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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 5ft x 6ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 10 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 633127
Size: 5' x 6'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Mercia 5ft x 6ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse Review
When it comes to choosing the perfect playhouse for your children, you want a structure that combines durability, safety, and fun. The Mercia 5ft x 6ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse fits the bill well, boasting a compact design suitable for smaller gardens while promising hours of imaginative play. Let’s delve into the ins and outs of this playhouse to see if it is the right fit for your backyard.
Overview
The Mercia Honeysuckle playhouse features an apex style roof and is made from quality shiplap tongue & groove cladding, complemented by a dip treated finish to protect the wood from the elements. Recognised for its sturdy construction, the playhouse also comes with a generous 10-year guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for parents. Measuring 5′ x 6′ and equipped with two windows made from styrene glazing, this playhouse promises both practicality and charm.
Key Features
- Apex Roof: Provides excellent drainage and is designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring your playhouse remains intact throughout the seasons.
- Shiplap Tongue & Groove Cladding: This type of construction is commonly preferred among playhouses for durability and aesthetic appeal; about 47% of the top-rated models sport similar assembly.
- Dip Treated Finish: Significantly contributes to the longevity of the playhouse as it protects the wood from moisture damage; a method used in 82% of the top 10% of playhouses surveyed.
- Styrene Windows: Known for safety, styrene is a robust glazing option, utilized in 94% of our top-rated playhouses, ensuring your kids can peacefully enjoy the inside while keeping an eye on the garden.
Materials and Construction Quality
In rating the quality of materials, we gave the Mercia Honeysuckle a score of 3.5 out of 5. The use of shiplap tongue & groove cladding contributes positively to its overall sturdiness and aesthetic. While the thickness of the walls is standard at 12mm, this thickness ranks average among its peers. We assess the ease of construction to be commendable, earning a score of 4.5, largely due to clear assembly instructions that come with the playhouse.
Market Comparison
In a market saturated with various playhouses, the Mercia Honeysuckle holds its own. It currently ranks at position 115 out of 188 playhouses analyzed, showing that it remains competitive among similar structures. However, it could be noted that it is priced at approximately £1,290, which is about £44 more than the average for similar products. The Expert Score of 75 is notably lower than many alternatives.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Solid construction with shiplap tongue & groove cladding.
- Dip treated for longevity and durability.
- Stylishly designed with an apex roof and multiple windows for light.
- Comes with a 10-year guarantee.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some competing models.
- Scores slightly lower on material quality than some alternatives.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, the Mercia 5ft x 6ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse is an attractive choice for parents seeking a reliable and stylish playhouse for their children. While it does command a higher price point, its construction quality, coupled with the peace of mind that comes with a decade-long guarantee, make it worth considering.
For families in high wind areas or those requiring additional safety measures, we recommend looking at models that offer enhanced construction features. However, for average garden settings, you’ll appreciate how this playhouse blends functionality with playful design. If you’re ready to give your children their very own outdoor sanctuary, the Mercia Honeysuckle is a solid contender in the realm of wooden playhouses.
Where to Buy
You can find the Mercia Honeysuckle Playhouse available through HomeBase at a price of £1,290.00.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Mercia Honeysuckle Playhouse?
A: The Mercia Honeysuckle Playhouse measures 5ft x 6ft externally, with internal dimensions of approximately 1626mm x 1705mm and a height of 1695mm. This size makes it a compact choice for gardens with limited space, while still providing ample room for children to play indoors.
Q: Is the timber used in this playhouse of good quality?
A: Yes, the playhouse is constructed from PEFC Certified Timber, meaning that the wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests. Additionally, it has been EN71 Safety Tested, ensuring it meets stringent safety standards for children's products. This commitment to quality and sustainability offers peace of mind for parents, as they know their children are playing in a safe environment.
Q: How does the playhouse need to be maintained?
A: It's essential to treat the wood with a wood preservative once installed and to apply a wood protection top coat annually. While this maintenance may seem daunting, it is crucial for prolonging the lifespan of the playhouse and maintaining its appearance over time. As an expert, I recommend setting a reminder each year to carry out this important upkeep.
Q: Can I assemble the playhouse myself?
A: Yes, self-assembly is required, and the assembly instructions are included with the product. However, it’s advised to have two people for the installation, especially considering the playhouse weighs 107kg. While some DIY enthusiasts may relish the challenge, this recommendation helps ensure safety and accuracy during assembly.
Q: Is a base included with the playhouse?
A: No, a base is not included with the Mercia Honeysuckle Playhouse. This is a drawback if you are not prepared to construct a stable foundation prior to installation. A solid base is vital to ensure the playhouse remains stable and safe for children, so this is something to consider along with your purchase.
Q: What types of windows does this playhouse feature?
A: The playhouse uses styrene glazing for its windows. This material is a safer alternative to glass, as it is less likely to shatter and poses a minimal risk to children. However, while it is durable, it may not provide the same level of clarity as glass, which is a consideration if natural sunlight is a priority for your children's playtime experience.
Q: What other features does the playhouse include?
A: The Mercia Honeysuckle Playhouse comes complete with a floor, felt for roofing, all necessary fixings, and detailed assembly instructions. This all-inclusive package means you won’t need to purchase extra materials, making it a more convenient option for parents starting a garden play space.
Q: How is the playhouse delivered?
A: The delivery service is a one-man kerbside drop-off, meaning you will need to arrange for someone to help move it to your desired location in the garden. Mercia GP contacts you to arrange the delivery, so plan ahead to ensure someone is available to receive the package.
Q: Is the roof type and covering any good?
A: The playhouse boasts a mineral felt roof covering, which provides initial protection against rain. This is a standard feature, but you should keep in mind that, like the timber, the roof should be maintained to ensure durability over time. From an expert perspective, consider reinforcing the roof with additional waterproofing to enhance its longevity.
