The Definitive Treehouse Resource

Need to Know

1. Treehouses are dangerous. Over design yours and be prepared to supervise children who use it.
2. Do not bolt any board directly to more than one tree. Bolt one end, hang one end.
3. Once built, a treehouse will not 'rise as the tree grows'. Trees grow from their tops and they get thicker, but existing parts don't rise. (Trees may separate or get closer to one another, however as the weight at the top pulls them in a particular direction.)
4. Use galvanized screws, or bolts wherever possible, to fasten joints. Do not use nails to hold your treehouse together. Bolted joints are the strongest and last the longest.
5. Predrill holes with a slightly smaller diameter bit before you drive screws, except screws in floor.
6. For small pieces of wood, reclaim wood from old pallets (many hardware and lumber dealers and big box retailers give them away). They're usually made of Oak or Maple. JUST BE SURE TO REMOVE ALL NAILS BEFORE SAWING.

Tools you'll need

• Power Drill/Screwdriver and a selection of bits
• Sabersaw
• Circular Saw
• Hand Saw
• Hammer Drill and 5/8-inch bits
• Tape Measure
• Metal Yardstick (straight-edge)
• Tall ladder
• Carpenter's Square
• Carpenter's Level

The view from the top