A strong, sturdy trunk and branches. Roots that are deep and well-established! No evidence of disease or parasites that could weaken the tree.
For a standard 8’x8’ treehouse, choose a tree with a trunk at least 12" in diameter. To calculate your tree’s diameter, measure its circumference by wrapping a string or measuring tape around the trunk at the point where you want the treehouse to sit. Divide that number by pi (3. 14) to get the diameter.
You may find it helpful to make a small cardboard model of your tree and treehouse to identify any potential issue areas. In creating your design, don’t forget to plan for tree growth. Allow ample space around the trunk of the tree for the tree to grow. It’s worth doing some research on your specific tree species to determine its growth rate.
The post method. This method involves sinking support posts into the ground close to the tree, rather than attaching anything to the tree itself. It is the least damaging to the tree. The bolt method. Bolting the support beams or floor platform directly into the tree is the most traditional method of supporting a treehouse. However, this method is the most damaging to the tree. You can minimize the damage by using proper materials. The suspension method. In this method, you would suspend the treehouse from strong, high branches using cables, rope or chains. This method will not work for every design, and it is not ideal for treehouses that are meant to carry any significant weight.
The standard ladder. You can purchase or build an ordinary ladder for climbing into your treehouse. A ladder made for bunk or loft beds can work as well. The rope ladder. This is a ladder made of rope and short boards, which is hung from the treehouse platform. The staircase. A small staircase is the safest access method if it’s compatible with your vision of a treehouse. If you choose this method, make sure to build a railing for safety.
Don’t build too high. Building your treehouse too high could be dangerous. If your treehouse is going to be used mostly by children, the platform should not be any higher than 6–8 feet (1. 8–2. 4 m). Construct a safe railing. The point of your railing, of course, is to make sure that the treehouse occupants don’t fall out. Make sure the railing around your platform is at least 36" high, with balusters no more than 4" apart. Cushion a fall. Surround the area below the treehouse with a soft natural material like wood mulch. This won’t entirely prevent injury, but it will provide some cushioning for a fall.
Now when the tree sways in the wind, the platform actually moves a bit to accommodate the swaying. If the platform were simply bolted onto the tree, it would move along with the tree. This is not good for the platform, as it could gradually or suddenly be pushed in different directions and begin cracking.
Pre-drill both the tree and the 2x10s for an easier time installing the screws, and to minimize cracking in your boards. Undercut both supports at each for an aesthetic finish. Of course, do this before mounting the supports to the trunk with your screws. Consider doubling up each support with another 2x10 for added strength. In effect use two 2x10s on each side of the trunk, flush against one another. This allows the supports to bear more weight. If you do decide to double up on your supports, use bigger lag screws (at least 8" long and 1" diameter).
Cut a 45-degree angle out of the top ends on each 2x4. This is so that you can attach the 2x4 to the inside of the platform. Form a “V” with your 2x4 so that they overlap at a straight part of the tree but also cleanly abut onto the inside of the platform. Attach the top of the bracing to the platform from the bottom and on the inside. Make sure both are completely flush before you drive nails into them. Drive an 8" lag screw through the overlapping 2x4s at a sturdy point on the tree. Use a washer between the 2x4s and the lag screw for the best results.
Use whatever you want for siding. You can successfully use meshed-together rope if you want, as long as little kiddies cannot slip through. Safety should be the first priority, especially when you’re dealing with small children.
Build a rope ladder Build a ladder using 2 12-foot 2x4s and 2 8-foot 2x3s. Place the 2x4s side by side in perfect symmetry, marking off where each rung should go. Cut out 2x3 notches about 1 1⁄8 inches (2. 9 cm) deep into both sides of the 2x4s. Cut the 2x3s the appropriate length for rungs and glue them into their notches with wood glue. Secure your rungs with deck screws and wait for the glue to dry. Stain your ladder to give it a nice hue and protect it from the elements.
Next, build four outriggers several feet high and attach them to the four corners of your railing. Nail the tarp to the four corners of the outriggers, securing with a washer. Now your roof should have a better overhang.
