Got an old oak tree in the backyard and my 8yo is obsessed with the idea of a treehouse. I've got some 2x6s and 2x4s sitting around, but I want to make sure I do this safely. Anyone here built one before? What's the minimum platform size you'd recommend? Don't want it too high but want the kids to actually feel like they're up there.
This is right up my alley. I'm basically a professional pillow fort architect at this point, and I'm telling you a treehouse is the next level. Make sure you're checking that oak tree for structural integrity first - get an arborist if you need to. Safety first, then fun.
Our living room is permanently a fort but we haven't tackled a treehouse yet. That's goals right there. What's your building experience like? Are you going full DIY or using a kit?
My kid would lose his mind over a treehouse. The fact that your 8yo is obsessed means he'll actually help with the build which makes it even better. Have you thought about adding a pulley system or anything fancy?
Safety first on this one. Make sure your platform is rock solid and those railings are up to code. An 8yo falling from a treehouse is the nightmare scenario. But if you build it right, that's a memory he'll have forever.
An 8yo obsessed with a treehouse is the dream. My kids would live in ours if I let them. Just be ready for the requests to sleep out there because that's 100% coming. Also make sure railings are solid and there's a decent ladder situation.
Sign in to join the conversation.
This is awesome. I've assembled basically every piece of IKEA furniture in my house so I'm not scared of projects, but a treehouse is a whole different level. Have you done anything like this before or is this your first big backyard build?
That oak tree sounds perfect for it. Just make sure you're not damaging the tree while you build. Some arborists can actually give you advice on the best way to attach things without killing the branches.