not sufficient to hold 600 lbs on a 13' span IMHO.

DM
 
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