EXPERT REVIEWED 
FREE DELIVERY 
INSTALATION AVAILABLE 8′ x 9′ Shire Lodge Kids Wooden Playhouse
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 23 Data Points Updated - 2 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: LODG0809DSL-1AABUN
Size: 8' x 9'
Merchants Checked: 12
Expert Review of the 8′ x 9′ Shire Lodge Kids Wooden Playhouse
When considering a playhouse for your little ones, functionality, durability, and aesthetics are paramount. The 8′ x 9′ Shire Lodge Kids Wooden Playhouse scores considerably well across these pillars, offering a detachable abode that is both practical and fun. In our comprehensive expert assessment, we delve into the design, materials, construction quality, and overall market position of this product.
Key Features and Specifications
- Dimensions: 268 x 257 x 302 cm (8′ x 9′)
- Roof Style: Apex roof with mineral felt covering
- Cladding Material: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Window Configuration: 5 styrene windows
- Door Type: Single door with roller catch locking system
- Treatment: Dip treated for added durability
- Guarantee: 1 year
Design and Aesthetics
The playhouse features a charming apex roof, a design that is not just visually pleasing but also practical, allowing for quick water runoff during rainfall. The Shiplap Tongue & Groove cladding gives it a robust texture, reminiscent of traditional wooden structures. With its high-quality wooden finish, it seamlessly blends into garden landscapes, making it an attractive addition to any outdoor setting. We particularly appreciate the incorporation of five styrene windows, which allow natural light to flood in while maintaining safety with their shatter-resistant properties.
Material Quality
Quality materials can significantly influence the longevity and safety of outdoor play products. The Shire Lodge’s use of shiplap tongue & groove cladding enhances structural integrity; indeed, this method is favoured by 47% of the top performers in the market. However, our experts rated the overall material quality at 3 out of 5, suggesting there’s room for enhancement perhaps in the type of wood or treatment processes, despite the effective dip treatment that offers reasonable protection against the elements.
Construction Insights
One aspect of the Shire Lodge playhouse we found commendable is its ease of assembly, scoring a 4 out of 5. This factor can be critical for busy parents looking to set up the playhouse swiftly, allowing children to enjoy their outdoor space sooner. The package does not include a base, so ensuring a sturdy and flat ground prior to assembly is crucial—grass or soil, while convenient, is inadequate.
Functionality and Safety
Security is a top priority when it comes to children’s products, and the playhouse does not disappoint. The single door features a roller catch locking system, contributing to the safety design. The playhouse maintains a height of 1848 mm (6′), which is comfortably adequate for young children without posing a risk of them bumping their heads. We noted that the door dimensions (1236 mm height and 505 mm width) are also averaged among 8′ x 9′ playhouses, ensuring comfortable entry and exit for little ones.
Market Comparison
Positioned as a mid-range product, the pricing of the Shire Lodge Playhouse is competitive when compared to similar models. It was assessed at approximately £1,680 at Wickes and £1,699 at both ShedStore and BuyShedsDirect. Considering it offers an expert score of 67, which is slightly above the market average for comparable playhouses, this makes it a viable choice if you’re seeking quality within a reasonable budget.
Final Verdict
To sum up our findings, the 8′ x 9′ Shire Lodge Kids Wooden Playhouse is a solid investment for those looking to enrich their children’s outdoor playtime. Its clever design offers both aesthetic appeal and functional strengths, although material quality and construction intricacies could be enhanced further. The pricing is reasonable within its segment, and it undoubtedly holds its ground among peers in the playhouse category. Whether you are looking for a playful retreat or a decorative element in your garden, this playhouse delivers a satisfactory balance of both.
If you are leaning towards creating a fun, safe, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment for your children, we say go for the Shire Lodge Kids Wooden Playhouse. It promises years of enjoyment, giving you peace of mind knowing your children have a dedicated space for their adventures.
Product Details
Q: What are the external dimensions of the garden building?
A: The external dimensions of the building are 268 cm in depth, 257 cm in width, and 302 cm in height. These measurements are crucial to ensure it fits well in your garden space, so it's advisable to measure your area before purchasing. As an expert, I can tell you that having precise dimensions helps avoid any unpleasant surprises during installation.
Q: Does the product comply with industry standards?
A: Yes, this garden building boasts industry standards certification. This certification is essential as it signifies that the building meets specific safety and quality benchmarks, ensuring durability and reliability. From my perspective, investing in a certified product provides peace of mind, knowing that it adheres to recognised guidelines.
Q: Is a base included with the building?
A: Unfortunately, a base is not included with this garden building. It's essential to prepare a flat, level base before assembly, whether it be concrete or paving stones. I advise against using grass, soil, or gravel, as they can shift under the weight of the building. This requirement might seem inconvenient, but a proper base is significantly beneficial in enhancing the longevity and stability of your structure.
Q: What type of assembly is required for this building?
A: The building requires self-assembly. While this may sound daunting, I find that many DIY enthusiasts enjoy the process and take pride in constructing their own buildings. The provided instructions are typically straightforward, and with a bit of patience, you'll likely find the assembly process quite satisfying.
Q: What materials are used for the flooring and roof?
A: The flooring is made of 12 mm tongue and groove boards, while the roof also consists of 12 mm tongue and groove material. This construction provides a solid and stable surface, enhancing durability. From an expert standpoint, tongue and groove designs are excellent as they offer better stability and resistance against warping over time, which is invaluable for maintaining the building's integrity.
Q: What kind of locking system is used?
A: The garden building features a roller catch locking system. While this type of lock is generally easy to use and provides basic security, it may not offer the same level of protection as more robust locking mechanisms. Personally, I recommend considering a supplementary security measure if you're storing valuable items inside, as a well-secured building enhances peace of mind.
Q: How is the building delivered?
A: After placing your order, you will receive a link to select a delivery day, along with information regarding the base requirements. On the delivery morning, live tracking information will be provided, ensuring that you're well-informed about your building's arrival time. This transparency adds convenience to the purchasing experience, allowing you to plan accordingly.
Q: What is the eaves height and ridge height of the building?
A: The eaves height is 1848 mm, and the ridge height is 2709 mm. These heights are advantageous as they provide ample headroom, making the internal space feel more open and usable. I often find that adequate vertical space can significantly enhance the functionality of a garden building, especially if you plan to use it for activities requiring movement or storage.
Q: Are the imperial dimensions provided accurate?
A: Yes, the imperial dimensions are approximate to the nearest foot, but it is highly recommended to refer to the exact metric dimensions provided. This attention to detail will help ensure your measurements align perfectly with the available space in your garden. As an expert, I always advocate for double-checking dimensions to prevent miscalculations during planning.
