One of the most important considerations when you build an outdoor wooden playhouse is what to put underneath it. To keep your structure stable, safe, and long-lasting requires laying a proper foundation. You might use gravel, a concrete slab, paving stones, wooden decking, or rubber mulch as a base. The foundation can prevent issues like sinking, rotting, and water damage. In this blog post, we’ll look at several options for playhouse bases and help you decide which one is the best option for you.
In other words, the base is the foundation for the outdoor wooden playhouse. It prevents the playhouse from direct contact with the soil, which can cause moisture buildup and lead to rotting. It also keeps the structure level and sturdy, which is especially important for safety. Choosing the right material can also improve the playhouse’s longevity and make it more weather-resistant.
Here’s a table of some popular base materials people often recommend for an outdoor wooden playhouse, with a brief description of each option’s benefits and drawbacks:
| Base Material | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravel | Provides excellent drainage and keeps water from pooling around the playhouse. | Good drainage, cost-effective, easy to install. | May shift over time, requires leveling. |
| Concrete Slab | A permanent, stable option that offers a solid, level foundation for the playhouse. | Very stable, long-lasting, low maintenance. | Expensive to install, not easily removable. |
| Pavers | Durable and attractive, offering an easy-to-install base with good drainage. | Easy to install, visually appealing, durable. | May require occasional leveling, more costly. |
| Wooden Decking | Elevates the playhouse, protecting it from direct contact with the soil and improving air circulation. | Aesthetic, protects wood, good air circulation. | Requires maintenance, more expensive to build. |
| Rubber Mulch/Mats | Provides a soft landing area, especially useful for safety in play spaces. Often used in playgrounds. | Soft for kids, eco-friendly, prevents weeds. | Can be expensive, needs periodic replacement. |
| Dirt/Grass (No Base) | Simple and cost-free option for temporary setups, placing the playhouse directly on the ground. | No cost, easy to set up. | Poor drainage, risk of moisture and pests, rotting wood. |
The best option for your outdoor wooden playhouse mainly depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a cost-effective and relatively simple solution, then gravel may be the best choice for you.
For a more permanent option, a concrete slab will be a better solution as it offers superior stability and long-lasting support, though it comes with a higher installation cost. If appearance and elevation are a priority for you, then wooden decking is a great choice, but it does require regular upkeep.
On the other hand, rubber mulch or mats are perfect for households prioritizing safety, as they offer a cushioned surface, which reduces the risk of injury during play. Finally, if you’re setting up a temporary or budget-friendly playhouse, placing it directly on dirt or grass is a no-cost option, though it’s less durable and exposes the wood to moisture, which is why, personally, we do not recommend this no-base solution.
The foundation you choose for your outdoor wooden playhouse depends on factors such as cost, durability, and how permanent you want the structure to be. Making the right choice will ensure your playhouse stands strong and lasts for years to come, providing a safe and enjoyable space for children to play.
At iPlay Pretend, we specialize in designing and building custom playhouses that fit your yard, lifestyle, and vision. Let us help you create the perfect outdoor space for your kids! Call us at (605) 638-3040.
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Phone: (605) 638-3040
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Address: Spearfish, South Dakota 57783, United States
