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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Hawksworth 10 x 8 Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 10 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 598220
Size: 10' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Country Living Hawksworth 10 x 8 Summerhouse: Is It Worth Your Investment?
In the realm of summer houses, the Country Living Hawksworth 10 x 8 Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers presents an appealing addition to any garden space. With a robust 10-year guarantee, it promises longevity and reliability, but does it live up to its promise? In this review, we delve into its features, construction quality, and how it stacks up against competitors. Let’s take a closer look at what this summer house has to offer.
Design and Specifics
Measuring 10′ x 8′, the Hawksworth summerhouse is spacious enough to function as a garden retreat, playroom, or hobby shed. One standout feature is its bi-fold doors, which not only enhance access but also invite natural light into the space. The summerhouse includes two styrene-glazed windows, offering additional light while still providing a level of security. While the shiplap tongue & groove cladding and tongue & groove flooring are commendable choices—which we typically see in 86% of summer houses—they do come with some considerations, especially regarding the treatment used.
Material Quality
Unfortunately, the product is noted to be untreated. This can be a potential drawback as untreated wood requires regular maintenance to prolong its life. This lack of treatment can leave the structure vulnerable to the elements, making it essential for owners to commit to upkeep—regular checks and maintenance are necessary to comply with the manufacturer’s 3-year paint promise.
The quality of materials is reflected in our expert assessment, where the summerhouse received a score of 2.5 out of 5 for material quality and 3 out of 5 for construction quality. These scores indicate a need for improvement, particularly in the durability of materials used. In comparison, other summer houses in the same category consistently showcase materials that yield a higher score, signalling better longevity and customer satisfaction.
Construction and Installation
On a more positive note, if you are someone who values ease of assembly, you will appreciate the 5 out of 5 score for ease of construction given to Hawksworth. The expert team handles the painting and assembly, sparing you the usual DIY hassles. You will need to have a level, solid base ready for installation, but once this is sorted, the process is straightforward.
Value for Money
The Hawksworth summerhouse is priced at £2,940—a figure that positions it as a mid-range option. Our analysis has shown it offers a value for money score of 4 out of 5, indicating reasonable pricing relative to the quality offered. Despite its lower material scores, competitive pricing compared to similar models makes it a viable choice for those prioritising value.
Market Positioning and Competitors
With a position ranking of 868th out of 1,188 products in the summer house category, the Hawksworth is somewhat positioned in the mid-tier segment. Notably, it is 5% better than the average in terms of expert scoring while being £14 cheaper than others in its class, which adds to its allure. However, the competition is tough, and there are options that deliver higher quality at a similar—or even lower—price point.
Alternative Options
If the need arises for something with a more robust build or additional features for high wind or coastal areas, consider alternatives such as the Oren 10′ x 8′ Shiplap Poolside Summer House or the Shire Sandringham 10 x 8ft Double Door Apex Summer House with Bay Window. Both of these options provide additional durability and features that may be beneficial depending on your location and use-case.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Country Living Hawksworth 10 x 8 Summerhouse certainly presents an attractive choice, particularly for buyers focused on cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. The quality of materials and treatment may leave room for improvement, but its design and versatility make it a worthy contender in the summer house market. If you’re willing to invest the time in regular maintenance, the Hawksworth could serve as the charming retreat you seek in your garden.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Country Living garden building, and how do they impact usability?
A: The Country Living garden building measures 10ft x 8ft externally, with internal dimensions of 2976mm x 2360mm. These dimensions provide ample space for various uses, whether you're looking to set up a workshop, a home office, or a garden retreat. The spacious interior can accommodate furniture and equipment comfortably, allowing you to customise it to your needs. However, it’s essential to keep in mind the surrounding space, as a 2-foot clearance gap around the entire structure is recommended for maintenance.
Q: Is the material of the Country Living garden building durable?
A: Yes, this building is made from FSC Certified Timber, ensuring that the materials are sourced sustainably and are of high quality. This certification not only guarantees durability but also supports environmentally-friendly practices. As a user, you can take comfort in knowing your garden building is built to last while being kind to the planet.
Q: What sort of maintenance should I expect for this product?
A: The Country Living garden building comes with a 3-year paint promise, which means you’ll need to conduct regular checks and maintenance to uphold this guarantee. This includes applying touch-up paint as needed, which is provided in a small tin with your purchase. While some may see this as an added chore, I view it as an opportunity to ensure your building remains in pristine condition over time, contributing to its longevity.
Q: Does the Country Living building come with an assembly service?
A: Yes, the installation service is included with the purchase of the Country Living garden building. This is a significant benefit, especially for those who may not have the experience or tools to assemble it themselves. The professional installation ensures that it is erected correctly and securely, giving you peace of mind. Just remember, it's your responsibility to prepare a suitable base ahead of time.
Q: What kind of locking system does the building have?
A: The Country Living garden building features a Lock and Key system for securing the doors, providing you with added security for your belongings. This feature is particularly beneficial if you intend to use the building for storage or as a workspace that houses valuable equipment. Knowing that your items are secured can give you confidence to use the space freely without worrying about potential theft.
Q: Are there any additional considerations before purchasing this building?
A: Yes, it's important to note that the Country Living garden building requires a suitable base, which is not included with the product. A flat, level concrete or slab base is highly recommended for optimal installation. Additionally, as this is a bespoke item, cancellations or returns cannot be accepted after the building has been painted. This policy may feel restrictive, so I advise making sure it's the right fit for you before finalising your order.
Q: How is the roof covered, and what are the advantages of this design?
A: The roof of the Country Living garden building is covered with Mineral Felt. This type of covering is known for being waterproof and protecting against the elements, thus prolonging the lifespan of your building. From my perspective, this feature is particularly advantageous in the UK’s variable weather conditions, ensuring that your garden building remains dry and usable throughout the year.
