MadSci Network: Engineering |
Dear Micky, This is a good question, I'll do my best, however I'm not a tree expert. Luckily, I can answer your question from experience, I helped my son (and his neighborhood friends) build a tree house several years ago. In terms of the best "species", I'm not sure you need to be that specific. Major tree characteristics that you may want to consider are: 1. Deciduous trees vs. "evergreen" trees: The former will loose it's leaves in the winter season and your tree house will be exposed. Many of your large robust trees may fall into this catagory. 2. Location: You may want to make sure that your not located over any hard objects (sidewalks, asphalt, fences, stumps, sharp protruding objects, etc...) you get the idea. Obviously, the softer the ground below the better. 3. Tree shape: I would suggest a mature tree with large well established limbs that form a well formed "crotch" to cradle the floor system. Your main support for construction should be towards these large low "core" area branches. Again, not to high in the tree for safety reasons, limbs tend to get weaker, and tree movement from the wind is greater. Make sure the tree is in good health and watch out for insect and bird nests. 4. Construction: remember, the tree you choose is a living, breathing growing thing. When I helped my son with ours, we did not use any nails or screws on the tree itself. The floor system was fastened to the main limbs with strong cord, wrapped several times around the limb. We would check these connections frequently and provide LOTS OF REDUNDANCY. I looked at each critical connection and thought "what would happen if the connection failed". I would suggest you have at least one back up connection at each critical point if possible. As the tree grew, we would re-adjust the cords, otherwise the branch will be strangled. Also, when you finally decide to abandon the tree house, make sure that all of the cords are removed (or fasteners). I suppose you could use lag bolts for connections if the tree is large enough, but remember, you are forming a "symbiotic" relationship - try to do no harm to your "host". Also make sure that your parents are involved with your project and help when using dangerous equipment. Also, keep people away from below during construction, falling equipment can prove very dangerous. I would use lightweight building materials wherever possible, such as your roof (plastic sheeting, tarp,...). Don't skimp on your floor system, this will be carrying the weight. Have your parents check all of your construction materials - weather resistant fasteners/materials are best. Remember, your tree will be growing, adjust accordingly. 5. BE CAREFUL - I'm sure there are some very large and beautiful tree's in your area (Colorado). Always remember: a. Use LOTS of redundancy for your supports. If using cord, make sure it's weather/UV resistant. Also, it will tend to loosen, especially initially. CHECK ALL CONNECTIONS EVERYDAY! b. Never take anything for granted. When your playing in the treehouse, have guard rails/walls to keep from falling out... Check their stability daily. Don't overload the floors/wall with too many people or let your parents have "wild partys" up there that may overwhelm the structure. c. Be very careful not to drop things on to people below. A hammer can do a lot of damage even when dropped a short distance. d. Stay out of trees during lightning storms and bad weather (pretty obvious huh!) The main thing is to have alot of fun, and remember no girls allowed! (just kidding). Other sites that may interest you before you start: www.cruzio.com and family.go.com. Thanks for the good question - keep them coming!
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