Country Living Premium Ribble 8ft x 8ft Corner 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: 632966
Size: 8' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-depth Review of the Country Living Premium Ribble 8ft x 8ft Corner Summerhouse Painted + Installation Aurora Green
Summer houses are a delightful retreat for garden lovers, offering a beautiful space for relaxation, hobbies, or entertaining guests. Today, we’re diving into the Country Living Premium Ribble 8ft x 8ft Corner Summerhouse, a product that promises a blend of style, functionality, and durability. At first glance, this corner summer house is an attractive addition to any garden, but how does it hold up in terms of quality, construction, and overall value?
Key Features and Specifications
- Dimensions: 8′ x 8′
- Roofing Style: Pent
- Cladding: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Treatment: Untreated
- Doors: Double Door with Press Lock System
- Windows: 2 Windows with Styrene Glazing
- Weight: 357 kg
- Manufacturing Guarantee: 10 Years
Manufactured from FSC certified timber, the Ribble summerhouse is designed to meet high standards of environmental sustainability, which is critical to any responsible consumer. Noteworthy features include the durable shiplap tongue & groove cladding, which is a preferred choice among summerhouse constructions thanks to its resistance to warping and weather conditions.
Cladding and Roofing Analysis
The cladding on this summerhouse employs shiplap tongue & groove, a popular material used by 50% of summer houses we’ve analysed. Despite its widespread use, our experts rated the overall material quality at 2.5 out of 5, which is somewhat disappointing compared to other similar summerhouses on the market. This indicates potential concerns regarding the longevity and durability of the timber chosen.
The pent-style roof is covered with mineral felt, regarded as one of the best types of roofing materials, as it provides excellent protection from the elements. Other summerhouses in this size category typically offer similar or slightly better scores, so the average impartial score of 72 for roofing here is adequate, despite being below average for this size as well.
Flooring and Glazing Review
One of the strongest aspects of the Ribble summerhouse is its flooring. The tongue & groove floor construction is praised by our experts as the best available for summer homes. A commendable 86% of top-rated summer houses use this construction, and the Ribble is no exception. Though it scores lower than the average of 83, the quality here feels reassuring given its frequency among well-rated competitors.
Windows made from styrene unfortunately detract from the overall quality impression of this summerhouse. Scoring the lowest among glazing options, they only appear in 15% of all windowed summerhouses we researched. This lack of durability suggests a need for caution with potential breakage over time. The analysis indicates concerns about security and energy efficiency due to the thinner material used in these windows.
Value for Money
Retailing at approximately £3,120, the Ribble summerhouse is positioned on the higher end of the price spectrum for similar 8’ x 8’ options. However, it’s important to factor in the included installation services, which can save you substantial effort and cost-free hassles associated with DIY setups. At a higher price point, the £22 premium over the average summerhouse in this category means it should ideally present better quality materials and construction.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Attractive design with a corner positioning to maximize space
- Included installation service, saving time and effort
- Excellent reputation of the Country Living brand
Cons
- Lower material quality and construction ratings
- Styrene glazing is a major downside in terms of durability and efficiency
- Relatively high price compared to competitors with better features
Conclusion: Should You Buy It?
In conclusion, the Country Living Premium Ribble 8ft x 8ft Corner Summerhouse offers a mix of charm and practicality but doesn’t fully deliver on quality expectations relative to its price point. While it is undeniably an attractive choice for enhancing your garden space, you might want to explore alternatives that offer superior materials and functionality for similar or lower prices. If you’re leaning towards having a reliable and stylish corner summerhouse, you may wish to consider other options available in the market that better meet high standards and provide lasting value.
Ultimately, providing an idyllic garden retreat for relaxation is essential, but making the right choice based on quality and durability should always take precedence.
Product Details
Q: What are the external dimensions of the Country Living Ribble?
A: The external dimensions of the Country Living Ribble are 2121mm in height, 3683mm in width, and 2542mm in depth. This spacious design is ideal for those who need a considerable amount of room for storage or workspace, making it an attractive option for gardeners and hobbyists alike.
Q: How does the internal space compare to the external dimensions?
A: The internal dimensions are slightly smaller, measuring 1994mm in height, 2374mm in width, and 2374mm in depth. While there is a reduction in space due to the wall thickness, the ribble still offers a cozy environment for a variety of uses, from a garden office to a tool storage area. The shiplap construction also helps maintain a solid, sturdy feel to the internal space.
Q: Is the timber used in this building sustainable?
A: Yes, the Country Living Ribble features FSC Certified Timber, which ensures that the wood is sourced sustainably. This is an important consideration for eco-conscious consumers. Using timber from responsibly managed forests means you can enjoy your garden building knowing that it has been constructed with environmental stewardship in mind.
Q: What level of maintenance can I expect with this product?
A: The Country Living Ribble comes with a 3-year paint promise; however, it requires regular checks and maintenance to keep it in good condition. It’s worth noting that you will receive a small tin of paint for touch-ups, which can be very convenient. I personally appreciate this feature as it allows owners to maintain the aesthetic appeal without a significant investment in materials.
Q: What foundation do I need for this building?
A: The installation of the Country Living Ribble requires a flat, level solid base such as concrete or slabs. Ensuring that you prepare a suitable base is crucial not only for the installation but also for long-term maintenance of the structure. I recommend planning ahead to avoid any installation delays.
Q: How important is the clearance gap around the building?
A: Maintaining a 2-foot clearance gap around all sides of the building is highly recommended. This allows for optimal upkeep of the timber and ensures longevity. From my experience, neglecting such gaps can lead to problems with moisture and pest control. So, it’s wise to follow this guideline for peace of mind and maintenance ease.
Q: What locking system does the Country Living Ribble feature?
A: This garden building is equipped with a press lock system, which offers a decent level of security. While it may not be the most advanced locking mechanism on the market, it provides sufficient protection against casual tampering. For those with more valuable items, you might consider additional security measures.
Q: Is an installation service included, and what should I expect?
A: Yes, an installation service is included with the Country Living Ribble. This is a huge advantage if you are not experienced in DIY or simply want a hassle-free setup. However, just remember that your base must be ready before the installation team arrives, so planning is key to avoiding any snags on delivery day.
Q: What type of glazing is used in this building, and what are the benefits?
A: The glazing material used is Styrene. This type of glazing is more impact-resistant and lightweight compared to traditional glass, making it ideal for garden buildings. However, I must note that while Styrene is durable, it may scratch more easily, which could be a consideration depending on your planned usage of the building.
Q: What finishing options are available for the Ribble garden building?
A: The Country Living Ribble features an opaque topcoat finish. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also offers a layer of protection against the elements. I find this option particularly appealing, as it helps maintain the character of the timber while ensuring that the structure remains weather-resistant and visually attractive.