How will the treehouse affect the tree in strong winds?
A treehouse will act as a sail in strong winds, which can add a large load to the tree’s roots. Trees normally withstand excessive wind speeds by shedding parts of their structure, first leaves, then small branches, then large branches. This means that the area that catches the wind and could potentially push the tree over is limited to the large branches and trunk, as smaller parts will be blown off before wind speeds are high enough to push the tree over. A treehouse can therefore present a considerable extra wind catchment area. A tree in a forest will experience much lower wind speeds than one in the open. A treehouse low in the tree will experience lower wind speeds and will produce lower forces on the roots because the leverage effect of the trunk will be less. A treehouse with open walls that allow air through will cause much lower sail effects. A tree will react to the presence of a treehouse within a few years by adding extra thickness to supporting roots. This means the tree
