Has lockdown and the pandemic got to you? Your not the only one. But what can you do when you’re stuck in your house all day to make it a more fun environment to spend time in and to take your mind away from the COVID situation?
You could build yourself a treehouse. Some say this is the pinnacle of sustainable living. This will give you an excellent space to withdraw to when your other friends or family members are annoying you. Or it could even a place for your children to play in.
But how should you go about building a DIY treehouse? Here’s everything you need to know.
Planning Is Everything
The key to building great treehouses is planning. Like everything in life without great planning, nothing will go to plan and your treehouse won’t get built on time or be of sufficient quality.
Decide how many rooms you want your treehouse to be and how spacious you want it to the right from the start.
If you are struggling with the design for your treehouse and you really want to go all out you could hire a designer or an architect to draw up some plans for you. If you don’t have the money to commission them then you could just as easily hire them to take a look at plans you finish yourself.
Chose the Right Trees
One of the key decisions you need to make when you are constructing a DIY treehouse is what tree to use.
If you are building your tree in your back garden, evaluate your garden for sturdy trees that could hold the weight of a treehouse.
The first step is to ensure that there is no deadwood on any of the trees in your garden, this will rule out building a treehouse. You also want to make sure that none of the trees are rotten. This might result in you having the tree chopped down.
A tree with many study branches is one that is likeliest to hold a DIY treehouse comfortably. Maple trees, oaks, or ash trees are all examples of tree types that would suit a treehouse. They are large and can stand the test of time and unusual weather conditions.
Remember that the climate of where you live is also going to play into your decisions about your DIY treehouse. If you live in California you will need to ensure your treehouse and the tree you build it on can provide adequate shade. If, however, you build your DIY treehouse in Maine or one of the northern states you need to account for bad weather like storms and snow.
Grab the Right Tools
If you are serious about constructing a DIY treehouse then you are going to need some great tools to help you on your way. Be sure to raid your nearest DIY store or Home Garden center to see what power tools they have available.
If these stores are closed due to lockdowns, then be sure to order online using Amazon or another online service instead.
You will need:
- Saw
- Hammer
- Level
- Square
- Tape Measure
- Wrench (adjustable)
- Jigsaw
- Cordless drill
These power tools will speed up the process of your DIY treehouse can make sure that you can chop the wood easily. Hand tools can take up valuable time. You don’t want to break out in an unnecessary sweat.
Build the Platform
Next, you need to build the platform on which your DIY treehouse will sit. Build this on the ground level and then raise it. All the best treehouse ideas have platforms to ensure they are safe.
Measure the planks of wood carefully. Make sure you use high-grade wood in your design and be sure to make sure they are interlocked in place tightly. You don’t want to cause an accident by skipping this step.
Be sure to search for some expert advice online if you are struggling where there is lots of good advice.
If your platform is going to disturb your neighbors because it overlooks their property be sure to hire fencing contractors who might be able to fence off your garden for you to prevent disputes.
Put Up Tree Braces
One thing your treehouse might need is braces to ensure that the weight is spread evenly throughout the tree instead of concentrated in one place.
Braces will usually be diagonal but their exact placement and the amount you need will depend on the design of your tree.
Be sure to consult with a health and safety expert who can advise you on what braces you need to include. There may also be some local planning laws that stipulate how many and what kind of braces you need to include.
Not following local planning laws could lead to heavy fines and the removal of your treehouse so be sure to seek advice before you start building.
Building a DIY Treehouse Can Be a Great Lockdown Project
Building a DIY treehouse can be a great lockdown project which can enable you to spend time with your children. Equally a DIY treehouse can be a sanctuary from which to escape from your children.
Be sure to follow local planning laws and to purchase the correct tools to enable you to bring your DIY treehouse to life.
If you are interested in reading more about a DIY projects, then be sure to check out the rest of our site.
