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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Tuxford 12 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse Painted + Installation Aurora Green
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: 598269
Size: 12' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Country Living Tuxford 12 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse
For anyone seeking a charming, accommodating space to unwind or entertain in the garden, the Country Living Tuxford 12 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse might just be on your radar. Alongside its elegant aesthetic, this summerhouse offers a modest yet welcoming footprint. Let’s delve deeper into its features, performance, and how it stacks up against the competition in the summerhouse market.
Key Features & Specifications
- Dimensions: 12′ x 8′
- Construction Type: Shiplap Tongue & Groove cladding
- Treatment: Untreated
- Windows: 4 styrene-glazed windows
- Doors: Locked with a lock and key system (2 doors)
- Roof type: Mineral felt covering
- Brand: Country Living
- Guarantee: 10 years
Materials & Construction Quality
Despite its appealing design, the construction of this summerhouse leaves a bit to be desired. Our experts rated the quality of materials as 2.5 out of 5, reflecting a combination of good cladding with some compromises in other areas. The shiplap tongue & groove cladding is a standard in the industry, used in 50% of summerhouses we analysed, and it is regarded as one of the better materials available. However, the untreated nature of this wood raises concerns about longevity, especially in areas prone to moisture or pests.
When it comes to the overall construction quality, it scores equally low at 2.5 out of 5. This rating is supported by its subpar glazing material: while the styrene windows certainly look pleasant, they are rated among the worst options due to their lower durability compared to glass alternatives. If safety and security are paramount for you, this could be a notable drawback.
Ease of Assembly
On a positive note, the ease of construction scores well at 4 out of 5. Users can expect a straightforward assembly process, particularly because the summerhouse comes with an installation service included. This piece of mind can’t be understated, especially if you’re not handy with tools or don’t want to spend your weekend reading complex manuals.
Value for Money
With a price tag of approximately £3,275, evaluated alongside its competition, we believe the Country Living Tuxford Summerhouse is good value for money, rating 4 out of 5 in this aspect. It’s priced slightly below the average for summerhouses of its size, making it an attractive option without completely skimping on quality.
What Makes It Stand Out
Three standout features feature prominently in the product’s outline:
- The robust tongue & groove floor used in 86% of the top-tier summerhouses.
- The quality of shiplap tongue & groove cladding, commonly praised among top competitors.
- The use of mineral felt roofing, acknowledged for its widespread adoption among leading models.
Market Comparison
Positioned at rank 1148 out of 1188 in the summerhouse category shows that this particular model is currently receiving less favorable attention compared to competitors. However, with a focus on value and ease of assembly, this model retains appeal for budget-conscious buyers looking for a straightforward installation process. If you’ve got specific needs—like exposure to high winds or coastal environments—you might want to scout around for alternatives with better durability.
Maintenance Considerations
It’s important to note that Country Living recommends regular maintenance to uphold the 3-year paint promise. A small paint tin is included for touch-ups, so if upkeep doesn’t scare you off, this could fit beautifully into your garden landscape for years to come.
Who Should Buy It?
This summerhouse is best suited for:
- Those looking for a stylish, functional outdoor space without excessive investment.
- Buyers who appreciate a convenient installation service.
- Individuals who are comfortable with regular maintenance and care.
If you feel drawn to classic aesthetics and aren’t primarily concerned with high-level durability, the Country Living Tuxford could be a worthy contender. Just keep in mind the factors mentioned above, and weigh them alongside your personal requirements and local climate conditions.
Conclusion
The Country Living Tuxford 12 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse undoubtedly charms with its traditional design. Nevertheless, its moderate material quality and construction standards shouldn’t be overlooked. Balancing aesthetics with functionality, it presents a solid choice for casual garden enthusiasts, but could fall short for those seeking a more robust structure. As ever, ensure to weigh all aspects before making a choice that best fits your outdoor lifestyle.
Product Details
Q: What are the external and internal dimensions of the Country Living garden building?
A: The Country Living garden building has external dimensions of 2260mm x 2494mm x 3656mm, while its internal dimensions are 2350mm x 2974mm. This size is quite spacious and provides ample room for usage as a garden office, workshop, or storage space, allowing you to effectively utilise this building for various purposes.
Q: Is the timber used in the Country Living garden building environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, the timber used in this garden building is FSC Certified. This certification means that the wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests, which is great for the environment. As an expert, I'd say this feature is a substantial advantage, as it enables you to make an eco-friendly choice for your garden building.
Q: What maintenance is required to keep the garden building looking its best?
A: To comply with the three-year paint promise, regular checks and maintenance are required. The product comes with a small tin of paint for touch-ups. It's crucial to attend to these maintenance tasks to prolong the life and appearance of your garden building, making it look fresh and protecting your investment over time.
Q: Does the building require a specific type of base for installation?
A: Indeed, the Country Living garden building needs a suitable base ready for installation. I recommend a flat, level solid base such as concrete or slabs. This groundwork is vital to ensure stability and prevent potential issues with moisture or pests in the long run.
Q: How much space should I leave around the building for maintenance purposes?
A: It is recommended that you allow a 2-foot clearance gap around all sides of the building for maintaining the upkeep of the timbers. This space is essential for ensuring easy access during maintenance tasks, and helps to maintain the durability of the wood by allowing proper airflow.
Q: Is there an option for installation service?
A: Yes, the Country Living garden building includes an installation service. I find this a significant benefit, particularly for those who may not be comfortable with DIY assembly or lack the time to set it up themselves. Professional installation ensures that your building is erected correctly from the start, saving you hassle in the long run.
Q: What kind of locking system does the garden building feature?
A: This model features a lock and key system, providing an added layer of security for your belongings. Given the size and potential use of this building, having a secure locking mechanism gives you peace of mind, especially if you plan to store valuable items inside.
Q: Are there any restrictions on returns or cancellations after ordering?
A: Yes, because this is a bespoke item, once the building has been painted, cancellations or returns are not accepted. It's essential to consider this before your purchase to ensure that you're fully committed to the order, as it can limit your flexibility should you change your mind.
Q: What are the floor and roofing materials used in the garden building?
A: The garden building features a tongue and groove floor, known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for various uses. Additionally, the roof is covered with mineral felt, which provides good waterproofing. Both these features contribute to the overall quality and longevity of the structure, which is something I highly appreciate in garden buildings.
