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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Premium Hatton 8ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers Grey
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 11 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 632949
Size: 8' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Country Living Premium Hatton 8ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse
In the market for a versatile and stylish summerhouse? We’ve taken a deep dive into the Country Living Premium Hatton 8ft x 8ft Contemporary Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers Grey to assess its features, solidify its market standing, and ultimately guide your purchasing decision.
Overview
This summerhouse falls under the broad category of Summer Houses, with subcategories including Small Summer Houses, Wooden Summer Houses, Modern Summer Houses, and Apex Summer Houses. The model features an apex roof, ensuring a stylish design coupled with effective rainwater drainage.
Construction Quality and Materials
The summerhouse is primarily made from shiplap tongue and groove cladding, renowned for its durability and aesthetic appeal. This construction method is prevalent among quality summer houses, with our analysis revealing it’s present in approximately 50% of similar products. However, in terms of the overall quality of materials used, we rated this model at a 2.5 out of 5. While the shiplap cladding is commendable, the use of untreated materials leaves concerns regarding long-term durability without proper maintenance. We find this aspect somewhat limiting, especially for potential buyers in harsher climates.
When it comes to the roofing, mineral felt has been selected for its performance, appearing in over 43% of the top-rated summerhouses. Our experts scored this summerhouse at 2.5 out of 5 in construction quality, indicating average standards. A further examination reveals that while the mineral felt is a good choice, the overall construction could benefit from additional robustness.
Windows and Flooring
This summerhouse features three windows with a styrene glazing option, which unfortunately received the lowest rating from our experts; it is utilized by only 1% of the top-performing summerhouses. We scored it 2.5 out of 5, primarily due to the fragility of styrene compared to more durable glass alternatives. That being said, they do help in maintaining natural light within.
However, the tongue & groove flooring is a definite plus, rated as the best construction material for floors. It’s celebrated for its strength and stability, scoring 4.5 out of 5 for ease of construction. This positive aspect adds a vital touch of quality, ensuring that you have a solid base for your summerhouse.
Value for Money and Installation
One of the standout features of this product is its competitive pricing, coming in truly affordable at about £2,245, making it 14% cheaper than the average for similar summerhouses of this size. This value is paired with a 10-year manufacturing guarantee, which provides peace of mind to the buyer.
Additionally, installation is included, which adds value for those looking for a hassle-free setup. As seen in our analysis, the ease of construction scored 4.5 out of 5, indicating that you can expect a straightforward installation process—even for those who might feel less confident in their DIY skills.
Market Standing and Conclusion
As per our extensive review of 1,188 summerhouses, the Country Living Premium Hatton stands at position 1058. This shows it’s somewhat below average in terms of market ranking—yet its affordability can be an attractive factor for those looking for basic options with solid features.
In conclusion, while the Country Living Premium Hatton offers decent aesthetics and adequate basic features, it may not suit those seeking premium quality or durability. If you prioritize style and ease of construction in a summerhouse, this model will appeal to you. However, if long-term durability without frequent maintenance checks is paramount, exploring other options, particularly those using treated timber or more robust window materials, may be wise.
For a product that is designed for value, this summerhouse shines, particularly if you’re looking to enhance your garden or outdoor living space without breaking the bank.
Product Details
Q: What size is the Country Living Hatton building, and how does that impact usability?
A: The Country Living Hatton boasts external dimensions of 2260 x 2494 x 2433 mm and internal dimensions measuring 2102 mm x 2298 mm x 1701 mm. This 8ft x 8ft size provides ample space for a variety of uses—whether you need a garden office, a playroom, or extra storage, it's versatile enough to accommodate your needs. However, if you plan to use the space for larger items or as a workshop, you might find it somewhat limiting. It's essential to assess what you'll use the space for to ensure it meets your expectations.
Q: What kind of maintenance is required for the Country Living Hatton?
A: To uphold the 3-year paint promise, regular maintenance and checks are crucial. The product comes with a small tin of paint for touch-ups, which is a thoughtful addition. However, this requirement may serve as a drawback if you’re not prepared to commit time to upkeep. In my experience, proactive maintenance can significantly prolong the lifespan of garden buildings, but potential buyers should be ready to invest a little effort periodically.
Q: Is the Country Living Hatton suitable for all types of ground surfaces?
A: Unfortunately, no. The building requires a suitable base for installation, and a flat, level solid base such as concrete or slabs is recommended. If you have uneven ground or soft soil, you would need to invest extra in preparing the base. This can sometimes complicate the installation process, but a solid foundation is essential for the longevity of the structure. Without it, you could run into issues down the line.
Q: What locking system is used for the Country Living Hatton, and is it secure?
A: The Country Living Hatton features a press lock system, providing a decent level of security for a garden building. While this may not be the most sophisticated locking mechanism available, it should deter casual theft. For added peace of mind, especially if you plan on storing valuable items, consider supplementing it with an additional lock or security measures.
Q: What are the benefits of the shiplap construction used in the Country Living Hatton?
A: The shiplap construction of this building not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also promotes durability and weather resistance. Shiplap is designed to allow water to run off easily, which helps prevent rot and moisture build-up. In my opinion, this feature is a significant advantage, as it enhances the longevity of your investment, provided you keep up with necessary maintenance.
Q: Are there any drawbacks to the glazing and roofing materials used in the Country Living Hatton?
A: The Country Living Hatton utilises styrene for glazing and mineral felt for roofing. While styrene is lighter and less susceptible to breakage compared to glass, it may not provide the same level of clarity and can become clouded over time. Meanwhile, mineral felt roofing, although economical, requires vigilance in repairs and replacement over time. Prospective buyers should weigh these factors against their specific needs and expectations.
Q: Can I return or cancel my order after painting the Country Living Hatton?
A: Once the building has been painted, it is classified as a bespoke item, meaning that cancellations and returns are not accepted. This policy might raise concerns for those who like to have flexible options. I recommend ensuring that you are entirely satisfied with your choice before proceeding with the order, as there are no do-overs once the paint is applied.
