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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 12 x 8ft Large Garden Room including Side Shed & Bi-Fold Doors 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: 178187
Size: 12' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Mercia 12 x 8ft Large Garden Room with Side Shed & Bi-Fold Doors
The Mercia 12 x 8ft Large Garden Room is a versatile addition to any garden, designed to provide not just extra storage, but a welcoming space for relaxation or face-to-face meetings. With its unique combination of a side shed and stunning bi-fold doors, this summer house encapsulates modern garden living. Let’s dive into its features, quality, and how it stands against competitor offerings.
Product Overview
- Category: Summer Houses
- Subcategories:
- Roof Style: Pent
- Cladding: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Treatment: Dip Treated
- Door Type: Bi-Fold Door
- Brand: Mercia
- Dimensions: 12′ x 8′
- Windows: 2
Construction Quality
Upon assessing the materials and build of this summer house, our expert panel scored it as follows:
- Quality of Materials: 3/5
- Quality of Construction: 3.5/5
- Ease of Construction: 5/5
- Value for Money: 4/5
The Mercia 12 x 8ft Large Garden Room is constructed using FSC certified European softwood, offering a sustainable option for eco-conscious buyers. The shiplap tongue and groove cladding is a standout feature, known for its effective interlocking design that helps in maintaining warmth and longevity. Measuring at 12mm thick, it is comparable to around 92% of top performers in this category, providing a solid feel and robustness against the elements.
Roofing and Durability
This garden room is equipped with a mineral felt roof covering, which ranks amongst the top choices for summer houses according to our experts. It provides good weather resistance and contributes to the overall durability. The dip treatment offers some protection against rot, ensuring that your investment can withstand the test of time, especially with 70% of similar models opting for this protective treatment.
Windows and Light
Two styrene-glazed windows are integrated into the design, allowing ample light while maintaining a reasonable level of safety. However, while styrene is affordable and lightweight, it does score lower compared to alternative glazing options available in the market. In fact, our analysis shows that only 1% of top-rated summer houses use styrene, making it a point of consideration for potential buyers who may prioritize security and insulation.
Market Positioning
An interesting aspect to note is its position within the wider market of summer houses. This product currently holds the 518th rank out of 1188 similar products, indicating it operates within a competitive sphere but has potential for improvement. The lower-than-average Expert Score of 77, with pricing set at £2,800 from Wickes, places it as a budget-friendly option compared to other summer houses that might offer higher expert scores.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Mercia 12 x 8ft Large Garden Room has many redeeming features, it’s essential to address areas that could be seen as drawbacks. The usage of styrene windows might not satisfy those looking for the highest security. Moreover, the overall quality of materials scored moderately, which might not appeal to buyers seeking luxurious finishes and exceptional longevity.
Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?
In summary, the Mercia 12 x 8ft Large Garden Room including Side Shed & Bi-Fold Doors hits the mark for those looking for a functional, budget-friendly solution in garden architecture. Its combination of a modern aesthetic, practicality, and decent durability places it as a strong contender within its category. With an excellent ease of construction score, it’s also a great option for DIY enthusiasts or those seeking minimal hassle upon setup. However, if you prioritize high security or top-tier materials, you may want to explore other options available.
Ultimately, whether you’re looking for a serene spot to unwind or a versatile workspace, this garden room could be just the solution to enrich your outdoor experience.
Product Details
Q: How many doors does the summerhouse come with, and what is the advantage of this feature?
A: This summerhouse includes four additional doors, which is quite impressive. From my experience, having multiple entry points allows for improved ventilation and accessibility. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply enjoying a tranquil retreat, you can easily access your space from different angles. It also makes moving furniture or garden tools in and out easier, adding to the overall functionality of the building.
Q: What type of glazing material is used for the windows, and how does it affect durability?
A: The product uses styrene for its glazing material. Styrene is known for being shatter-resistant and lightweight, making it a safe choice, especially in environments where children or pets may be present. However, it's worth noting that styrene may not offer the same clarity and long-term durability as glass. If you prioritise durability and clarity, you might want to consider alternative options, but for casual garden use, styrene is usually sufficient.
Q: What kind of roof covering does this summerhouse feature?
A: The summerhouse is fitted with a mineral felt roof covering. This option is well-regarded in the industry for its water-resistant properties, which can help protect the structure from rain and moisture damage. The installation is relatively straightforward and offers a cost-effective solution. However, keep in mind that it may require maintenance and periodic replacement over time to ensure the roof remains watertight.
Q: What are the dimensions of the summerhouse, and how do they impact usability?
A: The summerhouse measures 2535mm in depth, 3648mm in width, and a height of 2162mm. These dimensions create a spacious interior that is ideal for a variety of uses, whether for relaxation, hobbies, or storage. The generous width particularly allows for an open feeling, making it comfortable for multiple people to gather. However, if your garden space is limited, be sure to consider the footprint before making a decision, as this summerhouse does require adequate clearance around its exterior.
Q: Is assembly service included, and what should I consider before purchasing?
A: Yes, an assembly service is required for this summerhouse. This means you will either need to hire professionals or enlist help from experienced friends or family to set it up correctly. While this may add an extra layer of convenience for some, it can also be a drawback if you prefer a DIY approach or wish to save on additional costs. Ensure to factor in this assembly service when budgeting for your new garden building.
Q: What does it mean that the summerhouse is FSC® Certified?
A: The FSC® Certification signifies that the timber used in this summerhouse has been sourced sustainably, meaning that it comes from responsibly managed forests. From an expert’s perspective, this accreditation is a significant benefit as it not only promotes environmental welfare but also ensures that the structure is built from high-quality materials. This can increase the overall longevity of your summerhouse, making it a more worthwhile investment.
