A Tree Fort Begins

Growing up I had the luxury of living very close to large tracts of woods. This was great as a kid as you didn't have to go all that far to explore. Of course one of the things we did is we attempted to build a tree fort out of scraps of wood. Really it ended up being a precariously built platform with little support. But we did have fun.

Were I live today, my children do not have this luxury. We do however have a large backyard capable of supporting a tree fort. So this weekend I embarked on building one for my two young sons.



I've read a lot about properly supporting the platform and ensuring not to damage the tree. Using two trees the platform rests on two braces that are lag bolted to each tree. I've secured one side of the platform directly to the brace and on the other side the floor rests on the brace. The intent here is to allow for movement in strong winds so as to reduce potential shearing forces.



The platform is 7' X 8'. and about 7' off the ground. Plenty of room to form the foundation of a great tree fort and high enough to keep the girls out :-) I'll post more pictures when it's completed and the leaves are out.

Unfortunately it's going to rain the rest of the weekend so I will not be able to get back to this until next weekend. Hmmmm, I think I better work on the back yard grass as well.