EXPERT REVIEWED 
FREE DELIVERY 
INSTALATION AVAILABLE 7′ x 10′ Shire Kensington Summer House
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 16 Data Points Updated - 2 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: KENS0710DSL-1AABUN
Size: 7' x 10'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 7′ x 10′ Shire Kensington Summer House
For those looking to enhance their outdoor space, the 7′ x 10′ Shire Kensington Summer House is an elegant solution that melds functionality with aesthetic appeal. Falling under the master category of Summer Houses, this model also claims spots in subcategories including Small Summer Houses, Wooden Summer Houses, and Luxury Summer Houses. With an apex roof style and a double door, the design lends itself to a plethora of uses—from a seasonal retreat to a potting shed.
Features Overview
This summer house is constructed using shiplap tongue & groove cladding, which stands out for both durability and aesthetic quality—a feature our experts appreciate among the majority of high-rated summer houses. The wood used is FSC certified, ensuring sustainable timber sourcing. At a commendable 19mm thickness for the walls, the cladding can provide solid insulation and longevity.
Boasting a 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee, you can trust in the longevity of this structure. It measures at a generous 7′ x 10′ (2.13m x 3.4m) and possesses three windows that allow natural light to fill the space, making it an inviting area to relax or work.
Construction Quality and Ease
Our experts rated the quality of materials at 3.5 out of 5 while construction quality received a score of 4 out of 5. Notably, the ease of construction scored a perfect 5 out of 5, which is exceptionally user-friendly for DIY enthusiasts. If you have some basic tools and skills, you can assemble this summer house with relative ease.
Furthermore, the mineral felt roofing—another feature recommended by our experts—ensures that this summer house maintains its integrity against the elements, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor investments irrespective of weather conditions.
Market Position and Value
Performance-wise, the Shire Kensington aligns well with market expectations. It scored an impressive 4.5 out of 5 in terms of value for money. At a price point of approximately £1,129—which is lower than the average for comparable models—you’ll find it to be more than just a pleasant addition to your garden. In a market analysis, we found this product to score 4% higher than average, placing it well against its competitors.
Compared to 141 similar summer houses, this model is £181 less expensive than the average offering. Such affordability, coupled with high scores across various metrics, positions the Shire Kensington as a strong contender in the summer house category.
Potential Drawbacks
It’s important to note that there are areas for improvement. The summer house stands at 1750mm (6′) high, which is 7% less than the average for its size—this may make it less comfortable for taller individuals. Additionally, while the robust door measures 900mm (3′), it is slightly narrower than the average by about 18%, potentially impacting ease of access depending on how you use the space.
Conclusion
In summary, the 7′ x 10′ Shire Kensington Summer House is a stylish yet practical choice for anyone seeking to utilise their outdoor area. With its excellent construction quality, sustainable materials, and a wealth of usable space—it truly shines among its competitors. Whether you envision a cozy retreat, storage for garden tools, or an artistic workspace, this summer house delivers with both quality and style.
As with all outdoor structures, ensure that you consider your specific needs and whether the dimensions fit your space requirements. All things considered, the Shire Kensington is certainly worth your time and investment.
This product review is reflective of the high standards and thorough analysis that What Shed stands for, assisting you in making an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and outdoor aesthetics perfectly.
Product Details
Q: What type of wood is used in this garden building, and how does it impact durability?
A: This garden building is constructed from Pine, which is a popular choice due to its natural resistance to decay and pests when properly treated. From my experience, Pine offers a good balance between affordability and durability, making it suitable for outdoor use. However, it is essential to maintain the wood with regular treatment to enhance its lifespan, especially in UK weather conditions.
Q: How is the roof of the building designed, and what are the benefits of this material?
A: The roof is made from Tongue & Groove materials covered with Mineral Felt. This combination creates a robust and weather-resistant roof system. The Tongue & Groove design ensures a snug fit, which helps prevent leaks, while the Mineral Felt provides an additional layer of protection against moisture. I find that this design not only enhances the durability of the structure but also contributes to a stylish finish.
Q: What is the floor material used, and how does it add to the overall quality of the building?
A: The floor is also constructed from Tongue & Groove, which is excellent for creating a solid, sturdy base. This feature minimizes the chances of water pooling or seeping through, which is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the structure. In my opinion, this flooring option offers both durability and ease of cleaning, making it a practical choice for any garden building.
Q: How does the height of the building affect usability and comfort?
A: With an eaves height of 1750 mm and a ridge height of 2110 mm, this garden building provides ample headroom for most activities. A good ceiling height can significantly enhance comfort and make the space feel larger, which I appreciate when using it as a workshop or studio. However, if you're considering installing shelves or storage overhead, ensure that you account for these dimensions to optimise your space effectively.
Q: What are the dimensions of the doors, and how do they affect access?
A: The doors measure 1710 mm in height and 900 mm in width, which offer a generous entry point for moving items in and out. This is particularly beneficial if you plan to use the space for bulky tools or furniture. However, while the size is ample for most purposes, always consider your specific needs—particularly if you're planning to store larger items that may require wider access.
Q: Is the building environmentally certified, and why is that important?
A: Yes, this garden building comes with an FSC certification, ensuring that the wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests. This certification is crucial as it reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability. As a consumer, I highly value this aspect, knowing that my purchase contributes to ecological conservation and responsible forestry practices.
Q: How is the packaged weight of the product relevant to installation?
A: With a packaged weight of 368.5 kg, this garden building is certainly robust. While the weight indicates a solid construction, it also means you might need additional help or tools during installation. Realistically, if you're considering this product, ensure you have the right equipment and support to manage the weight effectively, as it can influence how smoothly the assembly process goes.
