You’ll also need to check for protruding nails or screws, rough wooden surfaces that need to be sanded, any exposed electrical wiring, and more. Sure, you thought about safety start-to-finish with this project, but before you let the kids start stomping around in their new lofty clubhouse, try to think through every way they could hurt themselves and then mitigate those potential issues.
How to build a treehouse FAQs
How much does it cost to build a treehouse?
The cost of building a treehouse can vary considerably based on costs of labor and materials in your area, the scope and size of the project, and whether or not you use a kit or are planning to build your treehouse from scratch, but you can assume you’ll be spending at least a few thousand dollars. According to data we sourced from the company Treehouse Supplies, the average treehouse cost is around $7,350, with some projects costing as much as $15,000 or more.
Is it legal to build a treehouse?
In most places, yes, you can legally build a treehouse on your own private property. But everything from zoning laws to attractive nuisance ordinances may play a role in treehouse size, placement, and other factors. The structure may need to be fenced off from public areas, there may be limits to height and size, there will almost surely be rules relating to running electricity, and more. When in doubt, check with your city or town to be sure you’re not running afoul of any local laws or ordinances when building a treehouse.
How can I minimize tree damage when making a treehouse?
“When building in nature, it’s essential to minimize harm,” Wang says. “Avoid damaging the bark and roots, as they’re vital for the tree’s health. Floating brackets and tension-based fasteners are excellent alternatives to nails or screws that penetrate too deeply.” And be sure to leave room for the tree to grow and for it to move slightly with the wind.
Harvey says: “The way you attach your treehouse will have a direct impact on the tree’s health. Ideally, you’ll want to use a floating platform design—one that doesn’t attach directly to the tree, but rests on it. This allows the tree to grow without cutting into its bark. Using treehouse bolts (through bolts with washers) helps, as it keeps the tree from being over-pressured.”
Also, make sure the tree will still get enough water from rain, and consider giving its roots a soaking now and then if it seems it isn’t.
How to stay safe when building a treehouse
For starters, always mitigate the chance of falls by using good, sturdy ladders and even a harness and ropes to be extra safe. Be sure to choose a healthy, sturdy tree, quality materials, proper anchor systems and hardware, and use common sense—avoiding building near wiring, be sure not to make the treehouse too high up, wear gloves as you work, and consider wearing a hard hat.
