EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 7′ x 7′ 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: OPASUM77DDMHDBUN
Size: 7' x 7'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 7′ x 7′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House
When considering adding a summer house to your garden, it’s essential to assess the various options available in terms of design, durability, and overall value. The 7′ x 7′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House stands out as an attractive choice for those looking to enhance their outdoor living space. With a combination of functional design and decent construction quality, let’s dive deeper into what this summer house offers.
Key Features
This summer house, featuring an apex style roof, provides a classic aesthetic that complements various garden styles. The dimensions also make it versatile enough for small backyards or larger gardens without overwhelming the space. Below are some standout features that we were particularly impressed with:
- Doubly Secure Entrance: The lockable double doors employ a pad bolt locking mechanism for extra security, allowing you to store your belongings with peace of mind.
- Natural Light: With four shatter-resistant acrylic windows, the design ensures ample light while keeping the interior bright and inviting.
- Pressure-Treated Durability: The summer house has received pressure treatment – one of the best processes to combat rot and enhance longevity.
Materials and Construction
The Forest Oakley Summer House is constructed with overlap board cladding, which, according to our analysis, is considered below average in strength among summer house materials. In fact, it ranks as the least sturdy of three identified cladding types for similar-sized summer houses, appearing on only 4% of all models analysed. Its walls also measure just 7mm thick, which is again on the lower end of acceptable standards.
Meanwhile, the roofing employs an OSB (oriented strand board) construction, rated more favourably than the walls. The apex roof style is complemented by quality mineral felt, a top-tier choice noted for its effectiveness in weatherproofing. We appreciate the fact that this roofing style is well-represented among the top 10% of products in this category.
Pricing and Value for Money
Priced between £839 and £844.99 at various retailers, the 7′ x 7′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House offers a relatively competitive entry point into the summer house market. Given its lower Expert Score of 77 out of 100, which is about 6% below the average for similar models, some may wonder about the value versus quality.
However, it’s important to note the cost savings you could enjoy relative to other options. For those looking for more value, the Shire Houghton 7 x 7ft Double Door Apex Dip Treated Summer House with Veranda is available for £840 and garners a superior Expert Score of 95.
Construction Ease
One positive characteristic of the Forest Oakley Summer House is how easy it is to construct; our experts rated it at 4.5 out of 5 for ease of assembly. This feature is ideal for novice builders and those seeking a quick setup enjoy the benefits of this charming garden addition without the stress often associated with assembly.
Window and Door Considerations
This summer house provides a door height of 1,652mm and width of 1,156mm. While the heights exceed the average in its category, the door width is a touch narrower. The installation of shatter-resistant acrylic windows, although common, does provide a sufficient barrier to weather while allowing for natural illumination.
Conclusion
Overall, the 7′ x 7′ Forest Oakley Double Door Apex Summer House delivers a good aesthetic and features that are appropriate for casual use as a garden retreat. While there are some shortcomings in terms of material durability, the investment still results in a charming feature for your garden. We recommend it for individuals looking for a straightforward summer house solution, especially those who prioritize ease of setup over robust construction materials.
If you’re considering this model, it’s advisable to explore your options further and maybe weigh it against some higher-scoring alternatives. You will appreciate the balance of value and design that comes with the Forest Oakley—and if you’re cautious about budget, it still holds merit in the market for summer houses.
Product Details
Q: What is the benefit of using Shatter-Resistant Acrylic for the glazing?
A: Shatter-Resistant Acrylic is an excellent choice for garden buildings as it offers improved safety compared to traditional glass. Its durability means that it won't shatter easily, providing peace of mind, especially if you have children or pets. Additionally, the clarity of acrylic allows for good natural light penetration, making the interior brighter and more inviting.
Q: How important is the thickness of the floor and roof materials?
A: The 14.0mm thickness for the floor and 8.0mm for the roof are significant considerations for stability and insulation. The thicker floor provides a robust base, ensuring the building can safely handle weight without warping or flexing over time. Meanwhile, an 8.0mm roof thickness, combined with a mineral felt covering, enhances durability against the elements, keeping your garden building safe from leaks and structural damage.
Q: Why does the construction type matter?
A: This garden building uses an overlap construction type, which is advantageous for water drainage. The design allows rainwater to run off more effectively, reducing the risk of pooling and subsequent damage. Overlap construction is also often easier to assemble, making it a practical choice for DIY enthusiasts.
Q: What should I know about the door and its locking system?
A: The door measures 1652mm in height and 1156mm in width, which is quite generous and should accommodate most individuals comfortably. However, it’s worth noting that the pad bolt locking system may not provide the same level of security as a more advanced locking system. If security is a primary concern, you may want to consider additional locking mechanisms or reinforcing the door further.
Q: Is the eaves height sufficient for everyday use?
A: With an eaves height of 1554mm, this garden building offers enough space for most individuals to move around freely without feeling cramped. It is particularly beneficial if you plan to use the space for activities like gardening or storage. Just keep in mind that, if you are exceptionally tall, you may need to be mindful when standing close to the walls.
Q: How does the size and dimension of this garden building affect its usability?
A: The overall dimensions of the building, with a height of 2211mm and a width of 2318mm including overhang, provide a spacious environment that can be used for various purposes, whether as a workshop, a small office, or even a relaxing retreat. However, you’ll want to ensure you have enough space in your garden for the footprint of 2129mm in depth; otherwise, the building could feel cramped in a smaller area.
Q: How many people are recommended for assembly, and why?
A: The product suggests two persons for assembly, which is a typical recommendation for structures of this size and complexity. Having an extra pair of hands not only speeds up the assembly process but also helps ensure that components are aligned properly, reducing the risk of errors that could affect the building's durability and aesthetics.
Q: What does it mean for the product to be Certified Sustainable?
A: Being Certified Sustainable indicates that the materials used in the construction of this garden building have been sourced in an environmentally responsible manner. This could mean that the wood is from sustainably managed forests, which is a positive trait for eco-conscious buyers. Additionally, this certification often reflects a commitment to quality and longevity, leading to a product that will stand the test of time.
