Any ideas on how to stop small objects from falling in?

Karen
by Karen
Raised deck built around the tree. No access under the deck as descending stairs surround. We need to retrieve small objects (match box cars, toys) or better yet prevent things from falling in. Any ideas?
Approximate 2-3 inch gap around trunk
  11 answers
  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Jan 11, 2018

    Not real pretty but a pool noodle could be wrapped around it and secured for little cost.

  • Molly B Molly B on Jan 11, 2018

    Try a magnetic retrieving tool...

  • Amanda Amanda on Jan 11, 2018

    Hi Karen. You could get some clear PVC hose and fill it with small pebbles then wrap it around. It would be a little decorative then too.

  • Gracie Gracie on Jan 14, 2018

    You could caulk it and then cover the top with pebbles or something decorative

  • Peter Peter on Jan 14, 2018

    Perhaps Felt... Do not use solids to fill the gap, the trunk will get chafed.. or the deck will get damaged. Whatever you use should be soft.. .pool noodles (maybe pipe insulating tubes) can also do the job.

    Sadly, the size of that gap makes it appear to me that there's a project within 10 years to increase the opening for the tree.

  • Tracie Bowman Reynolds Tracie Bowman Reynolds on Jan 14, 2018

    build a trap door

  • Dee Landergren Dee Landergren on Jan 14, 2018

    Wrap a thick hemp rope around it

  • 27524803 27524803 on Jan 14, 2018

    I have seen several of the "tree house guys" use a large diameter rope, or a bicycle or auto inner tube.

  • Sie15374439 Sie15374439 on Jan 14, 2018

    Sawdust

  • Holly Errara Holly Errara on Jan 15, 2018

    Use expandable foam insulation & remove the excess with a rag or trowel. You can paint the foam after it is dry or use give it some bling by adding glass beads or colorful stones. Just press them into the foam before it’s completely set up.

  • Cindy Trumbo Barrett Cindy Trumbo Barrett on Jan 16, 2018

    Maybe take a strip of metal fabric wire and bend it around the opening and fill with sphangum moss.