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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Tower Grey
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: 632955
Size: 0' x 0'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Review of the Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Tower Grey
As you navigate the myriad of options available in the realm of summerhouses, one product that merits your attention is the Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse. This summerhouse is stylishly painted in Thorpe Tower Grey, showcasing a modern aesthetic that can enhance any garden. However, its appeal doesn’t just lie in its looks; a complete assessment reveals a blend of strengths and weaknesses worth considering.
Category Insights
This summerhouse sits firmly within the Summer Houses category, with notable subcategories including Small Summer Houses, Wooden Summer Houses, Modern Summer Houses, and Apex Summer Houses. The apex roofing style and shiplap tongue & groove cladding are characteristic features in this domain, providing both durability and aesthetic appeal.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 12ft x 8ft
- Roof Style: Apex
- Cladding: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Roof Covering: Mineral Felt
- Glazing Material: Styrene
- Windows: 4
- Locking System: Press Lock
- Weight: 278 kg
Quality Assessment
When evaluating the materials and construction quality, we find ourselves rather mixed about the overall ratings. Our experts assign a score of 2.5 out of 5 for both the quality of materials and construction. With an average Expert Score of 70 for similar summerhouses, this particular structure falls short by 9%. The primary materials, while standard, could be perceived as underwhelming by those seeking a premium product.
Conversely, the ease of construction shines through, rated an impressive 4.5 out of 5. The summerhouse benefits from an installation service included, allowing you a stress-free setup — perfect for those who may not be handy or lack enough time to embark on a DIY project.
Value for Money
With a price tag of £3,060, the summerhouse positions itself at the higher end of the market. Yet, it scores 4.5 out of 5 in value for money, largely due to its stylish design and the added value of professional installation. Comparably, you will find alternatives at significant savings without compromising on quality like the Shire 7×7 Alnwick Summerhouse for £1,550 that offers a much higher Expert Score of 90. This indicates that while the Country Living product represents a significant investment, it may not necessarily provide the best value in terms of expert ratings.
Window and Glazing Analysis
The summerhouse features four styrene-glazed windows, which unfortunately score the lowest in terms of glazing options. While they provide natural light, the use of styrene, identified in only 15% of windowed summerhouses, raises concerns regarding durability and insulation performance. Judging by the use of better glazing options available on the market, you might want to consider alternatives if window longevity is a priority for you.
Performance in Market Rankings
In the overall summerhouses category, this model currently ranks at 1018 out of 1,188, suggesting it’s not a leading option with a notable drop of 651 positions since its introduction. If high rankings contribute to your purchasing decisions, this particular summerhouse may not impress.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
One noteworthy aspect of the Country Living Premium Hatton summerhouse is its maintenance commitments. According to the manufacturer’s guidelines, you’ll receive a small tin of paint for necessary touch-ups, with regular checks needed to uphold the three-year paint promise. Additionally, you’ll need a flat, solid base ready for installation, which is critical for ensuring the longevity of the build. This level of maintenance might suit dedicated owners but could deter those looking for something more low-maintenance.
Conclusion
In summary, the Country Living Premium Hatton 12ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse offers a blend of stylish design and adequate performance features, catered towards individuals who appreciate the beauty of their outdoor space. However, its lacklustre ratings regarding construction quality, materials, and glazing options may compel potential buyers to explore alternatives that provide greater value or performance. With competitive products on the market, such as the Shire 7×7 Alnwick Summerhouse, enthusiasts of garden aesthetics should weigh their options carefully, especially considering the investment required.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Country Living Hatton building?
A: The Country Living Hatton measures 12ft x 8ft externally, with internal dimensions of 2102mm x 2298mm x 2924mm. This spacious layout provides ample room for storage or a workshop, making it suitable for various outdoor needs. I find that this size strikes a nice balance between being roomy enough for functionality without dominating your garden space.
Q: Is the timber used in the construction of this building of good quality?
A: Yes, the Country Living Hatton is constructed from FSC Certified Timber. Being FSC certified is fantastic as it ensures that the wood comes from well-managed forests, promoting sustainability. I view this as a significant plus because it not only contributes to environmental responsibility but also ensures the longevity and durability of your shed.
Q: What are the maintenance requirements for this garden building?
A: It’s essential to adhere to regular maintenance checks and upkeep to comply with the 3-year paint promise. You will receive a small tin of paint for touch-ups, which is handy. However, you'll need to stay on top of this maintenance, as neglecting it could shorten the lifespan of the exterior finish. I recommend setting a regular schedule in your gardening calendar for this upkeep to ensure your building looks great year after year.
Q: Does the Country Living Hatton require a foundation for installation?
A: Absolutely! A suitable base is required for installation, and the recommendation is for a flat, level solid base such as concrete or slabs. This foundation is critical to prevent uneven settling and potential moisture problems. I often stress the importance of this aspect as it saves a great deal of hassle down the line.
Q: How many doors does the Country Living Hatton have?
A: This building features two doors, offering excellent accessibility, which I find particularly advantageous. This dual access allows for easier movement of equipment or furniture in and out, making it a practical choice for those who plan to use it as a workshop or storage space.
Q: What type of roof covering is used, and how does it perform?
A: The roof is covered with mineral felt, which is a tried-and-true option for garden buildings. It provides decent protection against the elements, but regular inspections and maintenance are urged to prevent leaks or degradation. I appreciate the functionality of mineral felt, but keep in mind that it may require replacement sooner than more robust roofing options, depending on weather exposure.
Q: What is the locking system like for security?
A: The Country Living Hatton features a press lock system, which offers a reasonable level of security for standard garden storage needs. While it’s adequate for keeping casual thieves at bay, I would always recommend bolstering security further, particularly if you are storing valuable tools or equipment.
Q: Are windows included with the Country Living Hatton, and what material is used?
A: Unfortunately, the technical specifications do not provide clear details regarding the windows. As such, I cannot confirm specifics about window size or materials. However, I suggest double-checking with the retailer for any available options—having appropriate windows can greatly enhance light and ventilation, transforming your shed into a more pleasant space.
Q: What construction type is used for the walls?
A: The walls are constructed using the shiplap style, which is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Shiplap construction allows for good water runoff, reducing the risk of moisture getting in, which is a significant advantage in the UK's damp climate. I find that this style not only adds character but also enhances durability.
Q: Can I return or cancel my order after the building has been painted?
A: No, since the Country Living Hatton is a bespoke item, returns or cancellations cannot be accepted once the building has been painted. It’s crucial to be certain about your purchase before placing an order. From my perspective, this is a reasonable policy, as it prevents discarded materials from contributing to waste while ensuring that customers have a final product that they truly want.
