EXPERT REVIEWED 
FREE DELIVERY 
INSTALATION AVAILABLE 6 x 6 Wooden Playhouse
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 13 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
In-Depth Review of the 6 x 6 Wooden Playhouse
In our comprehensive analysis of outdoor play structures, we’ve taken a close look at the 6 x 6 Wooden Playhouse manufactured by Oakham Playhouses. This review covers essential aspects such as materials, construction quality, and overall value, allowing you to decide whether this playhouse is a suitable investment for your children’s playtime needs.
Key Specifications
- Overall Size: 5′ x 3′
- Cladding Material: Tongue & Groove
- Window Glazing: Styrene (with 2 windows)
- Roof Material: OSB
- Floor Material: Tongue & Groove
- Weight: Not specified
- Height: 1160mm (4′)
- Treatment: Untreated
Design and Construction
The first thing to note is the use of tongue & groove cladding, which is praised in the market for its durability and high performance. This type of cladding is employed in about 35% of similar playhouses we analysed, and notably, 47% of the top-rated products also utilise this material. Its strength is reflected in the expert score of 3 out of 5 for quality of materials, which tells you this playhouse is built to last, but could benefit from further enhancement in treatment to boost longevity.
Two styrene windows come standard with the playhouse, which is great for safety and natural light. It’s worth noting that this glazing type is used in 94% of the top 10% of playhouses, marking it as a popular choice. However, despite its strong safety rating, the playhouse scores a 2.5 for value for money, which raises concerns about its pricing relative to comparable products in the market.
Performance Metrics
Breaking down the construction quality further, the playhouse obtains a 3.5 in our quality assessment. You´ll find that the overall construction ease scores impressively at 4.5. This suggests that, although you may be paying a premium compared to similar playhouses, assembly isn’t an ordeal, lending itself to DIY enthusiasts.
When it comes to the roof, we have the OSB material, which, while being a well-utilised choice (seen in 20% of similar structures), has resulted in a score of 11 points below the average for this size. Nonetheless, it remains a typical material found in good quality playhouses, making the overall roofing design satisfactory, albeit less than ideal for harsher climates where sturdier materials may be preferable.
Market Positioning
In our extensive review, the 6 x 6 Wooden Playhouse was ranked in the top 92.55% of playhouses in the market, sitting comfortably at position 174 out of 188 products analysed. However, it is crucial to mention that it is priced at £1,778.40 from Mano Mano, making it £124 above the average cost within its category. This could paint it as a less competitive option to budget-conscious buyers.
For a comparative perspective, we found alternatives that present better value propositions. For instance, the 4′ x 4′ Shire Playhut offers similar specifications at a significantly lower price. Not only is it rated at an expert score of 82, that is 15 points above this playhouse, it also costs £260, saving you a potential £1,518.
Considerations for Purchase
If you’re contemplating purchasing the 6 x 6 Wooden Playhouse, consider the following:
- Space Requirements: With a height of just 1160mm, it’s lower than most other playhouses of similar dimensions. Consider if this will affect your child’s play experience.
- Weather Resistance: Given that the cladding is untreated, you may want to plan for additional protective measures or treatments to increase its resistance to the elements.
- Security Features: This playhouse includes windows that help visibility, but if your backyard is public-facing, consider security features associated with other brands.
Final Verdict
While the 6 x 6 Wooden Playhouse by Oakham Playhouses does boast several admirable qualities, including strong cladding material and ease of assembly, the high price point, coupled with its average performance scores, leave us wanting more. There are comparable options on the market that provide better value for money without compromising on quality.
In conclusion, if you are determined to invest in this particular model for its aesthetic or particular features, it’s worth ensuring you have a strategy in mind for care and maintenance to foster its longevity. Otherwise, we recommend exploring other alternatives that may suit your needs just as well, if not better.
Product Details
Q: What are the advantages of the tongue and groove floor material?
A: The tongue and groove floor material provides a solid and durable surface for your garden building. With a thickness of 12mm, it offers good load-bearing capacity, making it suitable for various uses, from a simple storage space to a more elaborate garden office. The interlocking design also helps prevent moisture ingress, reducing the risk of warping over time. Personally, I always recommend this type of flooring for its strength and resilience.
Q: How does the eaves height impact the overall usability of the building?
A: The eaves height of 1.16m (3'10") is a crucial specification to consider, especially for taller individuals. While it may be adequate for general storage or light use, I find this height somewhat limiting for activities that require more headroom, such as working in the space or moving larger items. If you're planning to spend a lot of time inside, consider this aspect carefully.
Q: What is the benefit of using OSB for the roof material?
A: OSB, or oriented strand board, is an excellent roofing material for garden buildings. At 11mm thick, it offers a robust structure that can withstand various weather conditions. One advantage of OSB is its cost-effectiveness, often making it a more affordable choice compared to traditional timber roofing. However, it's essential to ensure proper sealing and maintenance to maximise its durability. From my perspective, OSB strikes a good balance between affordability and performance.
Q: Is the use of styrene for glazing a good choice?
A: Styrene glazing is often chosen for its lightweight and shatter-resistant properties. While it might not provide the same clarity or insulation as glass, it is a safer alternative for garden buildings, especially in family settings. The trade-off is a slight reduction in thermal performance, which could impact comfort during colder months. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that prioritises safety, this is a decent choice, though I would recommend considering additional insulation if you plan to use the building year-round.
Q: How does the FSC certification enhance the value of this product?
A: The FSC certification indicates that the materials used are sourced from responsibly managed forests, ensuring environmental sustainability. This is particularly important in today's eco-conscious market, as it signifies a commitment to reducing deforestation and promoting biodiversity. As someone who values sustainability, I appreciate products that carry this certification, as they align with a responsible approach to gardening and outdoor living.
Q: What should I consider regarding the door width of 650mm?
A: The door width of 650mm (25 inches) is somewhat narrow, which may be a drawback if you regularly plan to move larger items in and out of the building. While it’s sufficient for typical garden tools and furniture, if you anticipate needing to store larger equipment, you might find this restriction frustrating. In my opinion, if ease of access is a priority for your intended use, you may want to explore models with wider door options.
