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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Country Living Tuxford 8 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse Painted + Installation Thorpe Towers
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: 598222
Size: 8' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Country Living Tuxford 8 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse
The Country Living Tuxford 8 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse represents a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality, making it a noteworthy consideration for garden enthusiasts looking to enhance their outdoor spaces. With a 10-year guarantee and impressive features, it offers a tempting option, but how does it truly measure up against the competition?
Overview
Measuring 8′ x 8′, the Tuxford summerhouse fits snugly into various outdoor settings, presenting itself as both a charming retreat and a practical storage option. Its Summer Houses classification allows it to cater to those desiring garden leisure spaces as well as contributing to functional use, ideal for hobbies or weekend gatherings.
Specifications & Features
- Brand: Country Living
- Cladding Material: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Door Type: Double door (lockable with a lock and key)
- Windows: 3 styrene windows
- Roofing Covering: Mineral Felt
- Flooring Material: Tongue & Groove
- Protective Treatment: Untreated
- Warranty: 10 years
- Expert Rating: 2.5 for quality of materials, 2.5 for construction quality, 4.5 for ease of construction, and 4 for value for money.
- Dimensions: External – 2293mm x 2494mm x 2457mm; Internal – 2350mm x 1753mm.
Key Features That Stand Out
In evaluating the standout features of the Tuxford summerhouse, several components not only meet but exceed typical expectations:
- Tongue & Groove Flooring: This type of flooring isn’t just robust; it is also a preferred choice found in 86% of top-quality summerhouses. Its design provides excellent durability against wear and tear.
- Shiplap Tongue & Groove Cladding: Scoring highly amongst expert evaluations, this cladding protects against the elements while enhancing aesthetic charm.
- Mineral Felt Roofing: Rated as one of the best options for roofing, it provides excellent insulation and weather resistance.
Performance Insights
Despite the impressive features, it is essential to address the mixed performance ratings attributed to the Tuxford. Both material and construction quality have received a fair 2.5 out of 5 score from our experts. This raises the query: does it justify its position in a saturated market segment that boasts high-scoring competitors?
The use of untreated timber is a potential concern, as it requires regular maintenance to enhance longevity. Regular checks are mandated to adhere to the manufacturer’s paint promise, plus a wee tin for touch-ups is included, which means you must be proactive in the upkeep to enjoy the promised durability.
Value for Money
Priced at £2,460 and compared to similar products, the Tuxford initially appears to position itself favorably; it sits 10% under the average price in the market while delivering a competitive expert score of 63. However, if you’re seeking better expert scores and more favourable materials, options are available that could save you considerable amounts, such as the Country Living Premium Hatton or the Hawksworth summerhouses, both at lower or comparable prices with better performance metrics.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Country Living Tuxford does boast an appealing aesthetic and a reasonable construction size, the quality perceptions come into play. Styrene windows, although functioning and suitable for most garden scenarios, received a disappointing evaluation as the least desirable glazing option. With the limited exposure of these choices in high-performing products, you may want to consider alternatives.
Final Thoughts
The Country Living Tuxford 8 x 8 Premium Traditional Summerhouse presents itself as a solid choice but requires balance and thought. It performs adequately concerning its features and comes equipped with a robust guarantee. However, potential buyers should weigh its limitations against similar offerings in the market. The decision rests ultimately on whether the unique charm and guarantee align well with your individual needs and aesthetic aspirations for your garden.
Ultimately, if you value convenience and are willing to invest in upkeep, the Tuxford could be a worthy addition to your outdoor space. For those requiring sturdiness, enhanced window quality, or who might be budget-conscious, investigating other options might yield better satisfaction.
Product Details
Q: What are the overall dimensions of the Country Living garden building?
A: The Country Living garden building has external dimensions of 2293mm x 2494mm x 2457mm and internal dimensions of 2350mm x 1753mm. This size makes it suitable for various uses, whether as a storage space, workshop, or a relaxing garden retreat. I appreciate how this design maximises both internal space and a compact external footprint, making it a versatile addition to almost any garden.
Q: Is the timber used in this building environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, the Country Living garden building is constructed from FSC Certified Timber. This certification ensures that the timber has been sourced responsibly, promoting sustainable forest management. As an eco-conscious consumer, I find this a significant advantage, as it allows me to enjoy a quality product while also supporting environmentally-friendly practices.
Q: What kind of maintenance can I expect with this garden building?
A: To adhere to the 3-year paint promise, regular maintenance and checks are necessary. You’ll receive a small tin of paint for touch-ups when needed. This level of commitment to upkeep is vital in ensuring that your building remains in good condition, although it does mean that you will need to plan for periodic maintenance. It's something to consider if you prefer a low-maintenance solution.
Q: Does the Country Living garden building require a specific base for installation?
A: Yes, it is crucial to prepare a suitable base before installation. A flat, level, solid base such as concrete or slabs is recommended, along with a 2-foot clearance gap around all sides of the building for timber maintenance. This requirement may add to your initial setup efforts, but it will undoubtedly ensure the longevity and stability of the structure.
Q: What advantages does the locking system provide?
A: The garden building features a lock and key system, enhancing security for your belongings and providing peace of mind. I find this particularly valuable if you plan to store tools or other valuable items inside. It’s reassuring to know that your possessions are safe and secure, especially if your garden is accessible to others.
Q: Are there any risks associated with this being a bespoke item?
A: Yes, it's important to be aware that the Country Living garden building is a bespoke item. This means that once the building has been painted, cancellation or returns are not accepted. While the customisation can enhance your experience, it also poses a risk if you have doubts about your colour choices or other specific features. Make sure to weigh your decisions carefully before finalising the order.
Q: What materials are used for the roof and flooring of the building?
A: The roof is fitted with mineral felt, providing reliable water resistance and protection against the elements. The flooring consists of tongue and groove boards, which not only offer durability but also a classic aesthetic appeal. I appreciate the quality of these materials as they contribute to the overall sturdiness and functionality of the building, ensuring it withstands various weather conditions over time.
