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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse Painted + Installation Aurora Green
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 12 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 598261
Size: 7' x 7'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse Painted + Installation Aurora Green
When it comes to summer houses, the Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse certainly turns heads with its charming design and functionality. Painted in a stunning Aurora Green, this model offers both aesthetics and practicality, making it a solid contender in the summer house market.
Product Overview
With dimensions of 7′ x 7′, the Flintham summerhouse is suitable for a variety of garden spaces. It boasts a 10-year guarantee, affirming the manufacturer’s confidence in its longevity. The double door locking system enhances security while the two styrene-glazed windows offer ample natural light—perfect for those tranquil afternoons spent inside.
Material and Construction Quality
Now, let’s delve into the specifics of material quality. The cladding is made from shiplap tongue & groove, one of the best available options for summer houses according to our experts. It’s used widely across the market, with a recommendation noted in 50% of the products analysed in this category. However, the Flintham model scored an average of 2.5 out of 5 for material quality. This is concerning when compared directly to the average expert score of 82 for similar products.
In terms of construction, this product retains that same score of 2.5. Although the design appears appealing, the evidently average construction quality brings a cautious note to consider.
The roofing is covered with mineral felt, which, although ranked as one of the better coverings, contributes to a slightly below-average score for overall performance at 2.5. Still, it does appear in 43% of high-scoring summer houses, suggesting worthiness despite the lower performance metrics attached to this build.
Ease of Assembly
On a positive note, we’ve assigned a stellar score of 5 out of 5 for ease of construction. The inclusion of the installation service makes this product incredibly user-friendly, perfect for anyone who may not have the time or expertise to tackle assembly on their own. The assembly team will contact you prior to delivery to discuss the installation process, ensuring a smooth experience.
Value for Money
When assessing value for money, the Flintham scores an impressive 4.5 out of 5. Priced at approximately £1,830, it offers a reasonable balance of cost versus features, especially given that it arrives pre-painted and with installation included at no extra charge. However, if you’re after higher quality, it might warrant exploring more options within the same price bracket or even lower.
Secondary Features and Considerations
While the choice of OSB for the flooring is rated ‘about average’ compared to other materials, it is clear that there are better alternatives for someone seeking optimal durability. With windows made from styrene, the product also takes a hit in the glazing department, as styrene windows are ranked the lowest in terms of quality amongst various options available.
Market Position and Alternatives
As per our analysis, the Flintham summerhouse holds a position in the market that is 13% below the average expert score for similar specifications. Considering this, you might consider alternatives like the Shire Houghton 7 x 7ft Double Door Apex, which received a higher expert ranking of 95 and is priced considerably lower. This type of cross-comparison is invaluable in your decision-making process. In total, we’ve assessed 100 summer houses of similar size, so it may be beneficial to look at our recommendations before making a final decision.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse is a visually pleasing option that may appeal to those with a penchant for aesthetics over entirely functional durability. With its attractive hue and charming details, it does have its merits, such as ease of assembly and decent value for money.
However, we recommend browsing options carefully—a thoughtful comparison could lead to finding more robust constructions or features yielding better long-term satisfaction. If you’re prioritizing durable building materials and enhanced longevity, there are certainly more competitive models available on the market today.
Ultimately, for those seeking a quaint summer house to enhance a garden landscape, the Flintham can fit the bill, particularly if set up with care and the right maintenance. But if quality is your focal point, it might be worth branching out and investigating more robust contenders.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Country Living product?
A: The Country Living garden building measures 7ft x 7ft externally, with internal dimensions of 2082mm x 1448mm. This size is ideal for a compact garden space while still offering enough room for storage or a small workshop. However, while efficient, the tight dimensions may not suit larger items or a full workbench. Consider what you plan to store to ensure it meets your needs.
Q: Is the building suitable for all weather conditions?
A: Yes, the Country Living building is designed to withstand various weather conditions. It features a roof covered with durable mineral felt, which provides reliable protection against rain. However, as with any outdoor structure, regular maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan, especially considering the requirement for a suitable base and clearance around the building. Make sure you are prepared for ongoing upkeep.
Q: Are there special requirements for installation?
A: Indeed, before installation, it's critical to have a flat, level solid base such as concrete or slabs ready. The product does not include a base, so you'll need to prepare this prior to the arrival of the installation team. Furthermore, it's advisable to leave a 2-foot clearance gap around all sides for proper maintenance of the timbers. This can add to your initial costs, but it ensures the longevity and stability of the building.
Q: What kind of certification does this product hold?
A: The Country Living garden building is FSC Certified, which guarantees that the wood used comes from responsibly managed forests. This is a significant advantage for environmentally-conscious consumers, as it assures you that your purchase supports sustainable practices. However, keep in mind that even eco-friendly materials require proper care to maintain their quality over time.
Q: What kind of locking system does the building have?
A: The building comes equipped with a lock and key system, providing added security for your belongings. This is an essential feature if you plan to store valuables or use the space as a workshop. Security is often overlooked in garden buildings, so this feature is reassuring. However, it’s worth ensuring that you keep your keys stored safely to avoid any potential access issues.
Q: What maintenance does the product require?
A: To maintain the paint and structural integrity, regular checks and upkeep are necessary to comply with the 3-year paint promise. You will receive a small tin of paint for touch-ups, but it's important to be proactive in keeping the surface protected from the elements. If you’re not prepared to commit to regular maintenance, this could be a drawback, as neglect may lead to quicker wear and tear.
Q: Can the windows be changed or are they fixed?
A: The window panel on this building is non-interchangeable, which means you won’t be able to swap them out if styles change or if damage occurs. This could limit your options for personalisation in the future. If customisation is important to you, consider giving this feature more thought before making your decision.
Q: Is delivery and installation included?
A: Yes, the Country Living building comes with an installation service at no extra cost, and it will be delivered and installed on the same day. This is a fantastic advantage, as it saves you time and effort compared to self-assembly. Just ensure you're available for the installation team to discuss the process, which helps clarify any questions you may have while onsite.
