Log Siding Play Houses And Tree Houses Are Fun

If you will remember, you probably liked playing in big cardboard boxes as a child. As you grew older, your parents may have purchased or made a wood playhouse or a real tree house. Those were fun days filled with excitement when you spent time in them while your imagination could take you anywhere.

If you have children or grandchildren, you can recreate those wonderful days for them by building a playhouse or tree house for your loved ones. A popular choice of building materials is pine log siding. The real wood construction projects a true American icon image – a log house. Building a playhouse or tree house with your children or grandchildren is an incredible bonding experience that will last a lifetime.

Why Children Like Play Houses And Tree Houses

Children love playhouses and treehouses because they provide a sense of independence and spaces for imaginative play. They also create a connection to nature and provide a place to be in charge of their own world. They essentially create a personal world where kids can be in charge and explore their own ideas without limitations.

Treehouses serve as castles, spaceships, secret hideouts, or pirate ships, depending on the day’s adventure. Imaginative play in playhouses and treehouses enables children to explore different roles, scenarios, and narratives. These activities can enhance their storytelling skills, problem-solving abilities, and creative thinking.

Playhouses and treehouses encourage children to go outdoors and enjoy its benefits. They can enjoy the fresh air and engage in playful physical activities. They can run, climb, and jump which helps them be happier and healthier, which is lacking in video games and using indoor gadgets.

Play Houses On The Ground

Playhouses are typically built on the ground or on posts with a ladder leading up to the floor above the ground. They may have a sliding board to go down as well as a ladder. Some have a rope swing or even a zip line to play on. Others may have a swing set attached to the playhouse or next to it. They are typically 5’x5’ or 6’x6’ and 6’ to 9’ tall, depending if they sit on the ground or on posts.

Building a playhouse with log siding is a real adventure in itself. The most economical way to build the house part is with quarter log pine siding secured to 2”x3” wall framing. Install the log corners and log trims before putting the siding into place. The four posts supporting the house can be made with 4”x4” or 6”x6” treated posts. Put a pine floor in it and a waterproof roof on it and you have a great place to play. Cut out spaces for a door and a couple of windows for easy access and seeing outside. Stain and seal the wood to complete the project. Where possible, let the kids help build the playhouse and they will really enjoy this treat.

“If you have children or grandchildren, you can recreate those wonderful days for them by building a playhouse or tree house for your loved ones.”


Tree Houses Up In The Air

Building a tree house is a special creation because it is perched among the branches of a large tree. The tree’s health and the placement of the tree house must be carefully considered. They are built with a floor platform, braces, log siding walls, roof, doors, windows, protective railing, fun and safety features. Here are some tips for constructing your log siding tree house:

  • Select a hardwood tree or trees with large branches that can handle the load safely
  • Keep the total weight of materials and children in mind and its stability
  • Leave room in the floor or porch with a hole for the tree to grow and expand
  • Make sure the floor is level to make it easier to build
  • Build as much on the ground as possible before hoisting it up in the tree
  • Use the right fasteners, brackets, and braces for safety and strength
  • Add a few fun accessories to play with
  • Consider tree and child safety, preventing tree damage, and the neighbors’ concerns

Building a tree house brings with it several responsibilities, such as following city regulations, preventing injuries, and maintenance. Build yours with care after making sure there are no restrictive city ordinances and have fun.

Putting The Finishing Touches On Play Houses And Tree Houses

Think of constructing a play house or tree house as building a real tiny house. Add log corners and log trims around doors and windows, and stain the wood adequately for protection. You aren’t installing plumbing, electrical wiring, or a heating and cooling system, so keep it simple. You can find many different plans online or create your original working plans. Log playhouses and tree houses are special places for special fun.

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