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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide and Swing Installation Included
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: 633124
Size: 0' x 0'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide and Swing Installation Included
The Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide, and Swing Installation Included is thoughtfully designed for families looking to create a magical space for their children. Constructed with a traditional apex roof and using robust materials, this wooden playhouse is not just a hideaway but a full-fledged entertainment venue for children. What makes it noteworthy? Let us delve into its features, construction quality, and market positioning.
Main Features and Benefits
With dimensions of 12ft x 13ft, this playhouse is spacious enough to accommodate several children comfortably. The structure is made from shiplap tongue & groove cladding, providing excellent insulation and durability. One standout feature is the mineral felt roof. It’s a much-admired choice among similar products, being used in 88% of top-tier playhouses due to its ability to withstand the elements effectively.
Another significant aspect to highlight is the inclusion of styrene windows. Styrene glazing is known for its durability and safety, especially in play environments. In fact, it’s the go-to glazing type for 100% of the top 10% of playhouses featuring windows. This playhouse has a single window, cleverly designed to let in ample natural light while maintaining safety standards.
The dip-treated wood ensures an extended lifespan, requiring you to follow up with a wood preservative and waterproof coat once installed and annually thereafter. This is a small upkeep for the longevity offered, as this treatment is commonplace in 82% of the top playhouses. Interestingly, the manufacturers give a commendable 10-year warranty, exemplifying their confidence in this product’s durability.
Construction Quality
Our experts rate the quality of materials used at 3.5 out of 5, reflecting that while the materials are good, there is potential for improvement. The quality of construction scores a solid 4 out of 5, showcasing that Mercia has crafted this playhouse to withstand the vigorous play of children.
Assembly is notably straightforward, earning a perfect score of 5 for ease of construction. The installation service provided by Mercia adds convenience, taking the hassle out of getting the playhouse set up correctly. Just ensure you have a suitable base prepared beforehand, as this can significantly impact long-term performance.
Market Analysis and Expert Score
This playhouse sits in the competitive landscape of the (Playhouses) category. According to our data, it ranks 97th out of 188 products, holding a market position with a slight decline of 14 concerning other similar products. With a total score averaging 77/100 from our experts, it rates 7% higher than most comparable playhouses in its segment, though it is priced at £1,565, which is £28 above the average for playhouses of this size.
Evaluating its value for money, we give it a score of 3 out of 5. While the quality justifies the price to an extent, families on tighter budgets may wish to consider alternatives that provide similar features at a lower cost. For example, the Mercia 4ft11in x 4ft11in Tulip Wooden Playhouse comes at an impressive £815, significantly cheaper while still catering to the needs of younger children.
Comparative Options and Recommendations
If you desire the very best in terms of expert ratings, you may want to explore the Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse with Tower, Slide, which scores 80 and is priced lower at £1,245. It presents a more viable alternative if you are willing to forgo the installation service while still enjoying premium quality.
For families in coastal areas or those experiencing harsher weather conditions, considering materials designed for resilience is advisable. Metal or robust pressure-treated wood playhouses might offer better longevity and safety in such environments. For added durability against wear and tear, tougher glazing options are advisable—be sure to assess other features that suit your specific needs.
Conclusion
To summarize, while the Mercia 12ft x 13ft Tulip Playhouse stands out for its thoughtful design and high-quality features, families must weigh the expense against what the product offers. With a well-constructed playhouse that balances safety and fun, it does meet many of the expectations set for wooden playhouses. If you are looking for a special space for your kids to enjoy, this playhouse could be a worthwhile investment, especially if it fits into your budget.
Ultimately, we appreciate the craftsmanship and thought put into this playhouse. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option out there, it certainly doesn’t compromise on quality or safety, making it a strong candidate for those looking to enhance their backyard with a fantastic play feature.
Product Details
Q: What extra features come with the Mercia Tulip Playhouse with Tower?
A: This playhouse includes a slide, which adds an exciting element for your children, ensuring hours of outdoor fun. It also comes complete with a floor, felt roofing, fixings, and detailed installation instructions, making it a comprehensive package for any garden setting.
Q: What are the overall dimensions of the playhouse?
A: The Mercia Tulip Playhouse measures 12ft x 13ft externally, with internal dimensions of (H)1458mm x (W)1410mm x (D)1177mm. This spacious design allows for plenty of room for children to play and move about comfortably. However, be mindful of the area you will need for both the playhouse and the recommended clearance for upkeep.
Q: Is the playhouse safe for children?
A: Absolutely! The product is EN71 Safety Tested, which means it adheres to the highest safety standards for children's play equipment in the UK. Additionally, the timber is PEFC Certified, ensuring that the wood comes from sustainably managed forests. This layers safety into both its structure and materials, providing peace of mind for parents.
Q: What type of timber treatment does the playhouse require?
A: The playhouse is dip treated, which provides initial protection against the elements. However, it is crucial to treat it with a wood preservative and a waterproof top coat once installed and annually thereafter. I find this requirement to be a minor downside, as it necessitates ongoing maintenance to prevent decay and ensure longevity. Being proactive with treatment will extend the life of the playhouse considerably.
Q: Is installation included, and are there any preparations needed beforehand?
A: Yes, installation is included with the purchase, which is a fantastic benefit since Mercia Garden Products will take care of it. They do require that you prepare a suitable base beforehand—a firm, solid, and level base that is at least the size of the playhouse itself. Furthermore, I recommend leaving a 2-foot clearance around all sides for maintenance. Proper preparation will ensure a smooth installation process.
Q: What materials are used in the construction of the playhouse?
A: The playhouse features a shiplap construction type, enhancing durability and resistance to weather. The floor is made of 12mm tongue and groove boards, which provide a solid foundation for children’s play. It’s also worth noting that the roof is covered with mineral felt, which is designed to protect against rain and provides additional insulation.
Q: Does the playhouse include windows?
A: Yes, window openings are part of the design, but it’s important to note that the specific size and type of glazing material may not have been fully detailed. The windows are crafted from styrene, which is a safer alternative to glass, reducing the risk of breakage. However, you might want to consider this if you’re looking for more traditional aesthetics.
Q: How heavy is the playhouse?
A: Weighing in at 186 kg, this playhouse is substantial, giving it a stable foundation that can withstand the challenges of outdoor use. Its weight is indicative of good quality materials, which provides reassurance against wind and other weather conditions.
