Cubby House Installation Guide

The Complete Cubby House Installation Guide: From Site Selection to First Play

Installing a timber cubby house is an exciting project that transforms your backyard into a play paradise. While the process requires planning and effort, most families successfully complete installation themselves with our detailed guidance.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the installation process, from choosing the perfect location to the final safety inspection before your children's first play session.

Before You Begin: Planning Checklist

Essential Pre-Installation Steps:

• ✅ Read the entire instruction manual
• ✅ Measure and mark the installation site
• ✅ Prepare level foundation
• ✅ Paint all timber components (recommended)
• ✅ Gather all necessary tools
• ✅ Recruit a second adult helper
• ✅ Plan for 4-8 hours assembly time
• ✅ Check weather forecast (dry day needed)

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Location

Location selection is crucial for your cubby's longevity, safety, and how much your children will use it.

Essential Location Requirements:

Level Ground is Non-Negotiable

• Uneven ground causes timber movement, gaps, and structural warping
• Check level with a long spirit level or laser level
• Slope greater than 50mm across the site requires leveling work
• Foundation must compensate for any slope

Good Drainage is Essential

• Avoid low-lying areas where water collects
• Water pooling leads to timber rot and foundation settling
• Slight slope away from cubby is ideal (but overall site must be level)
• Consider drainage patterns during heavy rain

Visibility for Supervision

• Choose location visible from main living areas
• Kitchen or living room windows are ideal vantage points
• Balance privacy for play with adult supervision needs
• Consider sightlines from multiple areas of home

Sun and Shade Considerations

• Partial shade is ideal - morning sun, afternoon shade
• Full sun all day makes cubby uncomfortably hot
• Complete shade can create damp conditions and limit play value
• Consider sun movement across seasons

Safety Clearances

• Minimum 2m clear space on all sides
• Extra clearance for slides (2m from bottom)
• Additional space for swing attachments (2m radius)
• Keep away from fence lines (climbing hazard)
• Avoid placement under large trees (falling branches, excess leaves)
• Check for overhead hazards (power lines, low branches)

Step 2: Foundation Options

A stable, level foundation is absolutely critical. Your foundation choice depends on budget, yard conditions, and permanence desired.

Option 1: Timber Sleeper Base (Recommended for Most Installations)

Why We Recommend This:

• Most cost-effective option
• DIY-friendly installation
• Excellent drainage
• Easy to level on slightly uneven ground
• Can be adjusted or moved if needed
• Keeps timber off ground preventing moisture

Materials Needed:

• Treated pine sleepers (200mm x 75mm or 200mm x 50mm)
• Calculate based on cubby dimensions
• Need enough to support all floor joists and walls
• Typically 6-12 sleepers depending on cubby size

Installation Steps:

1. Mark out exact cubby footprint with string and pegs
2. Arrange sleepers to support all floor joists (check manual for joist positions)
3. Add sleepers under all wall locations
4. Level each sleeper using spirit level
5. Use shims (small wooden wedges) or adjust sand/soil underneath to level
6. Check level in multiple directions
7. Use long straight board across sleepers to check for overall level
8. Compact soil around sleepers for stability

Option 2: Concrete Slab (Most Permanent)

Best For:

• Very uneven yards requiring significant leveling
• Areas with poor drainage
• Permanent installations
• Maximum stability and longevity

Specifications:

• Minimum 100mm thick concrete slab
• Extend 300mm beyond cubby footprint on all sides
• Reinforced with steel mesh
• Slight slope away from center for drainage
• Requires professional concrete work

Advantages:

• Maximum stability
• Perfect level surface
• Excellent drainage when properly constructed
• No ground moisture contact
• Longest-lasting foundation option
• Can double as patio space around cubby

Disadvantages:

• Highest cost
• Requires professional installation
• Permanent - difficult to relocate
• Longer installation timeline (concrete curing)

Step 3: Tools and Materials Needed

Essential Tools:

• Cordless drill/driver (at least 18V recommended)
• Drill bits (pilot holes) and driver bits
• Spirit level (600mm or longer)
• Carpenter's square
• Measuring tape (5m or longer)
• Hammer
• Adjustable spanner or socket set
• Saw (for any trimming if needed)
• Pencil for marking

Helpful But Not Essential:

• Second drill for drilling and driving simultaneously
• Step ladder
• Clamps for holding pieces during assembly
• Rubber mallet
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves

Foundation Materials (Sleeper Base):

• Treated pine sleepers (quality timber suitable for ground contact)
• Wooden shims for leveling
• Landscape fabric (optional but recommended)
• Crusher dust or sand (optional for leveling base)

Step 4: Organize Components Before Assembly

Taking time to organize before starting saves frustration and errors.

