EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 8′ x 6′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 27 Data Points Updated - 2 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: OPPSUM86DDMHDBUN
Size: 8' x 6'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the 8′ x 6′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House
If you’re considering adding a summer house to your garden space, you’ve likely come across the 8′ x 6′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House. With its appealing design and functionality, this particular model is designed to cater to a variety of uses—be it a tranquil retreat, a creative workspace, or an entertaining space for friends and family.
Design and Structure
At first glance, the Forest Oakley summer house captivates with its pent-style roof, offering a sleek appearance that complements any garden aesthetic. The overall dimensions of 8′ x 6′ provide ample space without overwhelming smaller gardens. The inclusion of double doors not only enhances accessibility but also allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a welcoming environment.
It features a total of four windows fitted with shatter-resistant acrylic glazing, ensuring that this summer house stands up to curious children or unexpected weather changes. As we examine the construction materials, we note that the overlap board cladding is used, which, although less robust compared to more premium options, is still relatively common in budget-friendly summer houses.
Materials and Construction Quality
While the brand Forest Garden holds a respectable position in the market with a 15-year guarantee, the quality scores from our experts paint a mixed picture. The summer house has garnered ratings of 3 for material quality, 3.5 for construction quality, and a commendable 4.5 for ease of construction—indicating that although it’s not the apex of craftsmanship, it’s certainly user-friendly when it comes to assembly.
The pressure-treated treatment is a noteworthy feature. This process protects against rot and decay, ensuring that your investment remains viable for many years. The floor, made from 14mm thick boards, is labelled as one of the best available in this category, adding a degree of sturdiness that is often lacking in lower-cost alternatives.
Roofing and Insulation
The roofing construction uses OSB sheathing covered with a mineral felt layer. Our expert analysis ranks OSB highly among roof materials, making it a strong choice for providing adequate support and insulation. The 8mm thickness of the roof boarding, however, is rated as the worst thickness among its peers, raising some concerns regarding long-term durability and performance in inclement weather.
Despite this, the mineral felt roofing appears frequently on many successful summer houses, promising reliable weather resistance and minimal maintenance in return.
Market Comparison
In a landscape where over 1,180 summer houses were analysed, the Forest Oakley places itself at 505, showing a downward movement of 208 places. The product boasts a competitive price point of around £869, which is notably lower than the average for comparable models within the same specifications. This indicates that while it’s not the highest-quality option available, you’re certainly getting respectable value for your money.
Pros and Cons
Here are some key benefits and drawbacks to consider before making your purchase:
- Pros:
- Ample space and aesthetic design suitable for various uses.
- Pressure-treated for increased durability against weather conditions.
- Double doors and multiple windows enhance natural light and ease of access.
- Competitive price for garden structures of similar size.
- Cons:
- Overlap board cladding, while economical, is less robust than other cladding types.
- 8mm roof boarding is on the thinner side, which may impact long-term durability.
- The slightly lower height compared to the average 8′ x 6′ summer house may be a concern for taller users.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the 8′ x 6′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House represents a solid option for those looking to add a functional outdoor space without breaking the bank. While it may not appeal to those seeking the highest-quality materials or designs, it certainly delivers on ease of construction and versatility. If you’re in the market for a practical and budget-friendly summer house, you may find this model worth considering.
As an alternative, you might explore other summer houses within the Summer Houses category that offer different construction materials or higher performance ratings to better suit your needs.
Product Details
Q: What materials are used for the roof of the product?
A: The roof is constructed from OSB (Oriented Strand Board) and features an 8.0mm thickness which adds to its durability. Additionally, the roof is covered with mineral felt, providing essential protection against the elements. This combination ensures that the structure remains weather-resistant, although it's worth noting that OSB can be susceptible to moisture over time if not adequately treated or maintained.
Q: How secure is the door system of this garden building?
A: The garden building is equipped with a pad bolt locking system, which helps secure the door in place. While a pad bolt is a straightforward locking mechanism, it may not provide the highest level of security compared to more advanced locking systems. If security is a primary concern, especially in an area with high foot traffic or risk of theft, I would recommend considering additional security measures or consulting with a specialist.
Q: Is the floor durable and sturdy enough for regular use?
A: The floor features a thickness of 14.0mm OSB, which offers a solid foundation. It's crucial for ensuring the longevity of the building, particularly if you plan to use it as a workshop or storage space. However, as this material is wood-based, regular maintenance is essential to prevent decay, especially in humid conditions. Ensure you check the floor regularly for signs of wear and treat it appropriately.
Q: What are the dimensions of the door, and how easy is it to access the building?
A: The door measures 1652.0mm in height and 1156.0mm in width, providing ample space for entry and exit. This size is practical, making it suitable for moving equipment in and out without feeling cramped. However, if you have larger items to store, you may want to ensure they fit comfortably through the door, as height can be a limiting factor for particularly tall equipment.
Q: Does the garden building allow for any natural light to enter?
A: Unfortunately, this particular model does not come with any opening windows. While the absence of windows may reduce the amount of natural light entering the space, it also enhances privacy and security. If working within the building for extended periods, you might want to consider alternative lighting options, as the reliance solely on artificial light can be less than ideal for visibility and mood.
Q: Who is recommended to assemble this garden building, and how complex is the process?
A: The assembly of the garden building is recommended for two persons, suggesting that teamwork will make the process easier and more efficient. The construction type is labelled as 'overlap', which might imply a straightforward assembly process, yet it's always wise to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. I suggest setting aside enough time to ensure everything is put together correctly to avoid issues later on.
Q: What is the height of the building, and does it allow for enough space inside?
A: With a total height of 2149mm, this garden building provides adequate headroom for general use, making it comfortable for most people. The eaves height of 1708mm is particularly useful, allowing you to make the most of the vertical space, which is essential for storage or workspace use. It's an excellent option if you're looking to maximise space without the need for a more substantial structure.
Q: Are there any environmental credentials for this product?
A: Yes, this garden building proudly boasts a 'Made in the UK' and 'Certified Sustainable' accreditation. These credentials indicate that the product adheres to environmentally-friendly manufacturing practices, which is a significant plus for eco-conscious buyers. It's reassuring to know that your purchase supports local craftsmanship and sustainable resources.
