How to Build a Log Cabin Playhouse

Preparation

• 1

  Level the ground in the spot you plan to build the log cabin. Cover the area with gravel.

• 2

  Build the foundation the same way you would a small deck. It can be the exact size of the log cabin or several feet larger. Evenly space 2-by-8 foot pressure treated beams to create floor joists then screw 2-by-6 inch decking onto the joists. Trim to fit.

• 3

  Trim off the tops and bottoms of the pickets flush with the top and bottom rails. This will leave approximately 7 feet. Angle-cut the outer rails so the log cabin walls fit snugly together at the corners.

• 4

  Cut two fence panels down to 5 feet for the sides of the cabin. Snap a chalk line then cut the top of the front and back panels at an angle so they are 5 feet at the edges and 7 feet at the peak.

• 5

  Remove a 2-by-5 foot section for the doorway between the rails. Then cut out an 18-by-18 inch window next to the door and at least one other side to let in plenty of light. Reinforce the door and window openings by framing with scrap fence pickets on the inside of the cabin and mitering the corners.

• 6

  Stain both sides of the fencing before assembling the walls.

Assembly

• 7

  Secure the walls to the foundation and each other with deck screws. Use 3-inch deck screws to connect the rails at the corners.

• 8

  Install 2-by-4s across the top of each wall and attach with screws to the rails. These are the supports for the roof rafters. Attach hurricane ties along each side wall, spaced 24 inches apart.

• 9

  Place 17 7/8-inch-high supports at the front and back made from 2-by-4s. Attach one fence bracket to the top of each one.

• 10

  Lay a 2-by-6 across as the ridge beam. It should slide into the fence brackets. Attach ridge rafter connectors every 24 inches on either side of the ridge beam.

• 11

  Cut four roof rafters for each side with a miter saw from 2-by-6 foot boards. Secure each rafter to the appropriate ridge rafter connectors and hurricane tie.

• 12

  Cover each side with a piece of ½-inch plywood and secure with screws. Add shingles with felt backing.

• 13

  Add a swinging door by building a 2-by-5 foot frame with 2-by-4s. Miter the ends to fit. Attach another 2-by-4 diagonally inside the frame. Screw on fence pickets vertically and trim to fit. Hang the door with black fence hinges and attach handles to the inside and outside. Stain or paint the door.