Unpack and Inventory:

1. Carefully unpack all cartons
2. Keep cartons intact until confirmed all parts present
3. Lay out all timber components on drop cloths or tarps
4. Organize hardware (screws, bolts, brackets) in containers
5. Match components to instruction manual
6. Confirm all pieces present before starting

Organisation Tips:

• Group similar pieces together (walls, roof panels, floor sections)
• Keep hardware organized by type in labeled containers or bags
• Have instruction manual easily accessible
• Set up work area near final cubby location if possible
• Protect components from weather if assembly takes multiple days

Step 5: Assembly Process

General Assembly Guidelines:

Read Instructions Completely First

• Don't start assembly until you've read the entire manual
• Understand the sequence of steps
• Identify any steps requiring two people
• Note any warnings or special instructions

Follow Sequence Carefully

• Steps build on previous steps
• Out-of-sequence assembly can require disassembly
• If something doesn't fit easily, check you haven't missed a step
• Force should rarely be needed - timber pieces should align naturally

Don't Fully Tighten Initially

• Leave screws slightly loose during initial assembly
• Allows adjustment to square and level structure
• Once entire structure is together and squared, tighten all fasteners
• This is crucial for preventing twist and ensuring proper fit

Use Level Frequently

• Check walls are vertical (plumb) as you assemble
• Check floors and platforms are horizontal (level)
• Small adjustments during assembly prevent big problems later
• Foundation issues become obvious during assembly - address immediately

Typical Assembly Sequence (varies by model):

1. Floor/Platform: Usually built first as base structure
2. Wall Frames: Assemble walls flat on ground, then raise into position
3. Connect Walls: Join wall sections together
4. Roof Frame: Install roof support beams
5. Roof Panels: Attach roof cladding
6. Stairs/Ladder: Install access points
7. Slide: Attach slide to platform
8. Trim & Details: Add finishing touches (fascia, decorative elements)
9. Windows & Doors: Install perspex and door hardware
10. Final Checks: Tighten all fasteners, safety inspection

Step 6: Common Assembly Challenges & Solutions

Challenge: Pieces Don't Line Up Properly

• Cause: Foundation not level, or structure not squared
• Solution: Check foundation level. Use square to check corners are 90°. Loosen fasteners, adjust, re-square, then tighten.

Challenge: Roof Appears Crooked

• Cause: Usually indicates overall structure not level or walls not plumb
• Solution: Check foundation and wall verticality. Address foundation issues first, then adjust walls.

Challenge: Gaps Between Components

• Cause: Structure not square, uneven foundation, or components twisted
• Solution: Ensure structure is square and level. Small gaps (1-5mm) are normal and can be sealed. Large gaps indicate alignment issue.

Challenge: Screws Stripping or Not Gripping

• Cause: Pilot hole wrong size, screw hitting knot, or driving at wrong angle
• Solution: Drill proper pilot hole (slightly smaller than screw shaft). Adjust position slightly if hitting dense knot. Ensure square angle when driving.

Challenge: Timber Pieces Appear Different Sizes

• Cause: Timber is natural material with slight variations
• Solution: Small differences (1-2mm) are normal. Larger differences - check you have correct piece for that position.

Step 7: Installing Accessories

Slide Installation:

• Position at recommended height for smooth transition
• Ensure proper angle (usually 30-40 degrees)
• Secure with all provided fasteners
• Check that slide is smooth and free of burrs
• Verify 2m clear landing zone at bottom

Climbing Rocks:

• Space evenly for appropriate challenge level
• Install securely with bolts through timber
• Test each rock for tightness
• Position for natural climbing progression

Windows and Doors:

• Handle perspex carefully to avoid scratching
• Don't over-tighten fasteners on perspex (can crack)
• Ensure door swings freely and closes properly
• Check all door hardware is secure

Step 8: Final Safety Inspection

Before allowing children to play, conduct thorough safety check:

Structural Checks:

• ✅ All screws and bolts tight
• ✅ No loose components
• ✅ Platform is level and stable
• ✅ Railings secure (if applicable)
• ✅ Stairs/ladder firmly attached
• ✅ Structure doesn't rock or wobble
• ✅ Foundation stable

