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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Forest Garden 4×3 Apex Dip treated Overlap Wooden Shed with floor
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 15 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: EAN: 5013053176719
Size: 4' x 3'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Forest Garden 4×3 Apex Dip Treated Overlap Wooden Shed
The Forest Garden 4×3 Apex Dip Treated Overlap Wooden Shed is a compact storage solution that falls under the main category of Sheds. While primarily categorized as a shed, it may also appeal to those looking for a small garden house or storage unit, particularly for seasonal items or tools. In this thorough review, we will unpack the key features, benefits, and our assessments based on expert analysis.
Product Overview
Designed for practicality, the Forest Garden shed boasts a size of 4′ x 3′, making it an ideal choice for compact gardens or limited outdoor spaces. It features a single door with a hasp and staple locking system for enhanced security, ensuring your belongings are safe. The apex roof design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, allowing rainwater to easily slide off, which reduces the likelihood of leaks.
Durability and Material Quality
The shed’s construction utilizes overlap board cladding, which provides a lightweight structure but is generally regarded as one of the least robust options available, scoring 2.5 out of 5 for material quality in our expert evaluations. The walls feature a thin thickness of just 7mm, which further contributes to their ranking at the lower end of shed wall constructions, determining long-term durability and resistance to damage.
However, it’s reassuring that Forest Garden offers a 10-year guarantee on this product, a testament to their confidence in its overall construction despite its shortcomings in material choice.
Roofing and Flooring
One of the highlights of this model is its roofing; constructed using sand felt, it is noted by our experts as a superior roofing material for this type of shed, scoring higher than many others in terms of moisture resistance. It features a roof board thickness of 8mm, which, while lower than the industry average, holds well against the lighter build construction.
On the other hand, the 14mm thick floor is impressive and ranks among the best for solid construction in this size category. Having a sturdy base is crucial, particularly for those placing heavy items inside. This durability can help counterbalance the lesser wall quality.
Height and Space Consideration
With an overall height of 1600mm (5′), this shed is on the shorter side, measuring 16% less than the average for similar sized sheds. If you require ample headroom for moving items like larger tools or bicycles, this might be a limiting factor. Nevertheless, for a compact space or when using for less bulky items, the height should suffice.
Market Position and Value for Money
Positioned competitively, we note this shed is priced significantly lower than others in the same category, at approximately £374. With an expert score of 80, it ranks 12% lower than the average for this category, indicating that while you may save some money upfront, it might lack in durability and robust construction elements that could extend its usefulness over time.
For those working within a strict budget, it’s an affordable option for a garden storage solution without substantial long-term investment. Yet, careful consideration is warranted given its lower material ratings.
Expert Recommendation
In our analysis, we found alternatives that outperform the Forest Garden 4×3 Apex shed considerably. For example, the Rowlinson 4′ x 3′ Windowless Heritage Shed, priced at £454, offers superior materials with an expert score of 100, representing a sound investment for those prioritising quality and durability.
Additionally, if you’re budget-conscious but in need of effective storage, the 6′ x 2’6 Forest Large Double Door Pent Wooden Garden Storage Bike/Mower Store priced at £200 could save £174 while delivering similar functionality.
Conclusion: Should You Choose the Forest Garden Shed?
To sum up, the Forest Garden 4×3 Apex Dip Treated Overlap Wooden Shed is a viable option if you seek a low-cost entry-level garden shed for seasonal storage. While it succeeds in certain areas, such as its impressive flooring and roof material, the overlap cladding and lower overall expert score suggest you should compare with other options before making a purchase decision. We recommend taking into account both your budget and your long-term needs for garden storage before proceeding.
In essence, if you’re keen on a budget-friendly, easy-to-construct shed and can overlook some material quality aspects, this could serve you adequately for basic storage needs.
Product Details
Q: What type of locking system does this garden building use?
A: This garden building features a hasp and staple locking system. This is a simple yet effective locking mechanism that can provide additional security for your belongings inside the building. However, while it is a step up from no lock at all, those looking for high security might want to consider upgrading to a more robust locking system.
Q: How many doors does this garden building have, and what type are they?
A: The garden building includes a single door. This can be a convenient feature as it simplifies access but could be a drawback for those needing a more substantial entry point, especially if you plan to store larger items inside. The single door configuration is ideal for compact spaces where a larger double-door entry might not be necessary.
Q: Is a base included with this garden building, and why is that important?
A: Yes, the building comes with a base included. This is a significant advantage as having a sturdy base ensures that the structure is stable and levels out any uneven ground, which can prevent moisture build-up and damage over time. It simplifies installation as well – a time-saver for the DIY enthusiast!
Q: What is the thickness of the floor, and how does that affect durability?
A: The floor has a thickness of 14.0mm. This is a decent thickness that provides reasonable resistance to wear and tear, ensuring it can handle foot traffic and the weight of furniture and equipment. However, if you are expecting to store heavy equipment or plan on placing a lot of weight on the floor, you may want to consider reinforcing it further.
Q: Can you tell me about the eaves height and what that means for interior space?
A: The eaves height of this garden building is set at 1600mm. This height is fairly standard and provides enough headroom for average-sized individuals to move around comfortably inside. It also allows for storage of taller items without crouching, but very tall individuals may find themselves a bit limited in terms of movement, particularly in the apex area.
Q: What type of roof material is used, and how does it perform?
A: The roof is made from sand felt, which is a common roofing material for garden buildings. It's fairly lightweight and typically offers reasonable weather resistance. However, it may require periodic maintenance to ensure it remains watertight, especially in harsher weather conditions. If longevity and minimal upkeep are high on your list, you might consider opting for a building with a more durable roofing material.
Q: What is the frame thickness, and why should I care?
A: The frame thickness is 28.0mm. A thicker frame generally means a sturdier structure that can withstand the elements better and offer enhanced durability over time. This is especially important in areas with extreme weather conditions. A robust frame can also contribute to improved insulation, keeping your space more comfortable regardless of the time of year.
Q: What is the overall weight of the product, and how might that affect placement?
A: The product weighs 91.8kg, making it relatively manageable for transport and installation. However, it also means that proper foundation and anchorage are essential to secure it in place, particularly in windy areas. This weight can add to its stability once installed, but make sure you have the right setup for a long-lasting garden building.
Q: Is there any information about windows included with this product?
A: Unfortunately, there isn't specific information available regarding window sizes or features for this garden building. If natural light and ventilation are priorities for you, I recommend checking if there are options to include windows or if they can be added later, as this can significantly enhance the usability and comfort of the space.
