Bringing Childhood Memories to Life
A backyard treehouse is the ultimate childhood dream for many adults. But treehouses aren’t just for kids! With proper planning and design, adults can enjoy the nostalgia and adventure of having their own private treehouse. If you have suitable trees in your San Diego backyard, you may be able to add a treehouse.
Wilson Woodscape isn’t just your ordinary landscape construction company. Our San Diego landscaper contractor, Jeff Wilson, can help you customize your treehouse! Read on to learn what you should consider when adding a treehouse to your backyard.
Choosing the Right Tree
The first step in building a treehouse is picking the right tree. Look for a healthy hardwood tree with a wide trunk at least 12 inches in diameter and robust branches that can support the structure. Oak, maple, beech, and ash trees are common choices as well as evergreens, like pine and fir. You’ll want to have an arborist assess the tree’s health and suitability before building. Consider the tree’s placement, making sure it has clear space around the canopy and area for the treehouse.
In addition to choosing a sturdy tree, it’s important to maintain the tree’s health when designing and building the treehouse. Avoid overloading branches with too much weight and use tree-friendly attachment methods like ropes and cables rather than nails. Don’t strip away too much bark or foliage, as this can bring harm to the tree. A happy, healthy tree will make for a safer, longer-lasting treehouse.
Design and Construction
Basic Must-Have Features & Design
When designing any treehouse, big or small, there are a few key features to include.
- First, build an easy-access ladder or staircase.
- For multi-level houses, add interior ladders between floors.
- Include safety rails around all platforms and openings.
- Make sure to size doorways and interior space appropriately.
- Add roofing and exterior cladding for weather protection.
- And don’t forget the fun extras like swings, slides, trap doors, and climbing walls!
Materials
Wood is the classic treehouse building material. Use exterior-grade plywood for the flooring and framing. Cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant options for siding, railings, and finishing touches. Metal brackets, fasteners, and hardware should be rust-resistant and sturdy. For prefab kits, look for weather-resistant materials like powder-coated steel and aluminum. Apply for local building permits if required.
Budget and Safety
Affordable Options
You don’t need to break the bank to build a fun treehouse. For backyard builds on a budget, here’s what you can do:
- Go for simple wooden platforms on a single tree or between two close trees.
- Add features like basic walls, windows, entrance ladders, and safety rails.
- For roofing, use inexpensive corrugated metal or polycarbonate panels.
- Don’t overlook potential recycled materials like old doors and windows.
- Get creative with cost-effective additions like rope swings, hammocks, flower boxes, and weathervanes.
Safety Considerations
When building a treehouse, safety should always be the top priority.
- Consider the height of the treehouse and use sturdy construction materials.
- Look for healthy trees that can support the structure without being damaged.
- Include safety rails, anchors, and entrance gates where needed.
- Don’t forget little details like covering up nails or screws to prevent injuries.
- Appointing an adult supervisor for younger kids is also a must.
Maintenance
Ongoing Treehouse Care
Perform regular safety inspections checking for rot, loose hardware, splintered wood, and other issues. Monitor your tree’s health, especially if adding more weight from a larger treehouse. Refurbish or replace any worn or damaged materials as needed. A well-built treehouse can last for many years with proper maintenance and care. Protect your investment by keeping it in tip-top shape.
Custom Creative Treehouse Designs and Touches
Once you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time for the fun part — making your treehouse truly one-of-a-kind! With the right planning and design, you’re limited only by your imagination.
- Treehouse shapes run the gamut from simple platforms to multi-level designs, spheres, teardrops, pirate ships, and beyond.
- Customize with lookout towers, swings, fireman’s poles, and slides.
- Include themed decor like a woodsman’s cabin or Harry Potter hideaway.
Bring Your Treehouse Dream to Life
Adding a backyard treehouse is an idyllic and attainable goal for many adults seeking to reconnect with their inner child. With proper tree selection, safety measures, design, and construction, you can make those childhood treehouse memories a reality again. Contact Wilson Woodscape at (619) 838-1398 today to get started designing your ideal treehouse right in your backyard!
