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8’x12′ Palram Canopia Rion Hobby Gardener Large Green Greenhouse

First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 39 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1

Product ID: SKU: 702497

Size: 8' x 12'

Merchants Checked: 12

Available From: 3

HomeBase
£2,050.00
See Deal
BuyShedsDirect
£1,679.00
See Deal

Support WhatShed: by making a purchase after clicking a link above, a portion of the sale supports this site.

85
Good Ranked in the Top 6% of Greenhouses.
Position 48 of 836 Greenhouses - Up 48 places from previous update.
Quality of materials
Construction quality
Ease of construction
Value for money

See how our panel of industry experts helped create the impartial judging criteria used to calculate the Expert Score.

In-Depth Review of the 8′ x 12′ Palram Canopia Rion Hobby Gardener Large Greenhouse

Greenhouses play a vital role in the gardening ecosystem, allowing enthusiasts to create optimal growing conditions year-round. Among the plethora of options available, the 8′ x 12′ Palram Canopia Rion Hobby Gardener Greenhouse stands out for its blend of durability, ease of assembly, and overall value. In this review, we’ll explore its essential features, performance, and how it stacks up against the competition, offering both expert insights and practical considerations for potential buyers.

Key Features and Specifications

  • Category: Greenhouse
  • Subcategories: Wooden Greenhouses, Large Greenhouses
  • Roof Type: Apex
  • Treatment: UV Protected
  • Door Type: Double Door
  • Brand: Palram Canopia
  • Measurements: 8′ x 12′
  • Windows: Has Windows
  • Manufacturing Guarantee: 5 Years

Expert Ratings

  • Material Quality: 3.5/5
  • Construction Quality: 4/5
  • Ease of Assembly: 5/5
  • Value for Money: 4.5/5

Detailed Breakdown of Features

Material and Build Quality

Constructed primarily from polycarbonate, the Rion Hobby Gardener boasts substantial durability while remaining lightweight. Polycarbonate roofing is among the best choices in the market, rated highly for both its strength and insulation properties. Despite this, it should be noted that the 6.0mm thickness of the roof is on the thinner side compared to other options available in the market, which may not provide the same level of thermal efficiency.

Windows Configuration

Featuring polycarbonate windows, this greenhouse allows for optimal light diffusion, essential for plant growth without the risk of harsh sunlight that can damage tender plants. Our experts admire the polycarbonate glazing as one of the top choices among window options, being employed in roughly 33% of the top 10% of greenhouses we analysed.

Dimensions and Layout

At a total size of 8′ x 12′ (about 2.44m x 3.66m), this structure strikes a balance between space and manageability. The height at the eaves measures 1250mm, which is somewhat below average, providing 1’ less headroom. This may be a limitation for taller users or particularly large plants.

Accessibility and Design

Equipped with double doors, this greenhouse provides ease of access for both entry and exiting for larger items like wheelbarrows. However, it’s worth noting that the door width measures 4′, a bit narrower than the average, which may restrict access somewhat.

Performance and Value Analysis

The Rion Hobby Gardener’s performance is underscored by its UV protected treatment, allowing gardeners to protect delicate vegetation from excessive sunlight. In terms of overall expert scoring, it swings higher than the average in both quality and value compared to its size category, with an Expert Score of 85.

Market Position and Price Comparison

Currently, the greenhouse lands at a competitive price point, with three primary retailers offering it at:

  • Mano Mano: £1,929
  • HomeBase: £2,050
  • BuyShedsDirect: £1,679

This positions it as a mid-range choice within the 8′ x 12′ category, providing solid value for the level of quality offered. Priced approximately £5 higher than the market average based on our comprehensive analysis of 39 similar models, it holds a compelling spot for those prioritising ease of assembly and quality materials.

Conclusion: Is It Right for You?

In conclusion, if you are an avid gardener seeking a reliable greenhouse that emphasises quality materials, ease of construction, and solid performance, the 8′ x 12′ Palram Canopia Rion Hobby Gardener Greenhouse is a strong contender to consider. While it may have minor limitations in height and door width, its advantages—particularly in durability and UV protection—make it a worthy investment for both novice and seasoned cultivators.

We encourage potential buyers to consider their specific gardening needs and environment when making this important purchase. As always, do not hesitate to examine your options thoroughly, as the right greenhouse can significantly enhance your gardening experience.

Product Details

Building Type
Greenhouses, Large Greenhouses
Metric Size (Meters)
8' x 12'
Roof Style
Apex
Number of Windows
Has Windows
Door Type
Double Door
Treatment Type
UV Protected
Guarantee
5 Years

Q: What is the height of the eaves and how does it affect usability?

A: The eaves height of this garden building is 1250mm, which provides ample headroom for most activities. This height is beneficial when you want to use the building for standing tasks or moving around comfortably. However, if you are particularly tall, it may feel a bit cramped. Overall, this is a standard height that balances functionality with a cozy atmosphere.

Q: How durable are the roof and additional glazing materials?

A: Both the roof and additional glazing of this building are made from polycarbonate, a material known for its durability and resistance to impact. The 6mm thickness provides decent insulation and protects the interior from weather elements, making it suitable for year-round use. One drawback is that polycarbonate can be susceptible to scratching, so if aesthetics are a priority for you, consider how you'll maintain it.

Q: Can you describe the entrance dimensions and how they affect accessibility?

A: The entrance features a door size of 1650mm by 1190mm, which is spacious enough for easy access. This size is particularly convenient for moving larger items like garden tools or furniture in and out of the building, making it a great choice for a workshop or storage space. However, this may not be wide enough for extremely large equipment, so it's wise to measure your largest items before purchasing.

Q: What are the external dimensions of the building and their significance?

A: The building has a depth of 3910mm including overhang, with a width of 2660mm. These dimensions offer a generous amount of space for various uses, be it as a garden shed, a playroom, or an office. Just keep in mind that while it's sufficiently spacious, you will need to ensure you have enough room in your garden to accommodate it without overwhelming the space.

Q: How does the resin frame contribute to the overall structure?

A: The resin frame in a green colour is not just about aesthetics; it also brings weather resistance and low maintenance to the table. Unlike wood, resin won't warp or rot over time, making it a long-lasting choice for garden buildings. However, if you prefer a more traditional look, the resin frame may not align with your design preferences.

Q: Is there any consideration for additional windows?

A: Unfortunately, the specifications do not provide details on additional windows. However, having extra windows generally enhances natural lighting and ventilation within the structure, creating a more pleasant environment. If you find that light and airflow are important for your intended use, you might want to explore options for installing supplementary windows or ensure the existing ones meet your requirements.

Q: What makes polycarbonate a suitable roofing material?

A: Polycarbonate is an exceptionally strong material, making it a wise choice for roofing, especially in a garden building where exposure to elements is constant. It is lightweight, which makes installation easier, yet equally has excellent UV resistance, protecting the contents underneath from sun damage. The downside is that while it offers good insulation, it's not as effective as heavier options like solid timber or metal for extreme temperature control.

Joel Bird

Joel Bird

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Joel, our shed expert, won Channel 4’s Shed of the Year in 2014 and is the author of The Book of Shed. Click ‘Meet the Experts’ to learn more.

Meet the experts

Product ID: SKU: 702497

Size: 8' x 12'

Merchants Checked: 12

Available From: 3

HomeBase
£2,050.00
See Deal
BuyShedsDirect
£1,679.00
See Deal

Support WhatShed: by making a purchase after clicking a link above, a portion of the sale supports this site.