Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers
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: 598216
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
When considering adding a summerhouse to your garden space, the Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse, available at HomeBase for £1,830, should be on your radar. With its quaint charm and practical features, this summerhouse promises a delightful blend of aesthetics and functionality. Let’s delve into what sets this product apart and whether it stands up to the competition.
Key Features & Specifications
- Dimensions: 7′ x 7′ (2181mm x 2227mm x 2233mm)
- Cladding Type: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Floor Material: OSB
- Roof Covering: Mineral Felt
- Window Glazing Material: Styrene
- Locking System: Lock and Key
- Doors: Double Door (2)
- Windows: 2
- Manufacturer’s Guarantee: 10 Years
Material Quality
Our expert assessments place the material quality and construction quality scores of the Flintham summerhouse at an even 2.5 out of 5. Although this may sound mediocre, it’s essential to consider the cladding used. The Shiplap Tongue & Groove design is highly regarded in the summerhouse market, being a popular choice due to its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. It’s worth noting that this type of cladding appears on 50% of the summerhouses we analyzed, indicating its reliability.
However, the summerhouse is constructed with untreated wood, which may raise concerns for long-term durability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Regular maintenance and periodic protective treatments will be crucial if you choose this product.
Windows & Doors
The double doors give you an inviting entrance, but the styrene glazing leaves much to be desired— scoring as the least desirable option available in our analysis. While it offers some safety features, it lacks the thermal properties and strength that stronger glazing options provide. Windows allow some natural light to permeate the interior, enhancing usability, though we feel the choice of styrene could potentially limit longevity.
Ease of Construction
One notable advantage is the ease of assembly, which our assessment rated a perfect 5 out of 5. The user-friendly design and straightforward instructions allow most people to tackle the installation without professional help. This is an attractive feature for those who take pride in DIY projects and enjoy the satisfaction of building their own space.
Value for Money
In the competitive market of summerhouses, the Flintham offers commendable value for money with a score of 4.5 out of 5. Priced at £1,830, it’s positioned below the average price of comparable summerhouses and delivers decent features for that price. However, if you seek the best expert ratings, it’s worth exploring alternative options. For example, the Shire Houghton Summer House scored significantly higher at 95 and is priced £990 less, making it a suitable alternative.
Market Position
According to our market analysis, this summerhouse sits at a rather low ranking of 869th out of 1188 options in the summerhouse category. This positions it in the lower quartile, suggesting that while it has some appealing qualities, it may not be the top choice among its peers in the market.
Other Considerations
If you are searching for a summerhouse that handles high wind areas or coastal conditions, you might want to look for thicker cladding and enhanced glazing. Alternatives like the Oren Shiplap Summer Houses come equipped with features more suited to rugged environments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Country Living Flintham 7 x 7 Traditional Summerhouse serves as a charming addition to your garden, especially if you’re inclined towards DIY projects and prefer a hands-on approach. Its user-friendly assembly and reasonable price point make it accessible. However, be mindful of the cladding quality and glazing options—investing in maintenance will be crucial to prolong its life. Evaluate your priorities thoroughly before making a decision, as many alternatives boasting both higher ratings and more durable materials are available.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Flintham or one of its competitors, ensuring your outdoor space reflects your lifestyle is what matters most. Happy shopping!
Product Details
Q: What are the external dimensions of the product?
A: The external dimensions of this Country Living garden building are 2181 mm x 2227 mm x 2233 mm. This compact size makes it an ideal fit for smaller gardens while still offering enough space for various uses, such as a workshop or a garden retreat.
Q: What are the internal dimensions of the product?
A: The internal dimensions measure 2082 mm x 1448 mm. While this internal space may feel limited for larger furniture or equipment, it is quite suitable for gardening tools or a comfortable reading nook. The design encourages efficient use of space.
Q: Is the product environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, the product is FSC Certified, which ensures that the wood used is sourced from responsibly managed forests. This certification gives me peace of mind knowing I'm making a choice that supports sustainable practices. It’s a great option if you are environmentally conscious!
Q: What should I know about maintenance?
A: To uphold the three-year paint promise, regular checks and maintenance are essential. This means being proactive about any signs of wear and tear. The benefit here is that I'm receiving a small tin of paint for touch-ups, which could be handy for preserving the building's aesthetic and prolonging its lifespan.
Q: Does the building come with a base?
A: No, the base is not included with this product. It’s essential to prepare a suitable foundation, ideally a flat, level, solid base like concrete or slabs. This might be a drawback for those not ready to invest in a base, but it ensures stability and durability once installed.
Q: How will the installation process work?
A: The installation team will reach out to you prior to delivery to discuss the installation process. The fact that the product is delivered and installed on the same day is a major convenience. This streamlined approach eliminates the hassles often associated with garden building assembly.
Q: Are there any restrictions on placement?
A: Yes, it is recommended to have a 2-foot clearance gap around all sides for maintenance purposes. While it may limit specific placement options in tighter spaces, this recommendation is crucial for ensuring proper upkeep of the timbers and preventing potential issues over time.
Q: What type of locking system does this building have?
A: This garden building features a lock and key system for added security. Personally, I think this is a valuable feature, especially if you're planning on storing valuable items inside. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your items are protected from unauthorized access.
Q: What materials are used for the roof and floor?
A: The roof is covered in mineral felt, while the floor is made from OSB (oriented strand board). While mineral felt may require occasional maintenance, it is relatively durable and effective in protecting against weather elements. OSB is a cost-effective floor material, but it may not be as robust as some alternatives, so care should be taken to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Are the windows interchangeable?
A: Unfortunately, the window panel is not interchangeable. This could be a drawback if you were looking for flexibility in design or modifications in the future. It’s worth considering how this fits into your overall vision before purchasing.
Q: Can I assemble the building myself?
A: Yes, self-assembly is required. If you enjoy DIY projects, this can be a rewarding experience. However, it may be daunting for some, so it’s also great that professional installation is available if needed.
Q: Is this product available in Ireland?
A: No, this particular range is not available in Ireland. This limitation could be a deciding factor for those residing there and looking for similar products. If you're elsewhere in the UK, you're in luck!