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How much does a tree house cost?
The price depends on several factors: the surface area, the location (one or more trees, sloping ground, accessibility, etc.), the tree or trees (species, diameter, etc.), the choice of options and materials, the choice of a platform with or without a hut, etc. Whatever the format, all our constructions offer the same level of solidity and safety. A small basic observation post (+-5 m²) can be installed for a budget of around €5,000. A medium-sized platform (12 to 16 m²) is in the region of €10,000 to €15,000. Certain options, such as a specific staircase or railing manufactured by an external partner, can greatly increase the above prices. The addition of a hut is also an extra cost. But the possibilities are virtually endless, so the price range is very wide. We can, of course, also make you a proposal based on a pre-determined budget. How long does a platform or tree house last?
Wood is a natural resource. How long it lasts will depend largely on the choice of timber. We generally work with Douglas fir, which has an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years when buried. Since our structure is not buried, but built high up and therefore optimally ventilated, it will last much longer. Frequent maintenance will also have a major impact on the lifespan of your platform. You can take care of it yourself by removing dead leaves (especially from the cracks) and treating the wood with a maintenance oil, or you can call on us! We offer a range of maintenance packages for our structures. Why build a platform in my tree?
It's almost instinctive for every child on Earth to want to climb a tree. Trees are an unknown and adventurous world within everyone's reach. A few metres is all it takes to enter another universe: between dry land and the birds, safely camouflaged between the branches. You can dream of building yourself a cosy nest, a pirate hut, a fairytale castle... Dreams that change with age, but a feeling that never really leaves us. A tree is an escape into your own back garden. To finish convincing you, here are a few concrete ideas of what you could do with it :
Is the tree suffering?
A minimum! The technique we use (Garnier Limb® attachment) has been extensively tested and monitored for decades and has proved to be the most appropriate. It guarantees minimal intrusion, preserving as much as possible of the tree's feeding channels so that it can heal and resume normal growth. Over time, the tree will regard the screw as a new branch and ‘absorb’ it. Is it possible to order a platform and then build your own cabin on it?
Certainly! Building the platform is undoubtedly the most technical part of our job. Fitting it out is more within the reach of any good handyman. In all cases, we'll discuss your wishes with you and the best way to achieve them! What are the steps involved in building a platform?
It all starts, of course, with an initial contact by e-mail or telephone. On the basis of this, we ask you for any additional information (photos of the proposed location, information about the tree, any sketches you may have, etc.) and if the essential conditions are met, we agree to an initial visit to your home to discuss your project in more detail and take some measurements. We'll then draw up a quotation, and if it meets your expectations (and after answering any remaining questions you may have), we'll schedule the work (not without congratulating you warmly!)! Do you also build habitable tree houses?
No. The cabins we offer are intended more as shelters or playhouses, but are not intended to be lived in. That said, there's nothing to stop you building (or having built) your own unusual accommodation on one of our platforms. However, if you want to do this, it's important that you let us know in advance, as the intended use of the platform will influence certain aspects of its construction. Is my tree big enough?
The size of the tree and the size of the platform are closely linked. As a general rule, a thicker tree (with a larger diameter) will logically be able to support a larger structure. However, other parameters also come into play: the species of tree, its state of health, its inclination, its exposure to the elements, etc. It is therefore difficult to give a precise answer, but overall, below a diameter of 35 cm, it becomes difficult to build a platform that is fixed exclusively in the tree. Fortunately, there are other solutions! If you're dreaming of your own spot among the branches, but don't have a tree that meets the requirements, we can also install your platform on stilts using the tree or trees in your garden! What about safety?
It goes without saying that when it comes to construction at height, the question of solidity and safety is absolutely essential! That's why we pay extreme attention to the choice and quality of materials (from the beams to the smallest bolt). When it comes to the hardware used to secure the tree, we work with The Treehouse Shop, a German manufacturer that produces its own parts based on the tried and tested Garnier Limb® method in the USA. The hardware supplied by The Treehouse Shop is the result of years of study, research, testing and experience in tree construction. In simple terms, these very large screws have been designed to withstand extreme loads. Over time, the tree will also integrate the screw into its trunk by producing reaction wood (which is denser), strengthening the connection between the screw and the tree year after year. Finally, in the case of complex plans, we regularly consult the experts at The Treehouse Shop for their opinion and approach to the project. As far as the platform itself is concerned, we comply with European safety standards for high-rise buildings and children's play equipment. Does tree constructions have to be examined by an independent inspection body?
The visit of an inspection body is compulsory only in case of construction in a public area. However, an inspection in private homes is possible, but at an additional cost. Don't hesitate to talk to us about it! Do I need a permit to install a tree structure?
Permission is almost never needed for a garden shed that is not intended for living in. However, given the complexity of our country's institutions, we advise you to check with your local government. We also advise you to discuss the project with your neighbours beforehand if the platform is close to the plot boundary. Is the platform covered by a guarantee?
Our structures are designed to last for many years (minimum 15 years). Careful use (removing leaves, brushing occasionally, applying a coat of protective oil if necessary) can extend the optimal life of the structure, in particular by limiting the appearance of moss or discolouration of the wood. Nevertheless, wood is a natural material, exposed to variations in humidity and heat that can cause structural movement. These movements do not affect the quality of the work. Over time, exposure to rain and sun can also lead to greying of the structure or the appearance of cracks. These are normal phenomena that do not affect the structural soundness of the structure. In addition, we provide a guarantee of conformity and hidden defects for a period of one year from acceptance of the building. For more details, please read our general terms and conditions. Can the tree continue to grow normally?
Absolutely! The advantage of the fixing method we use is that it allows the beams to be positioned at a good distance from the trunk, giving it the opportunity to grow without encountering resistance. The screw, meanwhile, will be gradually integrated into the tree, like an artificial branch. As for height, trees grow from the tips of their branches, so your platform won't gain an inch every year ;-) |
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