How to Build a Treehouse

Enlarge Image Image Gallery Treehouse plans come in all shapes and sizes. Before you're resting in a hammock in your dream treehouse, check out these useful building tips. JO SCHEER

A treehouse is a place where you can give free rein to your individual creativity. But while there may be almost as many types of treehouses as there are types of trees, some general principles do apply when it comes to building a treehouse. (For creative examples of custom treehouses, see Treehouse Living: 4 Custom, Eco-friendly Options.)

Before you begin your treehouse plans, check with your local planning authorities about whether there are any restrictions on building treehouses. In some places, if a structure is below a certain size and not used as a permanent dwelling it will not need planning approval, but there may be restrictions on height or on windows overlooking adjacent properties.

Safety is vital during construction. Always use a safety harness, and firmly tie it and any ladders to a strong branch. Think before you act, and keep a first aid kit handy. Most importantly: Have fun!

First Steps

First, you need to choose a tree and decide on a position within it for your treehouse. Think about what you want from your treehouse: Will it be an adult hideaway or children's play area? If you are considering a treehouse for children, keep it close to the ground: 5 feet (1.5 meters) is fine, and seems much higher when you are up there.

Consider whether you want your treehouse to be hidden or visible, and make sure it will not disturb other people.

Choose a mature, healthy tree with no special protection orders on it that may affect pruning. When selecting a tree it is best to consult a qualified arborist, and if any pruning is necessary have this done professionally. Decide how you want to access your treehouse and what materials you want to use. Whatever you decide, it's best to start small and simple.

Every tree is different, so let the tree be your guide. Follow the form of the tree, allow for growth and movement, and keep the structure lightweight. Keep the various positions of the sun in mind when planning small decks as well. It you don't have one tree that seems right, then several closely spaced, smaller trees will suffice; these may be supplemented with one or more posts sunk in the ground. Although some treehouse builders advocate a free-form approach, it's safest to plan the structure on paper before starting work. Allow for a deck if you want one, and don't make the treehouse too big for the tree.

Building a Platform

The platform, providing a secure foundation for the rest of the structure, is the key element of almost any treehouse. It should be built close to the trunk, with diagonal bracing for extra strength, if it is not supported by branches or posts. Make sure the platform is level, and keep it balanced centrally around the tree to support uneven loads and reduce swaying. When securing the structure, do everything you can to limit damage to the tree. Rope lashing is preferable to nails, but make sure you know the right knots. Otherwise, choose strong galvanized or stainless steel coach (lag) screws, as ungalvanized nails will rust and encourage disease and rot. Don't cut the bark all the way round, or constrict it too tightly with rope or wire — this can quickly kill the tree.