EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Hartwood 7′ x 7′ Sutton Summer House
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 41 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: BUNDLE-OPASUM77MHD
Size: 7' x 6'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Review of the Hartwood 7′ x 7′ Sutton Summer House
When looking for a summer house, you want a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and durability. Today, we dive into the details of the Hartwood 7′ x 7′ Sutton Summer House, which stands under the main category of Summer Houses but also fits into various subcategories including Small Summer Houses and Cheap Summer Houses. This product comes in with a classic apex roof design, making it an appealing choice for garden spaces.
Key Features and Specifications
- Dimensions: 7′ x 6′
- Roof Style: Apex
- Cladding Type: Overlap Board
- Protection Treatment: Pressure Treated
- Door Type: Double Door
- Windows: 8
- Material Guarantee: 15 Years
- Quality of Materials: 2.5/5
- Quality of Construction: 3.5/5
- Ease of Construction: 4/5
- Value for Money: 4.5/5
Manufacturer’s Description
The manufacturer touts the Sutton Summer House as a charming addition to any garden. The apex styled roof not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also ensures better rainwater runoff. With double doors making for easy access, and 8 strategically placed windows crafted from 2mm acrylic, this summer house aims to blend light and space. Notably, it employs pressure-treated solid wood for added protection against the elements.
Your Investment in Quality
While the summer house sports a solid profile, it is important to examine its build quality and material specifics. With the overlap board siding, it falls on the lower end of the quality spectrum based on market analysis, recording a mere 2.5 out of 5 for material quality. This type of cladding is often weaker compared to alternatives like tongue and groove, which were not found in our top 74 summer house selections.
Roof and Flooring Analysis
The roof, constructed with OSB, is considered one of the more reliable materials for this segment, earning a higher score relative to other components. With a thickness of 8mm, it lags slightly behind competitors but still rates well in terms of performance. The standout feature here is the floor, which at 16mm thick, boasts one of the best ratings available for 7′ x 6′ summer houses, providing a stable foundation.
Window Quality and Security
Turning our attention to the windows, Hartwood opts for acrylic glazing. Unfortunately, this material ranks poorly when compared to other options such as toughened glass. The 2mm thickness similarly underwhelms as it is among the thinnest options available, providing less insulation and potential vulnerability in adverse weather conditions.
Market Standing
In a competitive landscape of 1,188 summer houses, the Sutton Summer House occupies a rather uninspiring position ranked 574th. While the price point at £869 is better than some, it is essential to weigh it against its performance and potential alternatives. For example, the Loxley 7′ x 7′ Grasmere Summer House can be obtained for £694, presenting a higher Expert Score of 87 — a potential wise investment if you’re looking for higher quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hartwood 7′ x 7′ Sutton Summer House is a decent option for garden enthusiasts seeking affordable yet eye-catching aesthetics. If you’re looking for essential features like good design and easy access, this summer house could serve you well. However, if long-term durability and quality are paramount to you, we suggest exploring higher scoring alternatives. Make sure to consider your specific needs and local weather conditions for the best choice in your garden enhancement.
Expert Recommendations
If value and performance are your goals, consider these noteworthy alternatives:
- Best Value: Loxley 7′ x 7′ Grasmere Summer House – £694 with a score of 87/100.
- Highest Expert Score: Oren 6′ x 8′ Shiplap Binton Summer House – £1,309 with a score of 92/100.
As always, ensure to match the summer house with your garden’s needs, considering factors like climate and intended use, for the best longevity and satisfaction in your purchase.
Product Details
Q: What material is used for the floor of this product, and what are the benefits?
A: The floor is made from 16mm OSB (Oriented Strand Board), which provides a robust and stable base. OSB is known for its durability and resistance to warping, compared to other materials like plywood. It offers good insulation properties, helping to keep the interior warm during colder months. However, note that OSB can absorb moisture if not properly protected, so ensuring the structure is maintained and kept dry will be crucial.
Q: How does the glazing material affect the overall performance of the building?
A: The product features 2mm single-glazed acrylic for its glazing material. Acrylic is lighter and more impact-resistant than traditional glass, offering a degree of safety and durability. However, one drawback is that single glazing doesn't provide the same level of insulation as double or triple glazing, which can lead to heat loss. For those seeking enhanced energy efficiency, it may be worth considering upgrading to more insulated glazing options in the future.
Q: What should I know about the roofing material and its impact on longevity?
A: The roof is constructed with 8mm OSB and is covered with sand felt. This combination provides decent weather resistance, but sand felt may require regular maintenance to ensure it remains watertight. OSB adds structural strength to the roof, but like the floor, care must be taken to prevent moisture ingress, as this can compromise the material over time. If long-lasting performance is your goal, consider applying waterproofing sealant as an extra precaution.
Q: Is the assembly process straightforward for this building?
A: The assembly of this building is recommended for two persons, which suggests that while it’s manageable, the process may be slightly more complex than solo assembly. Having a second set of hands can certainly streamline the process and help ensure that components are aligned correctly. It’s advisable to set aside a day for assembly, particularly for those who may not have extensive DIY experience.
Q: What are the door dimensions, and do they offer easy access?
A: The door dimensions are 1650mm in height and 1120mm in width, providing ample access for most users. This is beneficial for moving items in and out easily, whether you're using the space for storage or as a garden retreat. However, if you're planning on storing larger equipment or furniture, double-check the dimensions of your items to ensure they will fit comfortably through the door.
Q: How does the height and eaves height of the building affect usability?
A: The overall height of this building is 2220mm, with an eaves height of 1630mm. This design allows for reasonable headroom without feeling cramped, making it a comfortable space to use. If you’re planning on using it as a workshop or leisure space, this height provides adequate room for shelves or work surfaces. However, users over 6 feet tall may have to duck a little at the eaves, so keep your usage needs in mind when considering this purchase.
Q: What eco-friendly features does this product offer?
A: The building holds a certification for sustainable materials, indicating a commitment to environmentally conscious manufacturing. This is a significant benefit for eco-minded consumers, as it reassures you that your purchase is contributing to sustainability. However, it's worth exploring what specific practices were employed to earn this accreditation, as understanding this can help gauge the overall environmental impact of your investment.
