How to Install a Wooden Playhouse: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing your child’s playhouse is an exciting moment—but good preparation ensures everything goes smoothly and safely. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the general principles of playhouse installation, from unpacking to the final touches, based on our experience with both fully pre-assembled kits and DIY models.
Whether you’re setting up one of our OutDoor Collection playhouses or a DIY Kit, here’s what you need to know.
1. Unpacking the Playhouse Safely
Each playhouse is carefully packaged to protect all parts during transport. However, shipping conditions can vary, so please handle the packaging with care. Large panels are typically secured to the package with visible screws at the edges to prevent shifting during delivery.
Tip: Only unscrew the panel you’re about to lift next. This prevents other panels from accidentally falling or collapsing. Be cautious—some panels can be quite heavy, and we always recommend having at least two people during installation.
2. Preparing the Ground and Foundation
One of the most important steps—possibly the most important—is preparing a level and stable foundation. A properly leveled base ensures that wall and roof panels align correctly later.
Take the time to double-check that your surface is even, and your foundation is square. It’s far better to spend an extra hour here than to deal with misaligned panels during construction.
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OutDoor Playhouse Collection floors usually come in one or two pre-assembled sections.
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DIY Playhouse Kits require assembly using beams and boards. Make sure the floor frame forms a proper rectangle and that the diagonals are equal for accurate alignment.
For DIY models, we recommend placing protective builder’s paper on the floor after installation. This helps prevent dirt or mud from staining the natural wood during assembly. In fact, this is a good practice for all playhouse types to help keep the floor clean and looking new.
3. Installing the Walls
For OutDoor Playhouses models, it’s best to align and connect the wall panels to each other first, forming a stable structure. Once the walls are joined, you can install the roof panels, followed by securing the walls to the floor.
If your model includes a loft, ladder, or safety rail, these should be placed inside the playhouse before the roof panels are installed. You don’t need to screw them in just yet—do that at the final stage for the best positioning.
For 8x8 models, we recommend leaving the wall panels unscrewed initially. First, place the triangular gable wall sections (the top parts of the side walls) into their correct position. Then, screw the triangular panels to the vertical wall panels. After that, fasten the wall panels to each other. This sequence ensures better alignment and easier installation of the upper sections.
4. Placing the Roof Panels
OutDoor playhouses come with ready-to-install roof panels that slide easily into place. On the underside, you’ll find pre-drilled holes and screws already inserted to guide the process.
Just make sure the panels are positioned correctly, then fasten them. Again, this part is best done with two people for safety and accuracy. In fact, most parts of the installation process will go faster and more smoothly with two or even three people working together.
5. Tips for DIY Kit Models
If you’re building a DIY Kit with unpainted panels and parts, we highly recommend priming or painting as much as possible before assembly. It’s significantly easier to work on the components while they are laid flat.
Planning to paint trim pieces, flower boxes, or window frames in a different color? Do it before you attach them to the walls. Once they’re screwed in place, painting them neatly becomes much more difficult and time-consuming.
6. Installing the Porch and Railings
Porch components and railings are typically installed last. Make sure that the playhouse door opens freely over the porch deck—this ensures both proper function and a clean finish.
Porches add extra charm and usable space, but they must be aligned correctly for smooth access and durability.
Here you can find terrace assembly video
We wish you a smooth build, joyful moments, and — above all — Happy Assembly! 🛠️🏡