Perhaps the most important tip for building a playhouse is determining how large the structure should be. In order to make this determination, you will first need to measure the space in which you intend to build the structure, and then to determine how the playhouse is likely to be used. This will affect the design used when building a playhouse, and it will give the builder a sense of how much the project will end up costing. A playhouse kit may be the best option for some builders, as this will make the construction process far easier and quicker.
A kit is useful for anyone building a playhouse who has little or no carpentry experience. The kit will usually come with all the materials necessary to complete the structure, as well as detailed plans to walk the builder through the construction process. The builder will need to buy his or her own tools, however, and the building plans will generally outline which tools are necessary for the job. If this will be the only building project the builder will take on, he or she may be better off renting tools instead of purchasing them.
Alternatively, the experienced carpenter or hobbyist will need to have the proper tools on hand when building a playhouse. A circular saw, miter saw, drill, appropriate drill bits, and a router are all common tools used during the construction process. A plumb bob and tape measure will also help the process of building a playhouse. The structure is likely to be fairly small, so the builder may be able to construct the playhouse on his or her own, but the presence of an assistant will speed the process along and ensure safety, especially when raising walls and the roof of the structure.
Choose materials carefully. The wood used for building a playhouse should be resistant in some way to water damage and bug infestations. Pressure-treated wood will accomplish this, though it can be expensive. Woods that are naturally resistant to water damage, such as cedar, are quite beautiful and long-lasting, though again, the cost of such wood can be higher than other options. Pine can be used to build most of the structure, and this wood is inexpensive and easy to work with. If it is used, however, it should be treated in some way to resist water damage, and it should be covered with other materials if possible to protect it from the elements.
