Treehouse Update

[John A]

Well, after a long road, I have finally got the platform of the tree house almost completed, I have a few more braces to put up, and have been looking at some options for siding.  

The tree house is an A frame, and I wanted to put these cedar shingles on the side, they are considered construction, undercourse shingles, but look like they will be okay for a treehouse...any thoughts??

http://www.menards.com/main/building-materials/roofing-soffits-gutt...

Thanks.

[Ken Darga]

John,

Shingles on a tree-house will give the structure a nice appeal.

Make sure the shingles are installed, so water drippage is deflected away from and downward from the structure.

[John A]

Thanks Ken, yes I agree they will look nice, I guess I shouldn't post so early in the morning, I should have asked, are undercourse shingles "ok" to post as exterior shingles?  They are a grade D, look at, but will they hold up to the elements?

Ken Darga said:

John,

Shingles on a tree-house will give the structure a nice appeal.

Make sure the shingles are installed, so water drippage is deflected away from and downward from the structure.

[Ken Darga]

John,

Yes, the cedar shingles will hold up to the elements.

Cedar material is an excellent choice for exterior projects, exposed to the weather.

I'd recomment using an oil based stain-sealer, to maintain the cedars natural beauty.

If left untreated, the cedar will darken with age, and it will turn a dark grayish color over the years.

My #1 choice is Cabot's Australian Timer Oil.  

PS---use aluminum cedar shingle nails.

John A said:

Thanks Ken, yes I agree they will look nice, I guess I shouldn't post so early in the morning, I should have asked, are undercourse shingles "ok" to post as exterior shingles?  They are a grade D, look at, but will they hold up to the elements?

[John A]

Thanks again Ken, just another question, the plans call for treated plywood for the walls, if I plan on using the cedar shingles, can I use untreated plywood instead, if it is properly covered by the shingles?

[Gary roofner]

I would use regular plywood but  put the staple black roofing paper on before you put the Ceder shingles.

[John A]

Thanks Gary, that's what I think I will do.

[John A]

Update on the tree house - 

So far I have used the Kreg HD and the Kreg Rip cut jig to help with it.  The HD worked well on the rails, and the back panel wall.

[Gary roofner]

Very nice job.  I can see that in your sons eyes.

[Rita B.]

It is coming along great!   Your adorable son will have very many great memories of his childhood years and you will always be a hero in his eyes!  I will continue to watch for further updates.