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INSTALATION AVAILABLE 8x8w Lodge Three Storey Shiplap Timber Playhouse with Georgian Style Safety Windows Children’s Playhouse
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 59 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
In-Depth Review: 8x8w Lodge Three Storey Shiplap Timber Playhouse with Georgian Style Safety Windows
If you’re contemplating adding a captivating playhouse to your garden space, the 8x8w Lodge Three Storey Shiplap Timber Playhouse from Broadfield Garden Buildings might just be what you’re looking for. This model boasts not only an enticing aesthetic appearance but also functionality that ensures your children can play safely and joyfully.
Design and Construction Quality
Upon examining the structure, it’s clear that the playhouse is crafted from European softwood, enhanced with a shiplap design, which is not only visually appealing but also effectively protects against harsh weather conditions. The cladding is made using Tongue & Groove technology, which offers robust interlocking joints, ensuring superior strength and durability.
Our experts rated the overall quality of materials at 3.5 out of 5, consistent with our standards for playhouses in this price range.
Safety Features
What stands out significantly in the Lodge Playhouse is the attention to safety. Equipped with Georgian-style safety windows and a lockable single door that employs a magnetic safety catch locking system, it provides peace of mind for parents. In total, there are three windows that not only let in ample natural light but also allow for good ventilation.
Dimensions and Space
This playhouse spans a size of 7′ x 7′, making it spacious enough for multiple children to play simultaneously without feeling cramped. The internal space provides a generous internal height of 1703mm (6′), which is higher than average for playhouses of this size, allowing kids to move around freely without bumping their heads.
Roofing and Insulation
In terms of roofing, the playhouse is supported by a 12mm tongue and groove roof, covered by mineral felt—a reliable roofing material known for its waterproof qualities. Our analysis indicates that this roofing type is prevalent in 88% of the top-rated playhouses, showcasing its dependability.
Flooring that Lasts
Durability extends beneath your feet too. The tongue & groove flooring is about 12mm thick, making it one of the superior options we’ve identified in the market. Our experts rated this feature highly, affirming that the flooring not only withstands daily wear but can also endure kids’ rambunctious play styles.
Ease of Construction
For those who appreciate engaging in DIY projects, the construction of this playhouse is straightforward—rated at an impressive 4.5 out of 5 for ease of construction. With clear instructions and appropriately cut pieces, you’ll find assembling your child’s dream playhouse a rewarding experience.
Value for Money
When we looked at the value for money aspect, the playhouse scores a modest 3 out of 5. While it’s essential to note that some alternatives provide better value or higher expert scores, the quality and safety features of the Lodge Playhouse justify its price. Available for around £1650.59, the investment may be well worth it for ensuring safety and durability for your children’s play environment.
A Word from Our Experts
In our comprehensive analysis of playhouses, we noted that this model ranks in the top 20% of products within the playhouse category—a commendable position given the myriad options available. Similar products evaluated against this playhouse exhibit lower scores, particularly in safety features and construction quality.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the 8x8w Lodge Three Storey Shiplap Timber Playhouse offers a delightful mix of charm, safety, and solid construction. While it is not the cheapest on the market, the product’s durability, ease of assembly, and child-friendly design make it a worthy contender. If you’re deliberating on a garden addition that will provide hours of joy for your little ones while ensuring their safety, consider giving this playhouse a closer look—from its enchanting Georgian windows to the sturdy structure that promises fun times ahead.
Ultimately, we conclude that this playhouse can elevate your garden into an enchanting playground, providing not just a physical structure, but also a space for creativity and years of cherished memories.
Product Details
Q: What is the benefit of the Magnetic Safety Catch on the doors?
A: The Magnetic Safety Catch is a notable feature that enhances security and ease of use. It ensures that the doors latch securely without requiring heavy lifting or complex mechanisms. From my experience, this makes it particularly beneficial for families with children, as it reduces the risk of accidental openings while allowing for easy access when needed.
Q: Why is Tongue & Groove flooring considered superior?
A: Tongue & Groove flooring offers excellent stability and durability, which is essential for garden buildings that will experience varied weather conditions. This construction method prevents gaps between planks, reducing the likelihood of moisture penetration and enhancing overall insulation. In my opinion, this feature elevates the longevity of the structure significantly compared to standard flooring options.
Q: What advantages does Styrene glazing provide?
A: Styrene glazing is a lightweight, shatter-resistant option that brings safety and insulation benefits. While some might prefer glass for its aesthetic, Styrene offers good visibility without the risk of breakage and is less prone to shattering, making it ideal for garden buildings used by children. The 2mm thickness does contribute to decent insulation, but if you're in a particularly cold climate, you may want to consider additional measures.
Q: Is Mineral Felt roofing durable enough for the UK weather?
A: Mineral Felt is a common and practical choice for roofing in the UK, as it provides a robust layer of protection against rain and snow. While it's not the longest-lasting option on the market, with proper maintenance, it can serve well for many years. In my experience, regular checks and maintenance can help extend its life, making it a reasonable trade-off for cost and performance.
Q: How does the eaves and ridge height affect the interior space?
A: The eaves height of 1703mm and a ridge height of 2906mm offer a comfortable amount of headroom, which is particularly useful if you plan to use the building for activities like storage or a workshop. With an internal eaves height of 1647mm, it means you have ample space to move around without feeling cramped, which is a significant plus for functionality.
Q: Can you explain the significance of the Georgian window style?
A: The Georgian window style adds a classic charm to the garden building, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. This style is typically characterised by a grid pattern of small panes, which can complement a variety of garden spaces beautifully. Personally, I find that this feature helps blend the building into a traditional garden setting while providing adequate light inside. It strikes a balance between style and functionality.
Q: Why is Shiplap cladding a preferred choice for garden buildings?
A: Shiplap cladding is popular due to its design that allows for rainwater runoff, effectively protecting the structure from moisture damage. This helps in maintaining the integrity of your garden building over time. Additionally, the aesthetic of Shiplap offers a rustic look that many homeowners appreciate. In my opinion, the combination of durability and visual appeal makes it a winning choice for outdoor buildings.
Q: What does the Water Based Dip Treatment do for the building?
A: The Water Based Dip Treatment serves as an initial protective barrier against the elements and wood rot. This treatment helps to prolong the life of the timber by shielding it from moisture. However, it’s worth noting that you will need to carry out regular maintenance and re-treat the wood periodically to ensure lasting protection. In my experience, investing time into proper maintenance will yield better results in terms of durability.
Q: Does the weight of 296kgs impact installation?
A: The weight of 296kgs indicates that this is a sturdy structure, which is a plus as it adds to the overall stability and durability. However, this means that the installation may require additional manpower or mechanical assistance, especially if you’re placing it on a prepared base. While this weight lends to longevity, be sure to consider your installation plan to avoid complications.
