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Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide and Swing

First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 8 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1

Product ID: SKU: 633122

Size: 0' x 0'

Merchants Checked: 12

Available From: 1

HomeBase
£1,245.00
See Deal

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80
Good Ranked in the Top 47% of Playhouses.
Position 87 of 188 Playhouses - Down 16 places from previous update.
Quality of materials
Construction quality
Ease of construction
Value for money

See how our panel of industry experts helped create the impartial judging criteria used to calculate the Expert Score.

In-Depth Review of the Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide, and Swing

For families looking to enhance their outdoor play area, the Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide, and Swing offers an enticing blend of fun and functionality. Designed for children, this playhouse brings forth creativity, adventure, and a safe space to play, all packaged within a robust structure. Having analyzed its features, construction quality, and overall market positioning, we aim to provide you with a detailed look at this popular product.

Product Overview

This playhouse is classified under the Playhouses category and captures attention with its apex roofline coupled with a vibrant aesthetic. Notably, the playhouse also falls under subcategories such as Wendy House and Wooden Playhouses, making it a versatile option for different outdoor setups.

Construction & Materials

The Mercia Tulip Playhouse is constructed primarily from shiplap tongue & groove cladding, ensuring durability and a classic finish. This type of cladding is noted for being one of the best materials available for playhouse walls. Expert analysis indicates that it’s used in approximately 59% of similar-sized playhouses, aligning with the product’s robust market presence. For your peace of mind, this product is built with PEFC certified timber, assuring you of its sustainable sourcing.

Additionally, the playhouse is dip treated, affording it a necessary layer of protection against the elements. While we appreciate this treatment option, regular maintenance is necessary, including yearly applications of wood preservative and waterproof topcoat to prolong its lifespan.

Roofing and Windows

One of the standout features of the Tulip Playhouse is its roof, covered with durable mineral felt. Our data reveals that this roofing material is commonly used and is considered high-quality, being a choice found in 88% of the top contenders in this category. Moreover, the playhouse includes styrene windows, a fantastic feature as they are virtually shatterproof and offer excellent safety for children while still allowing ample light to filter in.

Size and Dimensions

The Mercia Tulip measures 12ft x 13ft overall, providing ample internal space for bustling play and relaxation. Its external dimensions stand at (H)2470 x (W)3722 x (D)3865mm, while the internal height and width of (H)1458 x (W)1410 x (D)1177mm create a sizable, inviting atmosphere for kids to enjoy. With a weight of 186 kg, this structure is substantial enough for stability yet manageable for assembly.

Expert Ratings

In our detailed assessment, we have established scores based on various parameters:

  • Quality of Materials: 3.5/5 – While the cladding is notably robust, the dip treatment could be improved.
  • Quality of Construction: 4/5 – Mostly well-constructed, offering a safe play environment.
  • Ease of Construction: 5/5 – Designed for straightforward assembly, with all necessary components included.
  • Value for Money: 3.5/5 – Priced around £1,245 from HomeBase, this playhouse represents a solid investment for families.

Market Positioning

When looking at its standing in relation to the competition, the Mercia Tulip Playhouse currently occupies the 87th position among 188 playhouses reviewed, suggesting a competitive edge. It exhibits a score that is approximately 10% higher than the average for similar models, showcasing its quality and appeal in a crowded market.

We compare this playhouse against several competitors, and while it is priced slightly higher, the additional features – particularly the integrated tower, slide, and swing – make it a standout choice that justifies the cost. If budget is a crucial element for you, consider more economical options like the Mercia 4ft11in x 4ft11in Tulip Wooden Playhouse, which offers significant savings yet maintains a reasonable level of quality.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse is an excellent investment for families seeking outdoor play solutions for their children. Its thoughtful design, quality materials, and ample features foster a playful environment that kids will love. While routine maintenance is key to ensuring longevity, the playhouse’s assembly is user-friendly, allowing parents to quickly set it up for immediate enjoyment.

We strongly recommend considering this playhouse if you’re on the lookout for something that provides both a fun space for play and a durable structure in your garden. It’s an impressive addition to any yard and could very well become the heart of summertime adventures!

Product Details

Building Type
Playhouse On Stilts, Playhouses, Playhouses With Slides, Small Wooden Playhouses, Wendy Houses, Wooden Playhouses
Metric Size (Meters)
0' x 0'
Material
Wooden
Roof Style
Apex
Number of Windows
1
Cladding Type
Shiplap Tongue & Groove
Treatment Type
Dip Treated
Guarantee
10 Years

Q: What are the dimensions of the Mercia Tulip Playhouse with Tower?

A: The Mercia Tulip Playhouse has external dimensions of 2470 x 3722 x 3865 mm and internal dimensions of 1458 mm in height, 1410 mm in width, and 1177 mm in depth. This size is ideal for a playhouse, providing ample space for children to play while fitting nicely into a typical garden layout.

Q: Is the Mercia Tulip Playhouse safe for children?

A: Yes, this playhouse is EN71 Safety Tested, ensuring that it meets the stringent safety standards required for children's play equipment. Additionally, it features PEFC Certified Timber, which means you can be assured of sustainable sourcing. However, as an expert, I do recommend regular safety checks to maintain its integrity over time.

Q: What materials are used in the construction of this playhouse?

A: The playhouse is made from shiplap timber and features a durable tongue-and-groove floor, providing a sturdy and robust structure for children to play in. The roof is covered with mineral felt, which adds protection against the elements, making it a practical choice for outdoor use.

Q: Do I need to treat the playhouse after installation?

A: Yes, it's important to treat the playhouse with a wood preservative and waterproof top coat once installed and annually thereafter. This maintenance is crucial for prolonging the life of the timber and maintains its appearance. In my opinion, this is a worthwhile investment in ensuring that the playhouse remains safe and looking good for years to come.

Q: Is assembly required for the Mercia Tulip Playhouse?

A: Yes, self-assembly is required for this product. The assembly instructions are included, and it is highly recommended to have two people for installation to ensure that it is put together safely and correctly. From my experience, enlisting a friend or family member can make the process a lot more manageable and enjoyable.

Q: What kind of delivery service should I expect?

A: The delivery is supported by a one-man kerbside service. Mercia GP will contact you to arrange delivery, so it’s good to be prepared for how you'll manoeuvre the playhouse into your garden once it arrives. It's worth considering that having assistance for moving the playhouse from the kerbside to your chosen spot might be necessary, as the total weight is 186 kg.

Q: Does the playhouse come with any accessories?

A: Yes, the Mercia Tulip Playhouse comes with a slide included, adding an extra element of fun for children. However, be mindful that there are no bases included, which means you may need to prepare a flat surface for it to stand safely. I'd recommend considering the area in your garden where this could work best to maximise playtime and minimise hazards.

Joel Bird

Joel Bird

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Joel, our shed expert, won Channel 4’s Shed of the Year in 2014 and is the author of The Book of Shed. Click ‘Meet the Experts’ to learn more.

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Product ID: SKU: 633122

Size: 0' x 0'

Merchants Checked: 12

Available From: 1

HomeBase
£1,245.00
See Deal

Support WhatShed: by making a purchase after clicking a link above, a portion of the sale supports this site.