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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 12 x 13ft Poppy Raised Wooden Playhouse including Swing & Slide
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
Review of the Mercia 12 x 13ft Poppy Raised Wooden Playhouse including Swing & Slide
The Mercia 12 x 13ft Poppy Raised Wooden Playhouse represents an engaging option in the world of children’s play structures, combining both fun and functionality. With an apex roof style and crafted from durable tongue and groove cladding, this playhouse is built to last and designed to delight. As parents, we know how important it is to provide our little ones with a safe, exciting space to play, and this product stands out as a commendable choice in the playhouse category.
Key Features
Dimensions: The playhouse measures 12′ x 13′, offering ample space for children to explore and engage in imaginative play. Its height of 2470mm (8 feet) aligns perfectly with typical playhouse standards, ensuring it fits comfortably in most gardens without overwhelming the space.
Construction Quality: Rated highly by our experts, this playhouse scores a solid 4 out of 5 on material quality. The choice of European softwood for the base material ensures a robust structure that can withstand the rigours of active play. The use of tongue & groove cladding not only adds to its durability but also enhances its aesthetic appeal, given that this method is widely regarded as one of the best forms of wall construction.
Roofing: The apex roof design is an appealing feature that allows for better water drainage while also adding a charming touch. The roofing is covered with mineral felt, which is a preferred choice in 88% of the top playhouses we analysed, illustrating its effectiveness and reliability in outdoor settings.
Window Protection: The playhouse is equipped with three styrene windows that provide ample natural light without sacrificing safety. This glazing option is noted for its robustness, making it a popular choice amongst top-tier playhouses.
Ease of Assembly and Maintenance
With a construction ease rating of 4 out of 5, the Mercia playhouse does not present any significant challenges for assembly. Parents and guardians will likely find the building process straightforward, with clear instructions provided. The playhouse is dip treated, a treatment process that helps to protect the wood from rot, ensuring you won’t have to spend summer weekends on maintenance chores.
Value for Money
While the playhouse is priced competitively at £1,250 through retailers like Wickes, it does score slightly lower for value for money (3 out of 5) when compared to other products in its category. You will find it still holds a commendable position in terms of expert score, which is 75/100—just above the average for similar products.
Comparison and Market Placement
According to our extensive analyses, this model ranks in the top tier of playhouses within its size category. Among the 188 playhouses evaluated, it stands at an impressive 75th position, marking a strong market presence, with a movement of +34 positions, underscoring its increasing popularity.
For parents exploring alternatives with similar specifications, the Mercia 12 x 13ft Poppy Raised Wooden Playhouse clearly offers incentives like its above-average expert scores and solid overall construction. While the market includes more affordable options, few competitors match the blend of durability, design, and safety features this playhouse brings.
Conclusion
In summary, the Mercia 12 x 13ft Poppy Raised Wooden Playhouse including Swing & Slide is an outstanding investment for any garden. With its sturdy construction, thoughtful design features, and overall high-quality materials, it promises countless hours of imaginative play for your children. If you value quality and safety in children’s play equipment, this playhouse is undoubtedly worth considering for your family.
We encourage parents to weigh the playhouse’s attributes alongside personal needs and budget considerations, but we firmly believe it presents a worthy option for creating a magical backyard space.
Product Details
Q: How many doors does this playhouse have, and is it advantageous?
A: This playhouse features an additional door, making a total of two entrances. This design is particularly advantageous as it promotes better airflow during play, allows for easier access for children running in and out, and enhances the overall play experience. I find it makes supervision easier for parents while giving kids the space they need to create their own adventures without feeling cramped.
Q: What type of glazing material is used for the windows, and how does it affect safety?
A: The playhouse is equipped with styrene glazing, which is a type of shatter-resistant plastic. I appreciate this feature because it enhances safety for children, reducing the risk of injury from broken glass compared to traditional glass windows. Styrene also provides decent insulation and clarity, making it a wise choice for a play environment.
Q: What is the roofing material of the playhouse, and does it offer durability?
A: The roofing is covered with mineral felt, known for its durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions. In my experience, mineral felt is a reliable choice as it prevents water from penetrating and protects the structure from moisture-related issues. It’s a significant benefit for long-term use, especially if your playhouse is exposed to the elements.
Q: Is the playhouse provided with any finish, and does this matter?
A: The playhouse comes unpainted, which offers a blank canvas for personalisation. Personally, I find this appealing as it allows both children and parents to get creative. However, it does mean that you'll need to consider weatherproofing and painting it yourself to prolong its lifespan, which could be a factor in ongoing maintenance planning.
Q: What are the dimensions of the playhouse, and how does that impact usability?
A: The playhouse measures approximately 3950 mm in width, 3580 mm in depth, and stands 2470 mm tall, providing a spacious environment for play. For families with multiple children or for playdates, these dimensions contribute significantly to usability. I think this space allows for a variety of activities—whether that be playing pretend or setting up games, it’s a fantastic area for imaginative play.
Q: How much does the playhouse weigh, and is that a consideration for installation?
A: Weighing in at 300 kg, this playhouse is substantial enough to withstand storms and playful children's antics, which is a reassurance in terms of stability and safety. However, it also means that you’ll want to ensure a proper foundation is in place. From my perspective, the weight indicates quality construction, but for installation, it’s worth noting that help might be needed due to its heft.
Q: Does the playhouse require an assembly service?
A: No assembly service is required for this playhouse, which is a great feature for those who prefer a DIY approach. I appreciate this self-assembly option, as it gives you control over the process and can also save on costs. However, ensure you have the necessary tools and some friends to assist, as it might require a bit of teamwork to complete the assembly efficiently!
Q: Is the playhouse certified, and why is that important?
A: Yes, this playhouse is EN71 certified, meaning it meets European safety standards for toys, which is particularly important when it comes to children's products. This certification provides an extra layer of assurance regarding safety in terms of materials and structural integrity. As a parent or guardian, this peace of mind is invaluable and can guide you in making a responsible choice for child-focused purchases.
