EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 6′ x 5’6 Shire Cubby Childrens/ Kids Wooden Garden Playhouse
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 49 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: CUBB0604DSL-1AA
Size: 6' x 5'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 6′ x 5’6 Shire Cubby Childrens/ Kids Wooden Garden Playhouse
When it comes to providing a safe, fun, and engaging play environment for children, the 6′ x 5’6 Shire Cubby Childrens/ Kids Wooden Garden Playhouse stands out as a solid choice. Not only does it look fantastic in any garden setting, but it also features construction quality and materials that show a great promise of longevity and playability. Our expert analysis dives deep into the specifics of this playhouse, including its construction quality, usability, and overall value for money, comparing them against the latest market data.
Product Overview
The Shire Cubby features an apex style roof and is constructed from high-quality shiplap tongue & groove wood, well known for its durability and resistance to warping. It is dip treated for enhanced protection against weather elements, ensuring that the playhouse is ready to take on whatever your little ones can throw at it. The sturdy single door includes a magnetic safety catch, providing peace of mind for parents while ensuring easy access for children.
Key Features
- Size: 6′ x 5’6″
- Roof Type: Apex, ensuring efficient water drainage
- Windows: 2 styrene glazed windows provide natural light for an inviting play area
- Floor: Tongue & groove construction, renowned for its strength
- Wall Thickness: 12 mm, rated as average among similar products
- Roof Thickness: 11 mm, typical for playhouses of this size
- Guarantee: 1 Year
Construction Quality
On our quality scale, we’ve assigned a score of 3 out of 5 for material quality and a slightly higher score of 3.5 for construction quality. While the materials are robust enough for regular use, they do not quite reach the standard of some higher-end competitors. However, the ease of assembly — rated at a top-notch 5 out of 5 — absolutely makes this playhouse an appealing choice for weekend projects. With a straightforward setup time of around 3 to 5 hours, it’s a fun family affair that will leave you with satisfied smiles all around.
Value for Money
Considering the current market, we rated this playhouse a commendable 4.5 out of 5 for value for money. Not only does it come in at a competitive price point of £439.99, which is £102 less than the average for similar products, but it also boasts an Expert Score of 80 — placing it just above the average for playhouses of its size and design.
Comparative Market Analysis
From our extensive research and data analysis, the Shire Cubby playhouse ranks at a commendable position within its category. Out of 188 playhouses analyzed, it currently sits in the top 20%, moving up by 39 slots in the ranking. This is indicative of its market appeal and the quality that it offers compared to other available options.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-quality shiplap tongue & groove cladding
- Ease of assembly makes it DIY-friendly
- Attractive design with ample natural light from windows
- Great value for money compared to other similar products
Cons:
- Material quality is not the highest tier available
- Height restrictions may be less accommodating for taller children
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for a playhouse that promises joy and adventure for your children without breaking the bank, the 6′ x 5’6 Shire Cubby Childrens/ Kids Wooden Garden Playhouse is a worthy contender. Its design prioritises safety, usability, and longevity, making it an excellent addition to your garden. While it may not be the top choice for those seeking the absolute best in material quality, its robust design, competitive pricing, and user-friendly assembly make it a solid choice for families. You’ll be delighted to see how your children’s imaginations flourish in this charming wooden play space.
Availability: The Shire Cubby is available for purchase primarily at ShedStore and BuyShedsDirect, both retailing at £439.99.
For Similar Alternatives
If you’re considering other options, our reviews recommend checking out:
- Dahlia Playhouse – Best value option
- Mercia 6 x 5ft Wooden Snug Playhouse – Highest Expert Score
In conclusion, the Shire Cubby playhouse is a fun, functional addition to your backyard that will provide children with hours of imaginative play. As we continue exploring your options for outdoor playhouses, we hope this review helps guide you to the best choice for your family.
Product Details
Q: What type of flooring material is used in this garden building?
A: The flooring in this garden building is constructed from OSB (Oriented Strand Board). OSB is known for its durability and structural integrity, making it a solid choice for garden buildings. Personally, I appreciate OSB because it provides a sturdy base that's resistant to wear and tear, although it's important to keep it dry to avoid moisture damage.
Q: How thick is the flooring in this structure?
A: The flooring thickness is 11.0mm, which is fairly standard for garden buildings. This thickness provides a good balance between weight-bearing capability and ease of installation. In my experience, a thicker floor can offer better support, especially if you're placing heavy items like tools or furniture inside.
Q: What is the construction type used in this garden building?
A: This garden building utilises a Tongue and Groove construction method. This design is great because it allows for a tighter fit between the panels, reducing the likelihood of wind or water ingress. I believe it also lends a more finished look to the interior and exterior while adding to the overall structural stability.
Q: What are the dimensions of the building?
A: The building measures 1759.0mm in depth and 2035.0mm in width, including the overhang. The ridge height stands at 2050.0mm. These dimensions make it compact yet functional, suitable for smaller gardens. It won't dominate your outdoor space, but offers ample room for storage or leisure activities.
Q: What is the size of the door, and is it adequate for easy access?
A: The door measures 870.0mm in height and 450.0mm in width, which is a decent size for garden buildings. I find this size sufficient for general access, although moving in larger equipment might require a bit of planning. The height is adequate for most users, but it may be slightly limiting for taller individuals with bulky items to move in or out.
Q: What should I know about the glazing material used?
A: The glazing in this building is made from Styrene, which is a lightweight plastic alternative to glass. While it is less prone to shattering and very safe, it can scratch more easily. I generally advise customers to be cautious with sharp objects or cleaning materials that might damage the surface. If you prefer a clearer view or need something more robust, consider this potential drawback.
Q: What type of framing is used in this construction?
A: The framing of the building consists of 34 x 34mm timbers. This size provides a good balance between strength and flexibility, ensuring that the structure can withstand various weather conditions. In my opinion, this framing size is a beneficial choice for longevity while keeping the overall weight manageable.
Q: Does this garden building have any design advantages related to height?
A: With a height of 2050.0mm at the ridge point, this garden building offers a spacious feel, making it possible to move around comfortably inside. I find that taller garden buildings can significantly enhance usability, especially if you're using the space for workshops or recreational activities. Plus, it allows for better ventilation and light if windows are added.
