Out of any project you may have to do for your backyard building a treehouse is can be one of the more enjoyable if you keep in mind why you are doing it! But when building a treehouse you need to make sure you plan properly so that you do not spend unnecessary money or time on it. As well as the child’s safety there are other things to think about such as the tree, weather, materials, and so on. But with the right planning the project can run smoothly and you can end up with a tree house your child is proud to play in and invite friends over to.
Placing the Treehouse
Obviously key to a good and safe treehouse is the tree or trees its is built in. Some things to think about when choosing where you are building a tree house are;
- Choose a tree that is strong and big enough to support the tree house. A guide is that the tree should be at least a foot in diameter but then you need to be sure of any tree branches that are supporting it.
- Check the tree for disease.
- Check and remove any dead limbs.
- Think about privacy – you don’t want your neighbor complaining your child is staring in their bedroom window all the time.
- Cut away any other vegetation or obstructions at the base of the tree and make sure it is fairly flat.
- The tree house should not be placed too high in the tree because if they fall it reduces the seriousness of the injury they will receive. Also make sure the tree you select is not close to any power lines or anything else that puts them in danger.
Plans to build a Treehouse
Obviously with the safety of your child at stake it is important you find plans of good quality. You need something that recognizes that trees grow and change and make sure there is enough support. In most cases you may have to make slight modifications to the plans to suit your tree and conditions. Good plans have detailed and clear stages and steps, have illustrations or diagrams and list the materials and tools you need. Measurements should be clear. You can find plans in books, and online.
Personalizing the Treehouse
There are many things you can when building a treehouse to personalize it and make it suit your child. You can build in furniture, have ladder options, add a swing, have a secret entrance or compartments. A tree house will encourage your child to engage in imaginative play, develop their creativity as well as get them moving physically and have them outside in the fresh air. It offers them somewhere to play out of direct sunlight either on their own or with friends.
Though building a treehouse may seem like a daunting task it can be done even by those with less experience as long as you have a good plan. Take your time and be prepared for some hard work but remember it will be worth it when it is completed.
