How to Build a Tree House

When the kids are out of school you may be tempted to build a treehouse for them to play in during the summer. Before you head off with hammer, nails and planks in hand, plan your design to minimize damage to the tree. A few summer’s of enjoyment could lead to the death of a prized landscape specimen. Dr. Kim Coder, Extension tree guru, has these tips for treehouse construction:

•No nails or screws should be put into the tree trunk.

•Use a self-supporting ladder or knotted rope to provide access.

•The supporting framework should be lashed to limbs using thick rope.

•Construct the house in the lower third of the tree.

•Test walls and railings vigorously to make sure they’re safe.


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