EXPERT REVIEWED 
FREE DELIVERY 
INSTALATION AVAILABLE 7′ x 13′ Shire Westminster Summer House
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 56 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: WEST1307DSL-1AABUN
Size: 13' x 7'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 7′ x 13′ Shire Westminster Summer House
If you’re seeking an elegant and functional space to enjoy your garden, the 7′ x 13′ Shire Westminster Summer House could be the perfect solution. This charming structure is designed not just to enhance your outdoor area but also to provide a versatile space suitable for various uses, whether it be for gardening, as a hobby room, or a relaxing retreat.
Design and Features
The Shire Westminster features a classic apex roof design, which not only provides an attractive silhouette but also promotes better water drainage, reducing the risk of leaks and structural damage. The summer house comes with double doors, which provide easy access and allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With five windows strategically positioned around the structure, you can enjoy ample sunlight while enjoying the views of your garden.
Quality of Materials
Constructed using shiplap tongue and groove cladding, this summer house ranks highly among its peers. This type of cladding is popular in over 49% of top-rated summer houses, noted for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, the cladding is untreated, which could impact long-term durability if exposed to the elements. We recommend applying a protective wood treatment shortly after installation to extend the life of your summer house.
Measurements
With its dimensions of 13′ x 7′, this summer house provides a spacious interior without overwhelming your garden space. However, at a height of 2109mm (approximately 7 feet), it offers slightly less headroom than comparable models, which could be a consideration for taller individuals. The door height at 1710mm (over 6 feet) is quite reasonable and provides ample entry space, though the door width at 910mm is narrower than average.
Construction and Assembly
The Shire Westminster Summer House scores impressively in the construction category, earning a score of 4 out of 5. It benefits from superior build quality, as evidenced by its tongue and groove roof and floor material, which is a preferred choice among 86% of high-quality summer houses. Assembly is rated even higher, at 4.5 out of 5, indicating that most users find the setup straightforward, with clear instructions aiding the process.
Market Position
Current market analysis highlights that this summer house is competitively priced, starting from approximately £1,329 across several retailers, including Sheds.co.uk and ShedStore. Compared to similar products, it stands at a remarkably lower price point, being about £207 cheaper than the average for similar-sized summer houses. This positions the Shire Westminster as an attractive option for customers seeking value without sacrificing quality.
Expert Evaluation and Ratings
The quality of materials has received a score of 3.5 out of 5, indicating room for improvement, particularly in ensuring the treatment of the wood used affects its longevity. Construction quality is commendable at 4, and ease of construction stands out with a score of 4.5, highlighting how user-friendly the assembly is. Evaluating value for money, we assign a score of 4.5, supporting our belief that this summer house offers great bang for your buck.
Additional Considerations
While the Shire Westminster has many strengths, it may not be the best option in particularly coastal or high-wind areas, where a more robust design may be required. Additionally, for those needing extra security, opting for a garden structure that features reinforced windows or lockable options may be preferable.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the 7′ x 13′ Shire Westminster Summer House is a solid choice if you’re in the market for a summer house that balances aesthetics, functionality, and price. While it lacks some advanced protective treatments, its design suits many gardening and leisure activities. Whether you envision sipping tea while enjoying the garden view or setting up a creative workspace, this summer house provides a wonderful space to make your dream a reality.
In conclusion, if you appreciate good craftsmanship combined with modern, appealing features, we believe you’ll be happy with your purchase of the Shire Westminster Summer House. Don’t forget to consider your specific needs and environment to ensure it matches your lifestyle perfectly.
You can explore more options in the Summer Houses category or delve into the specific details of other materials within the Wooden Summer Houses sub-category.
Product Details
Q: What type of wood is used in the construction of this garden building?
A: This product is constructed from high-quality Pine wood, which is known for its durability and natural beauty. Being a softwood, Pine is also relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle during installation. However, it's worth noting that while Pine is resistant to some environmental factors, it may require regular treatment to prevent weathering over time.
Q: How thick are the floor and roof materials?
A: Both the floor and roof are made with 12mm thick Tongue & Groove boards. This design not only offers sturdy construction but also helps in providing a seamless finish, reducing the risk of water ingress. It’s a solid choice for a garden building, although thicker materials could offer even greater protection against severe weather.
Q: What kind of environmental certifications does this product have?
A: The garden building is FSC certified, which means that the wood used comes from responsibly managed forests. This certification not only ensures that your purchase is environmentally friendly but also supports sustainable forestry practices. As someone who values green solutions, I appreciate products that contribute positively to our planet.
Q: How tall is the building, and what are the eaves heights?
A: The overall height of the garden building is 2109mm, with eaves height at 1756mm. This height is advantageous as it provides sufficient headroom, making it comfortable to move around inside. The ample eaves height also helps to create a more spacious feel, which is a definite plus for anyone looking to use the space for hobbies or storage.
Q: Are the windows of this building functional?
A: Yes, this garden building features two opening windows. This is not just a design choice; it contributes to ventilation and natural light entry, which are essential for a pleasant and functional space. However, it is worth considering that the glazing is single-glazed, which may not provide the best insulation compared to double-glazing. This aspect may be a drawback in colder months, but it typically simplifies the installation process and can keep costs down.
Q: How many people are recommended for assembly?
A: It is recommended that two persons assemble the building. This collaborative effort can ensure that the installation is smooth and that the structure is set up correctly. Assembling alone can be a challenge and may lead to mistakes or delays, so I find this recommendation to be very practical.
Q: How heavy is the packaged building?
A: The packaged weight of the building is 461kg, which indicates solid materials and construction. While this weight showcases the quality of the product, it does mean that careful consideration is needed regarding the delivery and site preparation. Ensuring proper ground and access can save you a significant amount of hassle during assembly.
Q: What is the overall footprint of the garden building?
A: The dimensions are quite accommodating, with a depth including the overhang of 4296mm and a width of 2175mm. This size makes it suitable for various gardening tools, furniture, or even a dedicated hobby space. However, it's essential to verify that you have enough space in your garden for these dimensions, including any allowance for maintenance or landscaping around the building.
