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Building a treehouse does cause some strain on the tree because it has to adapt to the heavy structure. However, if the treehouse is designed well, the tree should be able to recover from any installation damage. Choose a strong and healthy tree and use tree attachment bolts to connect the treehouse. This reduces the risk of strain or infection on the tree.

Treehouse building times depend on the size and complexity of your treehouse and whether you’ve chosen a prefab or custom design. A simple child’s prefab treehouse can take as little as two days to a week, while larger designs typically take two to six weeks. Custom designs add time for drafting, while features like plumbing and electricity typically add several days. Designing and installing a fully liveable treehouse can take several months to a year.

Look for strong, healthy trees with a diameter of 12 inches or more. Thanks to their sturdy trunks and limbs, some of the best types of trees include maple, oak, hemlock, and fir. Avoid softer trees like poplar and willow because they’re not as well suited to carrying weight. An arborist can help you select the best trees on your property for building a treehouse.

A well-constructed treehouse can last 10 to 25 years or more. The lifespan of your treehouse depends on the quality of materials used and maintenance habits. For example, adding a weather-proof treatment may help extend the life of the lumber. Treehouses in areas with harsh weather conditions, like frequent storms, may wear faster than those in mild climates.