DIY kids playhouse

okedoke

I want to build a DIY playhouse for my toddler this spring. I'm planning a simplified version of this https://www.google.ie/search?q=diy+playhouse&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=770&site=webhp&tbm=isch&imgil=axHbKUrwrt9VFM%253A%253BydcRbtygXOxZ9M%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fjenwoodhouse.com%25252Fkids-indoor-playhouse%25252F&source=iu&pf=m&fir=axHbKUrwrt9VFM%253A%252CydcRbtygXOxZ9M%252C_&usg=__bK7olqyqviW1mnNhbk9PEcnJL9k%3D&ved=0ahUKEwjF89jM1tjRAhWsJMAKHdDzCr0QyjcIMQ&ei=4S2GWIX_HqzJgAbQ56voCw#imgrc=vDm1qvu6-voJ0M%3A

Basically a platform, raised 2' off the ground on posts with a simple house and balcony on top of it. I have very little experience of this type of project (other than building a few rough tables, shed shelving etc.) I have two questions to get started
- what type of wood would be appropriate for the posts. There will be 6 of these supporting the house. Would pressure treated posts last 6-7 years in contact with the ground?

- Should I anchor the posts in concrete.

thanks

Sleepy

One thing to check out: cost it well. My BIL was planning to do the same but it turned out cheaper to simply buy a ready-to-assemble kit rather than all the wood/materials required...

okedoke

good point, thanks.

El Kabong!

Just remember that regular wood will rot in places, but some think the chemicals used in treated wood are not suitable for play area use. They will say they are safe but.......
Personally I would just use regular wood and perhaps keep it painted every few years to keep most of the water out. Should be fine for the years you need it.
Want some inspiration? Here's what I made:

okedoke

that is great EL, I'll be aiming for a more basic design to that but along the same lines. I notice you haven't got the supports touching the ground - is that to avoid rot or just the design.

I was going to use normal wood for everything but the support posts, which would be on/in the ground. i would be concerned about the chemicals used in it though

El Kabong!

It's just the design... want it to be a treeless treehouse so to speak.
You could dig little holes in the ground where it is going and compact in gravel etc and sit it on that. The water would drain away quickly.
Else where in the garden I have a swing set... I dug holes and poured in concrete, but the concrete is slightly above the ground level and is slightly domed to allow water to flow away from the wooden legs.

okedoke

El Kabong! wrote: »

It's just the design... want it to be a treeless treehouse so to speak.
You could dig little holes in the ground where it is going and compact in gravel etc and sit it on that. The water would drain away quickly.
Else where in the garden I have a swing set... I dug holes and poured in concrete, but the concrete is slightly above the ground level and is slightly domed to allow water to flow away from the wooden legs.

that gravel idea is a good one - was thinking about something like that. Any other tips on what kind of wood re. suitability vs. cost?