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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary 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: 632956
Size: 0' x 0'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse Review
When it comes to transforming your garden into a serene retreat, the Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse painted in Aurora Green stands out as a promising choice. With features such as an apex roof style and lockable doors equipped with a press lock system, it seems to blend aesthetics with practicality. However, how does it really fare against competitors in the summerhouse market? Let’s delve deeper.
Design and Build Quality
This summerhouse features shiplap tongue & groove cladding, renowned for its sturdiness and longevity. Indeed, we appreciate seeing this particular cladding as it is used in 50% of similarly sized summerhouses across various analyses, indicating its popularity for good reason. However, its Expert Score for material quality is just 2.5 out of 5, which is well below industry averages. This makes us question whether Country Living has opted for a cost-effective path at the expense of durability.
The construction quality also receives a score of 2.5 out of 5, bringing into perspective that while it may look great, we might be encountering issues with wear and tear over time. Add to this the untreated wood, and we find ourselves in a somewhat precarious position; regular maintenance will be essential to ward off rot, particularly without pre-treatments applied. Interestingly, the flooring is made of tongue & groove, rated as the best construction type, which adds a level of reassurance when it comes to longevity.
Roofing and Windows
The summerhouse uses a mineral felt roof covering, another common feature which provides decent protection against the elements. This material is present in 26% of summerhouses and used in 43% of top-performing models. Thus, while not the best available, it does offer reasonable longevity for your investment.
Moving onto windows, the styrene glazing leaves much to be desired. Scoring the lowest in our analyses, this glazing was only utilized in 15% of the market’s summerhouses. Although its lightweight characteristics might make it an alluring choice, the absence of better-performing glass in this build is concerning.
Value for Money
At a retail price of £3,060, you might be expecting higher quality materials and construction. With a value for money score of 4.5 out of 5, you can appreciate some of its cost-saving features, particularly the inclusion of an installation service which might appeal to those not wanting to embark on a DIY project. However, when compared to other models within the same category, the average Expert Score of competing summerhouses shines a light on potential overspending here, as this particular summerhouse hovers lower in the rankings.
Interestingly, while the Country Living Premium Hatton offers great aesthetic appeal with its striking colour, the average summerhouse in the same bracket possesses higher Expert Scores and often lower price points. For instance, models like the Shire 7xft7 Alnwick Summerhouse, priced at £1,550, deliver significantly better value with an Expert Score of 90.
Installation and Maintenance
One benefit to purchasing this summerhouse is the included installation service, a detail that we truly appreciate. It simplifies the entire process, ensuring you don’t have to worry about assembling the structure on your own. Just be sure to prepare a suitable base beforehand, as a flat and level solid base is essential for optimal stability and durability.
Regular checks and maintenance are encouraged, especially as the company promises a 3-year paint commitment with a complimentary tin for touch-ups included in the package. This leads me to believe that purchasing this summerhouse isn’t just a one-off investment, but rather a long-term commitment to upkeep.
Key Takeaways
- Quality of Materials: Shiplap tongue & groove construction is beneficial, yet overall quality is below average.
- Roof Structure: Mineral felt is standard but lacks potential in severe weather conditions.
- Glazing Performance: Styrene windows are the lowest-rated glazing type, indicating a potential vulnerability to breakage.
- Value for Money: While features like installation are beneficial, the high price tag may deter buyers when superior alternatives exist.
- Maintenance Required: Regular upkeep is a must, affecting the long-term satisfaction of ownership.
The Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse provides an attractive option for those seeking an aesthetically pleasing addition to their garden. However, with lower-than-average scores in quality and glazing performance, it may not be the best value for your hard-earned money. As always, I suggest exploring alternatives like the Shire models, which could provide superior features and higher Expert scores for a fraction of the cost. Overall, this purchase requires careful consideration and vigilance for ongoing maintenance to truly thrive in your outdoor space.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Country Living Hatton, and how does that affect its usability?
A: The external dimensions of the Country Living Hatton are 2260 x 2494 x 3656 mm, while the internal dimensions are 2102 x 2298 x 2924 mm. This size makes it ideal for various uses, whether as a garden office, workshop, or leisure space. However, I recommend ensuring you have sufficient space in your garden to accommodate the 2-foot clearance gap around all sides for easy maintenance and optimal functionality.
Q: How does the choice of materials impact the Country Living Hatton?
A: The Country Living Hatton is constructed from FSC Certified Timber, which not only assures you that the wood is sourced sustainably but also offers strength and durability. The shiplap construction style enhances its resistance to weather elements, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use.
Q: What finishing options are available, and what maintenance should I be aware of?
A: The Hatton features an opaque topcoat finish, offering a sleek look while protecting the wood beneath. However, keep in mind the 3-year paint promise; regular checks and maintenance are necessary to keep the building looking its best. You'll receive a small tin of paint for touch-ups, so having an eye on the paintwork is essential to prevent deterioration over time.
Q: What type of base is recommended for installation?
A: It is crucial to prepare a flat, level, solid base such as concrete or slabs before installation. This not only ensures the structural integrity of the building but also helps avoid water pooling or settling issues that could affect the longevity of the timber. Without a proper base, you could face complications in the future.
Q: Can I return the Country Living Hatton if I change my mind after it's painted?
A: Unfortunately, as the Country Living Hatton is a bespoke item, once it's painted, returns or cancellations are not accepted. This is something to consider before placing your order, as it places the onus on you to ensure it meets your needs before proceeding. Make certain you are completely satisfied with your decision before ordering.
Q: What security features does the Hatton include?
A: The Country Living Hatton is equipped with a press lock system, which enhances its security. This is a positive feature, as it helps protect your belongings inside the building from potential theft while giving you peace of mind. However, users seeking higher security features may want to consider additional upgrades or locking systems.
Q: Is installation included with the Country Living Hatton?
A: Yes, an installation service is included, which is a significant benefit. This means you won’t have to worry about any DIY assembly challenges, ensuring your building is set up correctly from the start. Professional installation can save you time and provide reassurance that everything is secure and level.
Q: Does the Country Living Hatton have any special glazing features?
A: The glazing material used in the Country Living Hatton is styrene. While it is lightweight and offers a good degree of safety compared to glass, do note that it may not provide the same level of insulation. This is worth considering if you live in a particularly cold climate or plan to use the building year-round.
