mega tree cost

[olingerjccj]

I have been digging around to find a mega tree design that I want to use. I started to get interested in the jump tree but when I look at the parts list that is way to expensive. Granted I want a 20ft tree with a star so this thing has gotta be secure. My question: do you think I could build one for about 100 bucks not including the cost of lights and cords or am I dreaming. I may over thinking this but if the pole is 2ft in the ground then that should be secure? Just curious.

John

[dirknerkle]

I should think that $100 ought to cover the basic pole and a topper of some kind to hang the lights. I wonder about a 2' base though. Seems to me that if the pole swayed a bit, it would put a lot of tension on the pole at the point of where it presses against the base mount. One of the reasons why transmitting towers are generally built onto a swivel base and held vertically with guy wires is so that the pole actually has a little flexibility at the base so it can give a little bit with the wind. They do the same thing with bridges -- they're flexible, and not rigid.

So I'd think some sort of base that's well anchored to the ground so it doesn't slide is a good idea, but fastening the pole to the base should have a little play in it. Just my opinion...

Does this mean you didn't get a megatree pole for your birthday???

[olingerjccj]

Does this mean you didn't get a megatree pole for your birthday???[/QUOTE]


That is too funny :-) I found one on craigs list but the person has not replied back. That one is 22ft. I did though get some HD gift cards and wanted to get the parts for the mega tree and my arch stuff this weekend. I dont know if it is just me but kinda feeling crunch time is fast approaching.

[oldcqr]

One of the sites (either this one or PC) had a 'Built a megatree cheap' pseudo-contest one time. I think the lowest we got it down to was like $14.

I did a quick search and it didn't jump out at me. If I find it I'll post a link.