Surface Checks:

• ✅ No splinters or rough edges
• ✅ No protruding screws or sharp edges
• ✅ All perspex windows secure
• ✅ Slide smooth and properly attached
• ✅ Paint fully dry if recently painted

Safety Zone Checks:

• ✅ 2m clearance on all sides
• ✅ Slide landing zone clear
• ✅ No trip hazards around cubby
• ✅ Good visibility for supervision

Step 9: Post-Installation Care

First Week:

• Check all fasteners daily - timber settling may loosen some
• Monitor for any structural issues
• Watch how children use the cubby to identify any safety concerns
• Make any necessary adjustments

First Month:

• Weekly fastener checks
• Watch for any gaps opening (indicates settling)
• Ensure foundation remains level
• Touch up any paint scratches from assembly

Ongoing:

• Monthly visual inspections
• Seasonal deep checks
• Regular cleaning and maintenance
• Annual comprehensive inspection

Troubleshooting Common Post-Installation Issues

Issue: Small Gaps Appearing Between Boards

• Normal or Problem: Normal - timber expands/contracts with moisture
• Action: Gaps typically close when moisture returns. If concerned, apply exterior sealant.

Issue: Doors or Windows Sticking

• Cause: Timber expansion from humidity, or structure settling
• Action: Check structure is still level. Light sanding of edges usually solves issue.

Issue: Structure Feels Less Stable After Few Weeks

• Cause: Fasteners loosening as timber settles
• Action: Go through and tighten all screws and bolts. This is normal during first month.

Issue: Platform Not Level Anymore

• Cause: Foundation settling or shifting
• Action: Check foundation level. Add shims or adjust sleepers as needed. Address promptly.

Installation Timeline Planning

Realistic timeline for complete installation including painting:

Option 1: Pre-Paint Then Assemble (Recommended)

• Day 1: Site preparation, foundation setup
• Day 2: Unpack, organize, sand, apply primer
• Day 3: Apply first coat exterior paint
• Day 4: Apply second coat exterior paint
• Day 5-6: Paint curing (don't assemble yet)
• Day 7: Assembly (4-8 hours)
• Day 8: Touch-ups, final inspection, first play!

Option 2: Assemble Then Paint

• Day 1: Site preparation, foundation setup
• Day 2: Assembly (4-8 hours)
• Day 3: Sand and apply primer to assembled cubby
• Day 4: Apply first coat exterior paint
• Day 5: Apply second coat exterior paint
• Day 6-7: Paint curing
• Day 8: Final inspection, first play!

When to Consider Professional Help

While most families can DIY, consider professional help if:

• Yard has significant slope requiring complex leveling
• Concrete work needed and you lack experience
• Limited time available (professionals can complete in 1-2 days)
• Physical limitations make assembly challenging
• Installing very large or complex cubby model
• Want to ensure perfect result without trial and error

Professional Services to Consider:

• Landscaper: Site preparation and leveling
• Concreter: Foundation slab or footings
• Handyman: Complete assembly
• Painter: Professional painting (if desired)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a cubby house on a slope?
Yes, but requires proper foundation. Timber sleeper base works for gentle slopes. Steeper slopes need concrete footings with posts to create level platform. Not recommended for very steep slopes without professional assessment.

How long does assembly take?
Depends on cubby size and experience: Small (3-4 hours), Medium (4-6 hours), Large (6-8+ hours). First-time assemblers add 20-30% more time. Two adults recommended throughout.

Do I need council approval?
Usually not required for temporary structures like cubby houses, but regulations vary by location. Check with local council. Generally, structures under certain size and not permanently fixed don't need approval.

Can I install in winter?
Yes, but choose dry days for assembly. Painting is more challenging in cold weather (paint doesn't dry properly below 10°C). Consider painting in warmer months if possible.

What if I'm missing parts?
Check all cartons thoroughly - small parts sometimes hide. Contact our customer service immediately with your order number. We'll send missing components promptly.

Should I anchor the cubby to the ground?
Generally not necessary if foundation is stable and cubby is properly assembled. In storm-prone areas or for very light cubbies, anchoring may be advisable. Consult professional for best method for your situation.

Final Thoughts

Installing a cubby house is a rewarding project that creates lasting memories. Take your time with foundation prep, follow instructions carefully, and don't hesitate to make adjustments as needed.

The effort you invest in proper installation pays dividends in years of stable, safe play. Your children will treasure their backyard cubby for many years to come!