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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living 7ft x 5ft Premium Sandon Double Storey Playhouse with Veranda Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers Grey
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 8 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 632943
Size: 7' x 5'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Country Living 7ft x 5ft Premium Sandon Double Storey Playhouse with Veranda Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers Grey Review
The Country Living 7ft x 5ft Premium Sandon Double Storey Playhouse with Veranda Painted + Installation is not just a play area for your children but a delightful addition to your garden. With its apex roof design and beautiful grey finish, this playhouse brings a touch of charm that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. But does it stand up to scrutiny? In this review, we’ll break down its features, strengths, and weaknesses to give you a comprehensive overview.
Design and Construction
This playhouse measures 7′ x 5′ and features a robust structure made from shiplap tongue & groove cladding, known for its durability and resistance to the elements. Unfortunately, the cladding is untreated, which means that you’ll need to consider protective treatments to preserve the wood in the long term. The construction quality, rated a 3 out of 5 by our experts, suggests that while it is satisfactory, it may not withstand extreme weather conditions without proper maintenance.
The apex roof is covered with mineral felt, a choice we appreciate for its widespread use in top-tier playhouses, being present in 88% of superior models. However, the construction of this playhouse scored below average in comparison, which raises concerns regarding its longevity. On a positive note, the windows are double-glazed with styrene, a material that our analysis showed to be preferred by 100% of the top 10% of products in this category.
Ease of Use and Assembly
One of the standout features of the Country Living playhouse is its installation service, which is included in the purchase price. Installation by expert teams ensures that your playhouse will be set up correctly and safely, giving you peace of mind. Rated a commendable 4 out of 5 for ease of construction, you can be assured that the setup will be smooth. Just prepare a suitable base such as concrete slabs before delivery.
Value for Money
Pricing can be a deal-breaker, and at £2,240.00, this playhouse is on the higher end of the spectrum. With an expert value-for-money score of just 2 out of 5, it’s evident that while the quality has its merits, the price does not necessarily align with the perceived value. In a market where comparable models deliver higher scores at significantly lower prices, it’s crucial to weigh your options. For instance, the 6×6 Mercia Honeysuckle offers a superior expert score at a fraction of the cost.
Windows, Doors, and Additional Features
This playhouse features four windows that offer plenty of light and visibility for your children as they play. Although there are no specific door types listed, the two-entry points ensure accessibility. The opaque topcoat is attractive and maintains the carrots of a welcoming play area.
Market Position and Conclusion
Positioned at 160 out of 188 products in the overall playhouse category reflects its competitive nature. Furthermore, it has dropped by 13 positions since its listing, indicating it may not be keeping pace with evolving market trends. Overall, while the Country Living 7ft x 5ft Premium Sandon Double Storey Playhouse with Veranda is visually appealing with quality construction elements, its significant price point and average performance ratings suggest that potential buyers should carefully consider their options.
In conclusion, if you are searching for a stylish, albeit expensive playhouse with installation included, the Premium Sandon might cater to your needs. However, assess alternatives in the market that promise better value for money without compromising on quality.
Final Thoughts
You’ll appreciate the charm and aesthetic this playhouse adds to your garden, but it’s essential to weigh its performance and cost against your family’s needs. If longevity, durability, and overall value are high on your list, consider exploring other options available in our Playhouse category.
Product Details
Q: What are the external and internal dimensions of the Country Living Sandon?
A: The Country Living Sandon has external dimensions of 2435 x 2090 x 1768 mm, making it a compact yet functional garden building. Inside, you'll have a comfortable space with internal dimensions of 2198 x 2022 x 2020 mm. This size strikes a balance between providing ample storage or workspace while fitting neatly into smaller gardens.
Q: Is the timber used in this building environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, the Country Living Sandon is built using PEFC certified timber sourced from sustainable forests. This means it meets high environmental standards, and you can feel good about your purchase knowing it's eco-friendly. Supporting sustainable timber practices is a plus, especially for environmentally conscious buyers.
Q: What maintenance is required to keep the paint on the building in good condition?
A: To uphold the integrity of the paintwork under the 3-year paint promise, regular checks and maintenance are necessary. The included small tin of paint for touch-ups ensures you can keep your building looking fresh. This aspect highlights the importance of commitment to maintenance for preserving the aesthetics and longevity of your purchase.
Q: Do I need to prepare a base for installation?
A: Absolutely. The Country Living Sandon requires a suitable, solid base such as concrete or slabs before installation. Additionally, leaving a 2-foot clearance gap around all sides of the building is recommended for maintenance purposes. This preparation requires some effort upfront but is crucial for ensuring the longevity and functionality of your building.
Q: How heavy is the Country Living Sandon, and will it require special delivery considerations?
A: Weighing in at 248 kg, the Country Living Sandon is robust and sturdy, offering peace of mind regarding its structural integrity. However, consider the weight when arranging for delivery and installation; a suitable base must be ready beforehand to ensure a smooth delivery process.
Q: What type of flooring can I expect with this garden building?
A: The flooring is made from tongue and groove materials, which provide strength and durability. This construction also enhances the overall aesthetic of the building, giving it a traditional look while being practical for daily use. However, as with all timber-based products, proper care and maintenance are vital to prevent warping or damage over time.
Q: What can be said about the weatherproofing of the Country Living Sandon?
A: The roof is covered with mineral felt, which is commonly used for its waterproofing abilities. However, I recommend conducting regular inspections post-installation to ensure no wear or damage occurs over time, which could compromise the building's integrity. Adequate maintenance will help sustain its effectiveness against the elements.
Q: Can I return or cancel my order after the building has been painted?
A: No, as the Country Living Sandon is a bespoke item, returns or cancellations cannot be accepted once the building has been painted. This policy emphasises the importance of making a well-informed decision prior to purchase, especially for a custom product like this. Be sure to consider your options carefully to avoid any disappointment later on.
