Tree Houses
People around the world live in, play in and enjoy tree houses. Although commonly viewed as a retreat for children, adults are turning to the trees for a little solitude, too. This Web guide helps you find the inspiration and know-how for constructing a tree house for kids or adults. (And you don’t have to be the Swiss Family Robinson to do it.)
Expand All Guide SectionsKids’ Tree House Designs and Photos
Studying photographs or looking at tree house designs can help you and your kids be more creative ... read more »
Building a Tree House
There are some finer points to building a tree house, such as making sure you’ve chosen a tree that can safely support a tree house and the children in it. Learn how to construct the various elements of a tree house using the Web sites recommended below.
Dulcinea's Insight
- If you’re not sure whether the tree you want to use for your tree house is sturdy enough to support the weight of the house, an arborist may be able to tell you for certain. Yellowpages.com can help you search for an arborist in your area.
- Children’s tree houses are generally minor enough that they don’t require a building permit, but it’s often worth checking into just to be sure. Download the International Code Council PDF brochure to learn why building permits are important and the general process that must be followed as you apply for a permit.
Dulcinea's Picks
For instructions on building a tree house …
ServiceMagic
provides some specific characteristics you should look for in a tree that could support a tree house, and also shares some opinions on whether tree house kits are worth what you’ll pay for them.
The Treehouse Guide
has a section filled with short, practical tutorials about several aspects of building a tree house, from choosing a tree to helpful hints that can make construction easier.
DIY Network
also offers step-by-step instructions (with photos) for constructing a tree house. Use these valuable directions to learn how to elevate the tree house, build a roof and make sure the structure is sturdy.
For smaller details…
Woodworking Plan Finder
is a directory of links to hundreds of free woodworking plans. If you’re looking to add some finer details to your tree house, such as homemade shelves or chairs, this is the place to look.
To add playground equipment …
B.Y.O. Swingset
lets you customize the look of playground equipment to add to your tree house. Buy swings for the tree, or other fun accessories like a telescope, binoculars or a rope ladder.
Who knew?
Forever Young Treehouses
is a nonprofit organization that plans to build a universally accessible tree house in every state. Learn about the group’s projects, see photos of the tree houses or find out more about the services offered by Forever Young Treehouses.
Tree Houses for Adults
Tree houses aren’t just for children anymore. For many adults, they’re a trendy way to ... read more »
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