EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Loxley 8′ x 6′ Chalford Summer House
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 19 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: BUNDLE-HIGH0806DSL-1AA
Size: 7' x 5'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the Loxley 8′ x 6′ Chalford Summer House
If you’re searching for the perfect outdoor retreat that combines style and functionality, the Loxley 8′ x 6′ Chalford Summer House may well pique your interest. Positioned within the Garden Rooms category, it also straddles various subcategories like Small Summer Houses and Modern Summer Houses. Equipped with a pent roof and crafted from premium materials, let’s dive into what makes this garden room a potential addition to your backyard haven.
Key Features and Construction
The Chalford Summer House boasts a robust pent style roof, ensuring excellent water runoff and preventing stagnant water accumulation—a common issue with flat-roofed designs. With measurements of 7′ x 5′, this garden room offers ample space for a variety of uses, from a peaceful sanctuary to a creative workshop.
One standout feature we appreciate is the shiplap tongue & groove cladding. This type of cladding has proven itself to be among the best for garden rooms, being used on over 78% of top-performing garden structures. The cladding thickness is a reliable 12mm, which is proven to provide good insulation and structural integrity. However, while the quality of materials earned a score of 3 out of 5, the construction quality fared slightly better at 3.5 out of 5.
The room features three styrene windows, although it must be noted that styrene is rated less favourably compared to glass, mainly due to its potential to scratch and a lower insulating value. This is an area where the room could see improvement, particularly for customers seeking enhanced thermal performance and durability.
Roofing and Flooring Dynamics
On the roofing front, the structure employs a mineral felt covering, which our experts consider one of the best roofing materials available. It not only ensures longevity but is also prevalent feature among the top-tier garden rooms. However, the underlying roofing cladding of plywood does raise concerns. Our analysis finds plywood deemed the least suitable choice for roofing in this category, as it is used only in 4% of gas analysis for similar garden rooms.
Conversely, we commend the use of tongue & groove flooring, rated as the best flooring option available. With positive statistics showing acceptance in 100% of top-tier garden rooms, and a solid reputation for durability, this feature enhances the overall value of the Chalford. This flooring option received a perfect score in its category, reaffirming its status as a dependable choice.
Doors and Windows: Accessibility and Light
The summer house is equipped with double doors, allowing for easy access and creating an inviting atmosphere. Standing at a height of 1,709mm, the doors provide sufficient clearance, coupled with a generous width of 1,365mm, making it convenient for moving in and out large items or furniture.
The addition of windows also serves to saturate the space in natural light, although we recommend considering a different type of glass for those focused on thermal efficiency and safety.
Price and Value Considerations
Pricing for the Loxley 8′ x 6′ Chalford Summer House varies by retailer, with offers ranging from approximately £1,074 to £1,415. Its pricing is notably £184 lower than the average for similar products, making it a compelling option on a budget. Considering its scores, this garden room presents itself as a good value for money, especially when you weigh the quality of the materials against its price.
Market Position and Recommendations
In the broader market context, the Chalford holds a position of 267 out of 540 products in the garden room category, placing it towards the lower mid-range. While a 6% lower than average score indicates some room for improvement in quality, its value for money score of 5/5 represents an optimised balance between cost and features.
If you are in the market for alternative options, you may wish to explore models such as the 7 x 5 Shire Lumley Superior Wooden Garden Summerhouse. Priced at only £590, this model offers an impressive Expert Score of 90, showcasing notable quality at a lower price point.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Loxley 8′ x 6′ Chalford Summer House combines style and versatility, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to enhance their garden space. While there are aspects that could benefit from refinement, especially in terms of glass quality, this summer house’s solid structure and fantastic price point make it a competitor worth considering. Whether used as a secluded retreat or a lively workspace, it is sure to serve both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Product Details
Q: What is the benefit of the additional locking system with a lock and key plus turn button?
A: The combination of a lock and key alongside a turn button provides enhanced security for my garden building. This dual locking mechanism ensures that my belongings are protected from theft, giving me peace of mind. In areas with high foot traffic, having a reliable locking system is essential, and I appreciate that this feature does not compromise on convenience while offering added protection.
Q: How does the tongue and groove floor contribute to the overall durability of the structure?
A: The tongue and groove flooring is a brilliant feature as it enhances stability and strength in the garden building. This type of flooring fits together tightly, reducing gaps that can lead to moisture problems. For anyone looking to invest in a garden building, I would strongly recommend floor materials that provide a robust, premium feel, and this specification does just that.
Q: Is toughened glass really worth it for the glazing material?
A: Absolutely! Toughened glass is several times stronger than standard glass, making it an ideal choice for safety and durability. It's designed to withstand impact, which is especially useful in a garden building where wear and tear can accumulate over time. Knowing that the windows won’t easily shatter is a huge bonus for me, adding both safety and longevity to the structure.
Q: What advantages does the mineral felt roof covering offer?
A: Mineral felt is known for its weatherproof qualities, making it an excellent choice for roofing. I appreciate that it provides reliable protection against rain and snow, which can be a concern in the UK climate. While it may not be as stylish as other options, the function it serves in safeguarding the building from leakages and damage is invaluable.
Q: What do the specified floor and roof thicknesses tell us about the product?
A: With a floor and roof thickness of 12mm, I feel reassured about the structural integrity of this garden building. Thicker materials generally indicate better insulation and stability, which is crucial for maintaining comfort year-round. For anyone planning to use the building as a year-round space, these thicknesses are a strong selling point.
Q: How does the height of the eaves and ridge impact the interior space?
A: The eaves height of 1850mm and ridge height of 2030mm create a sense of spaciousness within the building. This added height allows for a more comfortable environment, particularly for taller individuals, which I think is essential if this space is to be used for activities such as gardening or crafting. The internal ridge height of 1972mm further enhances that open feel, making effective use of the available vertical space.
Q: Are the window sizes and styles suitable for good natural lighting?
A: The full-length window style, sized at 457mm by 1692mm, allows for ample natural light, which is critical for any garden building intended for recreational or practical use. I love spaces bathed in natural light, and this design choice helps create an inviting atmosphere. It’s an essential feature for maintaining a vibrant and lively interior.
Q: Does the weight of 271 lbs (123 kgs) indicate anything significant?
A: Yes, the weight of the packaged product signifies good quality materials and sturdy construction. As a garden buildings expert, I see that heavier structures are often more stable and resistant to wind, making them more reliable for outdoor use. Although it may require some additional effort for transport and installation, the peace of mind that accompanies a solid structure is worth it.
Q: What does the internal size of the building tell us about its usability?
A: With an internal size of 1150mm by 1062mm, this garden building offers a compact yet versatile space for a variety of uses—from a garden shed to a workshop. I firmly believe that it's essential to have a well-thought-out interior layout, and this size strikes a good balance. It’s spacious enough to serve multiple purposes without feeling oversized in a smaller garden.
