EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 7′ x 8′ Shire Crib Kids Wooden Playhouse
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 55 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: CRIB0708DSL-1AABUN
Size: 7' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
7′ x 8′ Shire Crib Kids Wooden Playhouse Review
The 7′ x 8′ Shire Crib Kids Wooden Playhouse is a charming addition to any garden, offering a delightful play space for children. With its unique apex roof style and practical features, it stands out among its competitors in the Playhouses category. This review will delve into the specifics of this playhouse, discussing its construction quality, durability, design features, and value for money, supported by market analysis data.
Key Specifications
- Brand: Shire
- Dimensions: 239 x 209 x 248 cm
- Weight: 225 kg
- Construction Material: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Roof Type: Mineral Felt covered Tongue & Groove
- Door Type: Lockable Single Door with Roller Catch
- Number of Windows: 3 (styrene glazing)
- Treatment: Dip Treated
- Guarantee: 1 year
Build Quality and Materials
We evaluated the quality of materials used in the 7′ x 8′ Shire Crib Kids Wooden Playhouse and rated it a solid 3 out of 5. While the shiplap tongue & groove is renowned for its robustness and great insulation properties, which you can find on 59% of all analysed playhouses, some may find the overall materials a touch less premium compared to higher-end models. The construction quality, rated 3.5 out of 5, indicates reasonable craftsmanship, although there’s room for improvement to enhance longevity.
The roofing features 12 mm thick Tongue & Groove wood, providing sound protection against the elements. This material is the best form identified for playhouses of this size, while the roofing type—a combination of mineral felt and Tongue & Groove—ensures durability and prevents leaks.
Design and Functional Features
Space and usability are where the 7′ x 8′ Shire playhouse truly shines. The height of 1391 mm (5 feet) may fall below the average for similar playhouses, but the practical design allows ample room for younger children to play safely. The single door, at 1325 mm (4 feet) tall and 590 mm (2 feet) wide, offers easy access while providing a reassuringly sturdy entrance.
One of the features we appreciate is the installation of styrene glazing on the windows, which offers enhanced safety, as it’s less likely to shatter compared to glass. The three windows allow natural light to fill the space, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Over 94% of top playhouses use similar glazing—an indication that Shire has made a wise selection here.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The Shire Crib Kids Wooden Playhouse is priced competitively, with retailers like ShedStore and BuyShedsDirect offering it for approximately £949.99. This pricing places it £34 below the average market rate, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Furthermore, its value for money rating of 4 out of 5 reflects this competitive pricing in relation to quality.
In terms of market standing, the playhouse holds the 67th position out of 188 products in the playhouse category, indicating a growing reputation amidst stiff competition.
Performance and Customer Satisfaction
With an ease of construction rated at an impressive 4.5 out of 5, you’ll find the assembly process straightforward. This is particularly appealing for those who choose to self-assemble. However, it’s crucial to prepare a suitable foundation, as the manufacturer notes that grass or soil are inadequate bases for stability.
Despite its minor shortcomings in height and material quality, this playhouse remains a popular choice among families. The initial 1-year guarantee suggests a good level of confidence from Shire regarding the playhouse’s durability, but potential buyers might want to consider additional treatments or maintenance for long-term use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 7′ x 8′ Shire Crib Kids Wooden Playhouse presents a blend of quality design, functional features, and competitive pricing, making it a sound investment for families looking to enhance their outdoor space with a safe environment for play. While it may not top the charts in every category, its solid build, ease of assembly, and attractive price make it a commendable option for parents seeking a charming playhouse for their children.
For those considering alternatives, you might explore options like the 6×6 Mercia Honeysuckle Tower or the Mercia 8 x 7ft Pent Style Timber Playhouse with Tower, both offering higher expert scores and comparable prices.
Product Details
Q: What are the overall dimensions of the building?
A: The building measures 239 cm in length, 209 cm in width, and has a ridge height of 248 cm. These dimensions make it a compact option for smaller gardens without sacrificing utility. However, be sure to assess your garden space to ensure it fits well.
Q: Is a base included with the building?
A: No, a base is not included. Before assembling the building, you will need to provide a flat and level base of adequate size. This means that grass, soil, or gravel won't suffice since these can shift under the weight of the building. This requirement might be a drawback for some buyers, as it entails an additional setup effort and potentially extra costs.
Q: What is the assembly process like?
A: The assembly is classified as 'Self Assembly Required.' While this may provide a sense of accomplishment, it's crucial to note that it can be time-consuming, especially if you're not particularly handy. Make sure you have the necessary tools and a bit of patience when taking this on!
Q: What materials are used for the floor and roof?
A: The floor is made from 12 mm thick Tongue & Groove boards, which adds durability and stability. Similarly, the roof also uses a 12 mm Tongue & Groove material, enhancing its sturdiness. This choice of materials is beneficial for longevity but requires proper installation to maximise its performance against the elements.
Q: How effective is the locking system?
A: The building features a Roller Catch locking system. While this is adequate for securing the door, it may not provide the highest level of security compared to more robust locking systems. If theft or vandalism is a concern for you, this might be a downside to consider.
Q: What delivery options are available?
A: After placing your order, you'll receive a link to choose a delivery day, along with additional base information. On the morning of delivery, you will also get live tracking updates. This proactive communication is a significant benefit, as it helps you plan your day accordingly.
Q: Are there any industry standards certifications?
A: Yes, the building has received industry standards certification. This is an important factor as it ensures that the product meets specific safety and quality criteria, giving you peace of mind about your purchase.
Q: What is the door size?
A: The door measures 1325 mm high and 590 mm wide, which provides sufficient access for most items. However, if you plan to store larger equipment, you might find the door width slightly restrictive, so plan accordingly.
Q: How heavy is the building?
A: The packaged weight of the building is 225 kg. This substantial weight suggests good material quality, but it also indicates that you may need assistance during the delivery and assembly process. This could be a consideration if you have physical limitations or are lacking extra manpower.
