EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 4×4 Mercia Snug Tower Kids Wooden Playhouse
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 18 Data Points Updated - 2 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: SI-002-001-0043BUN
Size: 4' x 4'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 4×4 Mercia Snug Tower Kids Wooden Playhouse
The 4×4 Mercia Snug Tower Kids Wooden Playhouse stands out in the crowded market of children’s garden playhouses. With a delightful apex roof and a compact footprint of 4′ x 4′, this playhouse caters to the needs of families looking to create a secure and imaginative play space for their children. Our evaluation covers materials, construction quality, usability, and value for money, providing you with a well-rounded perspective on this product.
Design and Build Quality
The first aspect that caught our attention was the construction design of the playhouse. Made from shiplap tongue & groove cladding, it offers a durable exterior that is known for its longevity. This form of cladding is employed by 47% of the top-performing playhouses in this category, making it a reliable choice. Furthermore, the dip-treated wood ensures that the playhouse is well-protected from weather damage, with similar treatments found in 82% of high-performing playhouses.
In terms of size, this playhouse features three windows, enhancing airflow and visibility, and is equipped with styrene glazing—a material that 94% of the top 10% of playhouses utilise. This glazing is not only shatter-resistant but also safe for children, giving parents peace of mind.
Roofing and Flooring
The roof of the Mercia Snug Tower is constructed from OSB and features a mineral felt covering—materials that are both effective and common in this product category. While the OSB is rated as an average roofing material, the use of mineral felt, which is found in 88% of high-quality playhouses, suggests strong waterproofing capabilities. However, the roof thickness is only 8mm, which ranks lower than some competitors, yet still performs adequately based on our analysis.
The flooring is also made from OSB, aligning with industry standards, and contributes to the structural integrity of the playhouse. Our experts found this type of flooring used in about 19% of similar-sized playhouses, placing the Mercia playhouse comfortably within a reasonable range of performance.
Ease of Assembly
One major highlight that we appreciate is the ease of assembly. Rated highly for user-friendliness, this playhouse earns a score of 4.5 for assembly ease. It is delivered flat-packed and requires self-assembly, which is standard for this type of product. Many users express satisfaction with the relatively straightforward steps to put it together, often requiring just a few hours of work with simple tools.
Dimensions and Measurements
The exterior measurements at 1356mm x 2151mm offer a modest yet adequate play area for kids. From our analysis, we note that the door dimensions are slightly shorter than average at 3′ x 2′, which may concern some taller children, yet it remains manageable for most young kids aged between 3 to 8 years old.
Market Position and Value for Money
Holding an Expert Score of 82, the Mercia Snug Tower playhouse is just above the average performance level of 4′ x 4′ playhouses within its price range. Speaking of price, we found competitive offers across various retailers, with prices ranging from £409.99 to £675, substantially lower than the average cost compared to similar products. Given its build quality and the notable features it provides, we can confidently assert that this playhouse represents strong value for money, particularly at the lower end of the price spectrum.
Final Thoughts
The 4×4 Mercia Snug Tower Kids Wooden Playhouse is a durable, well-constructed option for families seeking to augment their outdoor space with a touch of fun. While it does present some minor drawbacks—like the slightly shorter door height and thinner roofing materials—the positives outweigh these concerns. The ease of assembly, safety features, and tenable pricing suggest that this playhouse would serve well for many families.
If you’re in the market for a small garden playhouse, the Mercia Snug Tower is worth considering based on quality, usability, and design. It’s particularly well-suited for parents looking for a balance between fun and safety in their outdoor play structures.
Where to Buy
Before making your purchase, we recommend checking several retailers for the best price. Our research suggests the following prices across well-known platforms:
- HomeBase: £675.00
- Wickes: £510.00
- ShedStore: £409.99
- BuyShedsDirect: £409.99
With its standout features and solid construction, the 4×4 Mercia Snug Tower Kids Wooden Playhouse is an excellent choice that is set to provide years of joy and creativity for your children.
Product Details
Q: What are the external dimensions of this garden building?
A: The external dimensions of this garden building are 1356 mm in width and 2151 mm in length. This is a modest size, making it ideal for smaller gardens where space is at a premium while still providing ample room for storage or a small workspace.
Q: How does the internal space compare to the external dimensions?
A: The internal dimensions are 1170 mm by 1110 mm. While the internal space is smaller than the external dimensions, it's typical for a shiplap construction. You’ll have enough space for garden tools, bikes, or even a small workshop. However, I'd recommend measuring your intended storage items to ensure they fit comfortably.
Q: Is this building compliant with safety standards?
A: Yes, the building is EN71 certified, which indicates that it meets essential health and safety requirements. This is particularly valuable if you're planning to use the space for children’s play or any activities that demand a higher safety standard.
Q: How is the building delivered, and what should I know about assembly?
A: The building is delivered flat-packed, so you will need to assemble it yourself. I’d suggest having a helper handy, as some parts can be cumbersome to manage alone. Make sure to install it on a flat and level area to ensure stability and avoid future issues.
Q: What type of wood is used, and how should I maintain it?
A: The garden building is made from natural wood, which gives it a classic look but requires treatment to protect against weather damage and rot. I strongly recommend applying a weatherproof sealant or paint shortly after assembly and regularly maintaining it to prolong its life and maintain appearance.
Q: How many doors and what type of glazing does the building have?
A: The building features one door that measures 887 mm in height and 531 mm in width. This door size is practical, allowing easy access for garden tools and equipment. The glazing is made of styrene, which is a lighter and shatter-resistant alternative to glass, although I would still be cautious with very heavy objects.
Q: What kind of roof materials and coverings are used?
A: The roof is constructed from OSB with an 8 mm thickness, which is durable yet lightweight. It's topped with mineral felt, providing good protection against rain and snow. Just keep in mind that while OSB is sturdy, it should be monitored for moisture if the roof is not adequately maintained.
Q: Is there a specific area I must prepare for installation?
A: Yes, it’s crucial to have a flat and level area to install the building properly. If the surface isn't level, the structure could become unstable over time, leading to complications during use and potential damage.
Q: What about the flooring; what materials are used?
A: The floor is made from OSB, which is fairly sturdy for a garden building. It’s important to ensure that this floor is protected from moisture to prevent rot. If you’re using the building for heavy storage, you might consider reinforcing the floor with additional supports.
