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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 12 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse including Tower & Slide with Assembly
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: 169609
Size: 12' x 5'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review: Mercia 12 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse with Tower & Slide
If you’re considering investing in a playhouse for your children, the Mercia 12 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse including Tower & Slide with Assembly certainly deserves your attention. Combining functionality and fun, this playhouse is positioned prominently within the Playhouses category and boasts versatility across various subcategories including Wendy Houses and Wooden Playhouses.
Construction and Design
The Mercia Poppy Playhouse measures 12′ x 5′ and features an apex roof style, providing both aesthetic appeal and practicality. Made from European softwood and enhanced with tongue & groove cladding, this playhouse stands out for its solid construction. Our experts rate its quality of materials at a commendable 4 out of 5, ensuring durability that can withstand the rigours of active play.
One key feature that sets this playhouse apart is how it employs a dip-treated protective process, which is prevalent among 82% of the top 10% of playhouses. This treatment allows for increased longevity, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for something that will last through years of adventures.
Roofing and Windows
The roofing is fitted with mineral felt, a material recognised for its reliability and effectiveness in protecting against the elements. With a presence in 88% of high-ranking playhouses, you’ll appreciate the assurances this brings for both maintenance and longevity. On the flip side, it’s noteworthy that only styrene is used for the playhouse’s three windows, with this glazing type being the sole option in 12′ x 5′ structures. Rated highly by experts, styrene windows minimise the risk of breakage, making this a vital safety feature for spirited children. Our experts give the quality of windows a score of 4 out of 5 as well.
Height and Space
Measuring at a total height of 2470mm (or about 8 feet), the Mercia Poppy Playhouse provides you with an impressive 253.5mm extra headroom compared to the average model in this class. This ensures that children won’t outgrow their playhouse as quickly as they might with models that offer lower ceilings.
Expert Ratings and Market Position
Our rigorous analysis has led to this playhouse receiving an overall score of 77 from our experts, placing it in the upper echelons of approximately 188 products within the Playhouses category. Specifically, it holds a ranking position of 59, indicating a solid market standing. While the product’s value for money score sits at 3.5 out of 5, it’s worth noting that you could save up to £330 by considering alternatives, as demonstrated by the 6×6 Mercia Honeysuckle Tower Playhouse.
Retail Information and Availability
Currently, you can find this expertly crafted playhouse at Wickes for £1,150. It’s important to compare prices, as we checked 12 retailers before reaching this conclusion, ensuring you’re getting the best deal possible.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Mercia 12 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse offers exceptional features that cater to fun times for children and peace of mind for parents. The robust construction, coupled with safety-conscious design elements like styrene glazing and dip-treatment, mark it as a solid contender in the playhouse market. While it may not offer the best value compared to cheaper alternatives, its high-quality materials and construction mean that this playhouse can be a delightful addition to your garden, promising years of safe play for your children.
Whether you’re looking for something versatile for summer play or sturdy enough to withstand the changing seasons, the Mercia Poppy Playhouse checks numerous boxes. So, if you can stretch your budget slightly, liking what you see here, it might truly be worth considering.
Product Details
Q: What is the overall size of the playhouse, and how does it fit in a typical garden?
A: The playhouse covers a total area of 7.82 m2 and measures 3950 mm in width and 1980 mm in depth. This size makes it a spacious option for play without overwhelming a standard garden space. It's perfect for children to explore and enjoy while still leaving room for other garden features such as plants or furniture.
Q: Is the playhouse's construction robust enough for outdoor use?
A: Weighing in at 240 kg, this playhouse is notably sturdy, which suggests that it can withstand typical outdoor conditions. However, be mindful of the roof covering, which is Mineral Felt. While this material offers decent protection against the elements, it may require periodic maintenance to ensure longevity. Generally, opting for a robust construction like this is a great choice for a playhouse.
Q: What can you tell me about the doors and accessibility?
A: The playhouse comes with an additional door, which adds to its accessibility. This is a significant advantage as it allows for easy entry and exit, ensuring that children can move freely while playing. Accessibility is a key feature in any children's play environment, keeping playtime safe and enjoyable.
Q: How important is the glazing material used in the playhouse?
A: The playhouse features Styrene glazing, which is a type of plastic. One of its benefits is that it is less likely to shatter compared to glass, making it a safer option for children. However, it's worth noting that Styrene may not provide the same level of clarity as glass over time, particularly if exposed to sunlight. Overall, it serves well for a children's playhouse where safety is paramount.
Q: Does the playhouse come painted, or will I need to finish it myself?
A: The playhouse arrives unpainted, giving you the freedom to customise it to your liking. While this might be seen as a drawback if you're looking for a ready-to-use option, I see it as a tremendous opportunity. You can match the playhouse to your garden's theme or your child's favourite colours, personalising a space that truly feels their own.
Q: Is assembly required for this playhouse, and how complicated is it?
A: Yes, the playhouse requires assembly, and it's advisable to opt for an assembly service if you're not accustomed to DIY projects. The complexity of the assembly can vary, but professional assembly ensures that it is built correctly and safely, providing peace of mind. If you're looking for a hassle-free experience, this might be something to consider seriously.
Q: What does EN71 Certified mean for this playhouse?
A: The EN71 certification indicates that the playhouse has met European safety standards for toys. This is a significant reassurance for parents, as it reflects that the playhouse is made from materials that are safe for children to interact with. I highly recommend looking for this kind of accreditation when choosing play equipment, as safety should always come first.
