Is it Cheaper to Build Your Own Playhouse?
If you’re in the market for a new playhouse, you’ll generally find that pre-built playhouses are cheaper than putting in a DIY playhouse.
Plastic playhouses generally cost less than wooden playhouses.
Whether you’re considering a cozy little hideaway for your children or an expansive two-story playhouse complete with its own mini kitchen inside, one key question often comes up – is it cheaper to build your own playhouse?
- A children’s playhouse with an oval split door / window with working door knob & latch
- Side serving station with bench and toy lanterns
- This cedar playhouse comes with play burner, a toy sink, a fruit & vegetables basket and other toy kitchen accessories
- A mailbox on a picket fence
- An outdoor playhouse for your kids to “play house”
Last update on 2025-02-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The cost of building a playhouse largely depends on several factors, including the size, materials used, and whether you are starting from scratch or using a kit.
Although prices for pre-made playhouses can range widely, they typically tend to be more expensive, especially for larger, more elaborate models.
On the other hand, building your own playhouse allows you the flexibility to control costs more directly.
You can choose less expensive materials and do all the labor yourself, eliminating the need for professional installation.
Plus, there’s always room to scale back on some of those “nice-to-have” features if budget becomes a concern.
However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that DIY is always cheaper.
The actual cost can add up when you consider factors like tools needed (if you don’t already own them), potential waste from mistakes made during construction, and, most importantly, the value of time spent on building.
Each approach has pros and cons when measured against cost-effectiveness and time commitment.
It’s always best to evaluate these aspects carefully before deciding which route will be most beneficial for your situation.
Building Your Own Wood Playhouse
Building your own wood playhouse can be a rewarding project that provides hours of fun for your children or grandchildren.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Materials Needed:
- Playhouse blueprint or plan
- Wood (2x4s, plywood, etc.)
- Nails and screws
- Handsaw or electric saw
- Hammer and screwdriver
- Measuring tape and square
- Paint (optional)
- Roofing material
Step 1: Design the Playhouse
Before building, decide what you want the playhouse to look like. Plenty of playhouse blueprints are available online, or you can design your own.
Step 2: Gather Materials
Once you have your design, gather all the required materials. The quantity will depend on the size of your playhouse.
Step 3: Build the Base
Using 2x4s, build the base of your playhouse. Ensure it’s level and strong enough to support the structure’s weight.
Step 4: Frame Walls
Next, combine the walls according to your design using more 2x4s. Remember to leave space for windows and doors.
Step 5: Add Walls
Cover the frame with plywood to create walls. Cut out areas where you’ve planned for windows and doors.
Step 6: Construct Roof
Build a simple pitched roof frame with 2x4s, then cover it with plywood. You can also use roofing material for weather protection.
Step 7: Install Windows and Doors
Fit windows into cut-out spaces and attach door(s) using hinges.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Sand any rough edges for safety, paint if wished (this could also help protect from rain), and add any extra features like window boxes or shutters if desired.
Remember safety is paramount when working on such projects, especially when power tools are involved. Also, ensure that the finished product is safe for kids to play in; no sharp edges or protruding nails/screws.
But how much will it cost to build a wooden playhouse?
Cost of Building a Playhouse
The cost of building a playhouse depends on many factors. The materials used can be expensive, and you should check the prices from various vendors to ensure you can get the best deal.
The most basic playhouses usually cost between $100 and $200, but larger ones can cost upwards of $400.
Plastic playhouses can be a less expensive option.
However, they don’t come with many customization options.
For example, they don’t come with floors, so you may need to build them yourself, which could drive up the cost.
In addition, metal playhouses are usually prefabricated, meaning the cost is higher if you want custom floors.
A good quality playhouse can be expensive, but your child will enjoy it for many years. Plus, it can also help improve your child’s social skills.
And if you’re selling your home soon, the cost of building a playhouse may increase the value of your property.
Building a simple outdoor playhouse for a child can cost as much as $1,000, but the investment will last at least five to ten years.
If you want your children to have a safe play area, a playhouse is an excellent choice. Not only will it protect them from the weather, but it will also provide a space for pretend play.
Moreover, a playhouse is an excellent addition to any backyard.
It’s a safe and colorful play area for children. You can also find many playhouse designs within your budget.
While a treehouse is a natural structure, it can also be built on a platform or in your backyard. This will give your child the feeling of being up in the air.
- SPACIOUS AND COMFORTABLE. The Glamping House features a 25 sq. ft. canvas covered playhouse, clubhouse, cottage with a 35 sq. ft. raised wooden deck. Perfect for any kids backyard.
- REST AND RELAX. Up to two kids can take naps in the cozy two cargo net bunk hammocks with wooden ladder access. Add to any existing backyard playset.
- LET THE BREEZE IN. The canvas walls roll up or down easily to let the breeze into your kids activity castle.
- ENJOY THE VIEW. The walls also come with built-in mesh windows for easy visibility in and out of the Glamping House.
- LIGHT UP THE NIGHT. Glamping House comes with battery-powered LED lights for campouts or stargazing.
Last update on 2025-02-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros and Cons of Building a Playhouse
Building a playhouse can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are also some considerations to remember.
Here are some pros and cons of building a playhouse:
Pros:
- Customization: Building your own playhouse allows you to customize the design, size, and colors to suit your children’s preferences.
- Quality Control: You can ensure the use of high-quality materials for durability and safety.
- Bonding Time: This can be a great project to work on with your children, teaching them basic construction skills and fostering creativity.
- Cost-effective: Depending on the materials used, it may be cheaper than buying a pre-built playhouse.
Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Depending on the complexity of the project and your skill level, it might take several weekends or more to complete.
- Requires Skills: Building a playhouse from scratch could be challenging if you’re not handy. You need basic knowledge about woodworking and using power tools safely.
- Upkeep: Wood structures often require maintenance (like sealing or repainting) every few years to keep them in good condition.
- Safety Concerns: If not built properly, homemade structures could have safety risks like splinters from untreated wood or instability if not properly constructed.
Another excellent option for a playhouse is a treehouse.
Building A Treehouse
Building a treehouse can be a fun and adventurous project.
Here’s a basic step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Materials Needed:
- Treehouse blueprint or plan
- Suitable tree or trees
- Lumber (2x4s, 2x8s, plywood, etc.)
- Nails and screws
- Handsaw or electric saw
- Hammer and screwdriver
- Measuring tape and square
- Rope or pulley system for lifting materials
- Safety harness for working at height
Step 1: Pick the Right Tree
Start by choosing the right tree. It should be sturdy, healthy, and large enough to support the weight of the treehouse.
Step 2: Plan Your Treehouse
Plan your treehouse based on the size and shape of your tree. Be sure to consider safety features such as railings.
Step 3: Gather Materials
Once you have your plan, gather all the required materials.
Step 4: Build the Support Structure
Using 2×8 lumber, build a sturdy platform that will hold up the rest of your structure. The platform should be level and securely attached to the tree.
Step 5: Frame the Walls
Next, frame out your walls using more 2x4s. Remember to leave space for windows and doors.
Step 6: Add Walls & Floor
Cover wall frames with plywood to create walls. Install floorboards onto the platform.
Step 7: Construct the Roof
Build a simple pitched roof frame with more lumber, then cover it with plywood or roofing material for weather protection.
Step 8: Install Windows & Door
Fit windows into cut-out spaces in walls, and attach door(s) using hinges.
Step 9: Add Finishing Touches
Sand any rough edges for safety. Paint if desired to protect from rain damage & add a personal touch!
Safety is paramount when undertaking projects – always wear suitable protective equipment when operating power tools or working at height.
Happy building!