[marinmama]

Hi,
I'd love to build a simple treehouse or even a playhouse, but really only have one tree that's about 8 inches in diameter. I'm assuming that's not enough for much of anything, but was wondering if I could at least use it to prop up one side of a treehouse, even 4 feet off the ground? Also, all the treehouse's I've seen online are pretty fancy and I'm just thinking of getting some scrap wood and getting creative (although wondering if that will be a disaster waiting to happen)?
thanks

 

[wombosi]

Hi,
I'd love to build a simple treehouse or even a playhouse, but really only have one tree that's about 8 inches in diameter. I'm assuming that's not enough for much of anything, but was wondering if I could at least use it to prop up one side of a treehouse, even 4 feet off the ground? Also, all the treehouse's I've seen online are pretty fancy and I'm just thinking of getting some scrap wood and getting creative (although wondering if that will be a disaster waiting to happen)?
thanks

hm. at 8" diameter your tree house would be little more than a glorified "seat," i would think. any big branches at least? a picture would be great.

 

[Willie T]

How about a platform on four stilts? Build it around the tree, leaving a hole in the middle of the floor for the tree to grow through.

 

[marinmama]

Thanks! - Yeah, I think that's what I'll need to do. It's the only tree that is remotely viable Now, need to figure out how to build a simple platform

 

[Windows]

Thanks! - Yeah, I think that's what I'll need to do. It's the only tree that is remotely viable Now, need to figure out how to build a simple platform

I had a 'fort' built on 4x4 stilts when I was a kid and it was as good if not better than any treehouse.

 

[Treehouse Guy]

How about a platform on four stilts? Build it around the tree, leaving a hole in the middle of the floor for the tree to grow through.

This is the best idea for the tree - leave several inches for the tree to sway & grow at the floor and roof levels. I have seen trees killed from girdling when the framing is too tight... Here is an article on how to support a treehouse.

The 8" tree could probably bear the weight of 1/4 or 1/2 the treehouse, but Willie T's suggestion is best. :thumbsup: