Do nails, screws, bolts, ropes or cables damage the tree?
The use of nails, screws or bolts can cause health problems for a tree if not fitted correctly. Cables and ropes slung over branches are very damaging, as they cut through the bark as the structure moves. Any damage to the bark of the tree, whether by nail, screw or bolt, is a potential entry point for infections and bacteria, so it makes sense to keep the overall number to a minimum. Multiple punctures can cause dangerous compartmentalisation. The general recommendation for fixing supports is to use a single, large bolt fitted into a cleanly drilled pilot hole. Nails and screws are not strong enough for major supports without causing tree damage. For more detailed information on how trees can be damaged by treehouses and how to minimise the problems, see the tree damage page.
