Treeforts can be elaborate structures with fully functioning glass windows that take a long time to build and a lot of money. Or they can be something a little more simple that will still provide a child with hours of fun. Whatever the type of tree structure you choose to build, these tips will help you by covering build a treefort. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Familiarize yourself with treefort designs. You will get an idea of what you'll need to design your treefort as well as the materials you'll need to build the treefort of your choice. When you find a few designs that you think might work, allow your child to make the final decision by choosing the one she likes most. Detailed treefort designs can be found on the Internet or from books at a local bookstore, home improvement store or library.
2. Choose a big and solid tree in your backyard. In fact, it's better if you have several trees to provide a strong base for your tree fort since all trees sway a bit.
3. Purchase the building supplies. Get any building permits and licences that may be required. Check your city, HOA or town's building codes before you build a treefort. Decide how high off the ground you'd like to build your fort, depending on the age of your children.
4. Build a solid base platform out of heavy planks and galvanized bolts and then add the floor. Involve your child in the building process. Whatever task they can do, no matter how small, will help them feel like they've taken a part in creating the fort, even if it's reading instructions or handing you screws.
5. Make solid rails. Most treefort designs will have one, but if they don't, be sure to incorporate them into the design for safety reasons.
6. Add two or three ways to get into the treefort with ropes and ladders. It is, after all, a treefort and not a treehouse. Set aside a corner as a lookout post and place a simulated telescope at the end, which you can buy these at any toy store and sometimes at hardware supply stores. Then paint the treefort in a camouflage color.
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