Key Signs A Tree Is Good For A Treehouse
A tree house can elicit great memories from childhood. It was a magical hideout for when you were a kid or even a teen. If you want to recreate those times for your children or want a place where you can relax, the most basic step is choosing a good tree.
Trees Best For Treehouses
When planning to build a treehouse, the first thing to consider is the tree to use. Take a look at the trees around you. You’ll realize not all trees are the same, so choosing the right one is crucial. Below is a list of tree types that are proven to be best to use for treehouses:
- Ash
- Beech
- Cedar
- Hemlock
- Maple
- Oak
Key Signs Of A Good Tree
- Health And Strength
Safety should be the priority when building a treehouse, so look for a tree that’s healthy. Tree health and strength are the most significant characteristics you should consider. A diseased or damaged tree won’t last long and will pose a safety risk to the users of the treehouse. Remember, you’re adding weight to the tree, so a sturdy and healthy tree is expected.
An unhealthy tree displays any of the following:
- Discoloration of the leaves that isn’t seasonally related.
- Dead branches that are close to one another.
- Patchy leaves.
- Liquid seeping from the bark.
- Presence of insects.
- Age
The perfect tree for a treehouse shouldn’t be too old or too young. Consider the lifespan of a tree, and as much as possible, stay away from trees with a short lifespan. It would be illogical to build a treehouse on a tree near to its natural death, except if you intend to use it for only a short period.
- Angle And Thickness Of Branches
Aside from the tree trunk, the branches, depending on their thickness and angle, can also give support to your treehouse. The limbs of trees grow in varying sizes and angles. Those growing at 90-degree angle are considered to be the strongest, offering maximum support.
- Location
Naturally, you’d want a tree that’s rooted on a level ground. Choosing one that’s positioned on a slope can pose a safety threat for when you get down the treehouse. Avoid any tree that’s close to the driveway or heavy structure. Also, consider the location if you want a hidden treehouse.
Before you make a treehouse, consider asking for help from professionals such as the ones from Bellarine Trees to the health of a tree. Building a treehouse is not as easy as it sounds and should not be mediocre as user safety can be at risk.
Daniel Stone
Daniel has worked in the management, cutting, and caring of trees for the last 20 years. He works and helps run Bellarine Trees and is passionate about the environment and tree worker safety. He has a wife and two daughters and he enjoys playing tennis in his spare time.
