How to Build a Sturdy Children’s Playhouse

If there is one thing you know your kids will love, it is a playhouse. However, since you know the playhouse will get plenty of use, it will need to be as sturdy as possible. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to make this a reality. To build a playhouse your kids will be able to use for years to come, here are some steps you should take along the way.

Use Pressure-Treated Lumber

If you want a children’s playhouse that will stand up well to Mother Nature, buy pressure-treated lumber from a lumber supplier who will give you quality wood at fair prices. The material most often used for constructing playhouses, pressure-treated lumber is usually very affordable, requires little maintenance, and will last for years. If you like, you may want to apply a coat of sealant to it before you finish the playhouse, since this will give it even more protection against moisture.

Quality Roofing Materials

While you may be caught up in trying to make your children’s playhouse as cute as possible, don’t forget that without a quality roof, it won’t be long until the playhouse is leaking. Just like the roof on your home, you’ll want to decide between asphalt shingles or metal roofing. Metal will last a lifetime, but asphalt shingles tend to come in more colors and styles, and are usually cheaper than metal roofing.

Single-Pane Windows

Finally, you should consider adding one or two single-pane windows to your kid’s playhouse. Very affordable, these types of windows are very easy to install and surprisingly energy-efficient. Once they’re in place, apply some silicone around their edges to seal them so that water can’t penetrate the playhouse’s interior

Screws Instead of Nails

One of the best things you can do to guarantee your kid’s playhouse will be able to take everything that comes its way is to use screws rather than nails during the construction process. Screws provide a much stronger hold than nails, won’t split the wood, and can actually help speed up just how quickly you get the playhouse finished. Three-inch screws should be used for framing, while two-inch screws are fine for decking.

Once you keep these tips in mind and don’t forget to add a few fun accessories such as a swing or something else your kids will love, it won’t be long until your children will be spending most of their time in their new playhouse, which will put a smile on your face and theirs. 

By Lizzie Weakly

Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.