Author: Lisa Smith
A Step-by-Step Guide
Building a wooden playhouse can be a rewarding project that not only provides a creative outlet but also delivers a special place for children to play and dream. Whether you’re a seasoned carpenter or a weekend DIY enthusiast, this guide will help you construct a safe, durable playhouse that can withstand the elements and spark imagination. Below, you’ll find a detailed step-by-step process to help you find the right materials and tools.
Step 1: Design and Planning
Choose a Design: Before you start building, decide on the playhouse design. Do you want a simple single-room playhouse or something more elaborate with multiple levels? Consider the size and the features, such as windows, doors, and perhaps even a porch.
Create a Blueprint: Sketch your design or use free online tools to create a blueprint. This step is crucial for visualising your project and determining the materials needed.
Select Your Materials: Opt for treated wood that's suitable for outdoor use to ensure longevity. In NZ, there are many hardware outlets offering a range of suitable timber and building materials.
Step 2: Foundation and Frame
Prepare the Site: Choose a flat, dry spot in your property. Clear the area of any debris or vegetation and level the ground.
Build the Foundation: You can use concrete pavers or a wooden frame filled with gravel. Ensure it’s level and stable to support the playhouse structure. For foundation materials, check out your local suppliers.
Construct the Frame: Assemble the floor, walls, and roof frame. Use galvanised screws for extra durability. Remember, accuracy in your measurements and cuts will save you a lot of trouble later.
Step 3: Roofing and Walls
Install the Roof: Choose a waterproof roofing material. Corrugated roofing panels are a good option; they’re durable and easy to install. You can find them at your local hardware store.
Add the Walls: Attach your chosen wall material to the frame. Plywood or weatherboard are popular choices in New Zealand due to their durability and ease of installation.
Seal and Paint: Seal the wood with a wood preservative and paint it to protect against weather conditions. Select a child-friendly, non-toxic paint.
Step 4: Doors, Windows, and Finishing Touches
Install Doors and Windows: Fit the doors and windows. You can either build them from scratch or purchase pre-made ones from hardware stores like Bunnings or Mitre 10.
Add Interior and Exterior Details: Install any shelving, benches, or other interior elements. For the exterior, consider adding trim, flower boxes, and even a small deck or porch to enhance the playhouse’s charm.
Safety Check: Ensure there are no sharp edges or small parts that could become hazards. Sand down any rough patches to make sure the playhouse is safe for its little users.
Additional Resources
For more detailed instructions and visual guidance, you might consider checking out the Mitre 10 video guide on building a playhouse.
A kitset playhouse is also a great option and quick to construct. Outpost Buildings has a selection of great quality wooden kitset playhouses that are quick and easy to assemble with step by step instructions and some parts are even pre-assembled.
With an Outpost kitset, you can minimise your material wastage, and benefit from Outpost’s knowledge & experience in the choosing of your materials - an example being perspex windows instead of glass, since perspex is safer for a children’s playhouse.
Conclusion
Building a wooden playhouse requires careful planning, a bit of hard work, and a lot of love. By following these steps and utilising local resources, you’ll create not just a play space for your children that’s safe and sturdy, but a family heirloom that will last for generations.
Outpost Buildings provides a quality range of durable kitset sheds including playhouses. These are available in different sizes to suit your requirements and property sizes from urban backyards to large lifestyle properties. They include assembly plans and all the required fixings and can all be delivered NZ-wide to your property. To learn more about kitset shed options, reach out and talk to us about which one will suit your requirements best.
