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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 2’2 x 1’2 Shire Mid Plastic Garden Storage Cupboard with Shelves
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 21 Data Points Updated - 2 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: FREEF71B-1AA
Size: 2' x 1'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 2’2 x 1’2 Shire Mid Plastic Garden Storage Cupboard with Shelves
The 2’2 x 1’2 Shire Mid Plastic Garden Storage Cupboard is a noteworthy contender in the garden storage category, designed for those needing efficient and convenient outdoor storage solutions. With its compact dimensions and practical features, this storage cupboard aims to provide a blend of functionality and simplicity. Let’s delve into the various aspects of this product to see if it truly delivers on its promises.
Overall Design and Structure
This garden storage unit is primarily crafted from plastic, featuring a pent style roof that adds a modern touch while also enhancing water drainage. Measuring at 2 feet wide and 1 foot deep, with a suitable height of 3 feet, the cupboard is ideal for holding smaller garden tools, outdoor furniture accessories, or other outdoor essentials. However, it’s important to consider whether these dimensions align with your specific storage needs.
Quality of Materials and Construction
Our expert evaluation indicates a mixed bag with a materials quality score of 2 out of 5, which suggests that the plastic used, while lightweight and easy to maintain, may not offer the same durability levels as some wooden alternatives. The walls feature a thickness of 2mm; this is somewhat below-average compared to competitors in the same category, which could raise concerns about potential wear over time.
Additionally, the construction quality received a score of 3 out of 5, indicating an adequate build, though it may lack the sturdiness found in higher-end models. For assembly, the Shire Mid Storage Cupboard is straightforward with an ease of construction score of 5, making it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts or first-time buyers who appreciate simplicity.
Treatment and Protection
This storage cupboard benefits from a UV protected treatment, which is commendable as it fights against sun damage and enhances the shelf life of the plastic. Our analyses show that UV treatment is applied on only 2% of similarly sized garden storage, highlighting this as a significant feature that sets it apart in terms of longevity and protection from the elements.
Value for Money
One of the standout attributes of the Shire Mid Storage Cupboard is its pricing. With a current retail price of approximately £74.99 from preferred vendors like ShedStore and BuyShedsDirect, it offers great value for money. Experts rated it a full 5 out of 5 for value, largely attributed to its competitive pricing against its performance and features. Shoppers are paying less than the average price for comparable models while getting a reasonable quality product.
Door Features and Accessibility
The unit features double doors with a height of 2’6″ and a width of 2 feet, providing ample access to the interior. One potential downside, however, is that the door height is about 395mm shorter than the average for this size range, which might be a concern if you plan to store taller items.
Market Comparison and Alternatives
In comparison to 64 other 2′ x 1′ garden storages analysed, the Shire Mid Plastic Garden Storage Cupboard holds a competitive place. While it does have a lower expert score of 75 (just 1% below average), it stands out in terms of value. For those seeking alternatives, the Keter City 113L Outdoor Garden Storage Box is significantly more affordable at £28 but with a slightly lower expert score of 70. Conversely, for those prioritising quality, the vidaXL Garden Storage Cabinet offers a superior rating of 82 for just £49.
Final Verdict
The 2’2 x 1’2 Shire Mid Plastic Garden Storage Cupboard with Shelves is aimed at homeowners looking for an affordable, compact storage solution without heavy-duty expectations. While it may not excel in material thickness and construction quality, the generous UV treatment and easy assembly provide solid justification for its purchase, particularly at this price point. If you are in need of a basic, effective garden storage option for smaller items, this product is certainly worth considering.
As always, we recommend assessing your specific needs against this model’s features to ensure it meets your expectations and requirements before completing a purchase.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Mid Storage Cupboard with Shelves?
A: The Mid Storage Cupboard with Shelves has a width of 680 mm, a depth of 370 mm, and a height of 840 mm at the ridge. These dimensions make it a compact yet spacious option for storing various garden tools and supplies, fitting neatly in smaller spaces without compromising on storage capability.
Q: What is the floor material and thickness of the cupboard?
A: The cupboard features a polypropylene floor with a thickness of 20 mm. This material is quite robust and weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor or garden use. However, it's worth noting that while polypropylene is durable, it may not provide the same aesthetic appeal as traditional wooden floors. Make sure to weigh aesthetics against practicality when making your decision.
Q: Is assembly required for this cupboard?
A: Yes, self-assembly is required for the Mid Storage Cupboard. While this may add an extra step to set up, it offers you the flexibility to put it together at your own pace. As someone who has assembled similar products, I often find that step-by-step instructions can make the process straightforward, although a second pair of hands can be beneficial!
Q: What is the weight of the cupboard, and does it affect its stability?
A: The cupboard weighs 25 kg, which is fairly lightweight for a storage unit of its size. While this makes it easy to move during installation, it can also be a concern in terms of stability against strong winds if placed outdoors. I recommend securing it to the ground if you live in an area prone to high winds to prevent any tipping over.
Q: Can I use the cupboard for heavy items?
A: While the cupboard is designed for general storage, it’s essential to consider the weight distribution. Due to its polypropylene construction, it can handle a reasonable amount of weight, but I wouldn’t recommend using it for extremely heavy items. It is best suited for lightweight tools, gardening supplies, or other accessories that won't stress the structure.
Q: What size are the doors, and do they provide easy access?
A: The cupboard features a double door setup, with each door measuring 765 mm in height and 620 mm in width. This size allows for easy access to stored items, even when reaching for larger tools. The design is user-friendly, making it convenient to retrieve and store items without hassle.
Q: How does the cupboard perform in terms of weather resistance?
A: Given that both the floor and roof materials are made of polypropylene, the cupboard is quite resistant to various weather conditions. Polypropylene does not rot or warp like wood can, which definitely adds to its longevity in outdoor environments. However, always check for any drainage issues or dampness in your area to ensure the longevity of any garden building.
