EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 6′ x 4′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 52 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: OPASUM64DDMHDBUN
Size: 6' x 4'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 6′ x 4′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House
As avid gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts, we understand how essential a summer house can be for those sunny afternoons spent potting plants or relaxing with a good book. The 6′ x 4′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House offers a blend of functionality and charm, but how does it stack up against other options in the market? Let’s dive in!
Standout Features and Core Specifications
This summer house sports a classic apex roof design, which not only adds aesthetic appeal but also ensures effective rainwater runoff. Measuring in at 6′ x 4′, it provides a compact yet comfortable space for various outdoor activities.
- Roofing: The apex roof is complemented by an OSB (Oriented Strand Board) construction, which we find to be one of the best roofing materials for this size. The roof measures 8.0 mm thick, although it’s slightly on the thinner side for long-term durability.
- Cladding: It features overlap board wall construction. In our analysis, this is the least favourable cladding type found amongst summer houses, with a poor performance in the durability department.
- Windows: With four shatter-resistant acrylic windows, this model maximises natural light. However, it is important to note that this glazing type is not commonly used in higher-rated summer houses.
- Doors: The summer house includes lockable double doors, which enhance security and ease of access. The doors feature a pad bolt locking system, showing consideration for safety.
Construction Quality and Composition
Upon assessment, our experts rated the material quality at a 3 out of 5 and the construction quality at 3.5 out of 5. It’s clear that while the summer house has some commendable aspects, such as its easy assembly and quality of the door locking mechanism, the board-cladding is a significant drawback.
The pressure-treated wood is a significant plus, protecting against rot, fungi, and pests. It carries a robust 15-year guarantee, which adds peace of mind to your investment. However, when examining the product specifications, we find it lacks the top-notch materials often seen in competing models.
Ease of Construction
One of the standout points we love about this product is its ease of assembly, earning it a perfect score of 5 out of 5. The process is straightforward, meaning you could set this up in just a weekend. Even novice DIYers should find this manageable.
Value for Money
When considering cost versus quality, this summer house performs exceptionally well, with a 5 out of 5 scoring for value for money. Priced around £529 across various sellers, including Sheds.co.uk and ShedStore, it sits lower in cost compared to many alternatives without sacrificing some essential features.
Market Analysis and Position
In the broader context of summer houses, this model ranks considerably lower in terms of expert scoring. Currently, it sits at 395 out of 1188 summer house products reviewed, showcasing its position within the market. While its price is appealing, its lower quality construction may lead discerning buyers to explore alternatives.
Comparative Options
For those weighing the options, here are a couple of alternatives that might suit your needs better:
- Redlands 6′ x 6′ Pressure Treated Octagonal Summer House: With an Expert Score of 97, it might be a larger investment at £2,544 but offers far superior construction and materials.
- Bar Pent 6×4 Summerhouses: For a budget option, priced at just £142, this model presents a lower-cost alternative with respectable expert rating.
Conclusion
In summary, the 6′ x 4′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House is a mixed bag. It’s an excellent choice for individuals on a tight budget or those who value ease of assembly but may not satisfy those who prioritise long-term durability or premium materials. We recommend checking out alternatives if you’re looking for higher quality and longevity. Nonetheless, its sweet spot in terms of price makes it an option worth considering for casual use.
Ultimately, your choice should match your specific needs and budget, so enjoy the process of finding the best fit for your outdoor space!
Product Details
Q: What type of floor material does this garden building use, and what are its benefits?
A: The garden building features a robust floor made from 14mm OSB (Oriented Strand Board). This material is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for withstanding the weight of furniture and foot traffic. Its robust construction can enhance the longevity of the building. However, it's worth noting that OSB can be sensitive to moisture, so ensuring that the building is well-ventilated is essential to prevent moisture-related issues.
Q: Is the glazing material safe for children or pets?
A: Yes, the garden building is equipped with shatter-resistant acrylic. This material significantly reduces the risk of breakage compared to traditional glass. In my opinion, this feature is particularly beneficial for families with young children or active pets, as it provides an extra layer of safety while still allowing natural light to flood in.
Q: How does the roof covering contribute to the building's performance?
A: The building uses Mineral Felt for its roof covering, which is a classic and reliable choice in garden buildings. It provides excellent waterproofing and weather resistance, which helps protect the interior from rain and snow. However, installation requires proper sealing to ensure its effectiveness over time, so I suggest checking periodically for wear and replacing it as needed.
Q: Can I easily assemble this garden building myself?
A: While it is possible to assemble the building yourself, it is recommended that you have two persons for this task. The assembly may involve the lifting and positioning of heavy components, which can be challenging for one person alone. Having a partner not only makes the assembly easier but also ensures that everything is properly aligned. Based on my experience, this collaborative effort can lead to a quicker and more satisfying build process.
Q: What is the door size and is it adequate for access?
A: The garden building features a door that measures 1652mm in height and 1156mm in width. This size should provide adequate access for most standard-sized items, like garden equipment or furniture. However, if you plan to move larger items in and out, I recommend measuring them beforehand to prevent any access issues.
Q: Are there any opening windows in the design for ventilation?
A: Interestingly, this model does not feature any opening windows. While this might seem like a drawback in terms of ventilation, it can actually contribute to a more secure environment, as there are fewer points of entry for intruders. If ventilation is a priority for you, you may want to consider additional solutions such as a roof vent or ensuring adequate airflow through the doorway.
Q: What type of locking system does the garden building have?
A: The locking system of this building consists of a pad bolt. While this is a straightforward and reliable option, it may not be the most secure locking mechanism available. I recommend considering additional security measures if the building will hold valuable items or if you live in a particularly vulnerable area.
Q: What are the environmental credentials of this garden building?
A: This product proudly boasts the 'Made in the UK' label and is certified sustainable. This means that it not only supports local manufacturing jobs but is also constructed with materials sourced in a manner that is more environmentally friendly than many alternatives. In my opinion, this is a significant plus for eco-conscious consumers and adds to the overall value of the product.
