A playhouse can be a great gift for your child. You can provide your child countless hours of enjoyment and invaluable memories. However, playhouse construction can be a tough ask. You need to make sure that the playhouse is structurally sound and safe for your child to play in. To help you out, here are 12 steps to simplify playhouse construction:
1. Start with the Floor Frame
You should start with the floor frame for the playhouse. For this, you have to join pressure treated joists together using nails. It is also a good idea to set stakes in the ground so you can keep the frame aside while you complete the next steps.
2. Create a Level Foundation
You need to make sure the joists sit on a stable and level foundation, using flat paving stones and sand. Make sure all the pavers are equally tall. Level out any low spots to ensure the playhouse settles perfectly.
3. Set Up the Porch Posts
Set up the porch posts by clamping a post into the outside joist. Use a level to keep it straight. Once you are certain of the position, using a bolt and nut to secure the joist and post in place. Follow this for all 4 posts.
4. Get Rid of Squeaks
To prevent squeaking in the floor, you can simply put some roofing felt between the joists and the floor boards. This will also help you weatherproof the floor.
5. Floor Board Installation
Start by checking that all floor boards are uniform in size. Next, cut notches using a jigsaw and then install the boards. Use galvanized screws to secure them in place.
6. Setting Up the Walls
To frame the walls, you need to place them on a flat surface. Create the structure of the walls using nails. Once the frame is ready, screw the walls into the floor.
7. Sheeting
Cut each sheet to the right size. Next, use nails to attach the sheets to the walls. Keep a gap of at least 16 inches between the nails. The sheeting process will make the playhouse more stable.
8. Prepping the Roof
You have to create the roof trusses at this stage. Place them according to the layout and screw them in. When you place the sheets, the roof joists become more stable.
9. Roof Installation
Now that the roof trusses are in place, you can place the roof sheeting. You will also have to lay out the roofing felt, going from bottom to top. Staple it down before placing shingles over it. This will keep the playhouse safe from the elements of nature, making this one of the most important playhouse construction tips.
10. Window Installation
Installing windows is easy, particularly if you place them from the outside and attach them to the exterior wall.
11. Railing Installing
Buy a prefabricated railing system and attach it to the porch posts using nails.
12. The Finishing Touches
Following the steps laid out here will ensure your playhouse construction project goes to plan. The playhouse is sturdy and safe for your children, so you can get creative at the last stage. Add some finishing touches, like painting the wood, or any other ideas that come to mind.
Think all this is too much work? Don’t worry, you can always call in the professionals to do the job for you. Your kids will still love you!