EXPERT REVIEWED 
FREE DELIVERY 
INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 7 x 5ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 39 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 633140
Size: 7' x 5'
Merchants Checked: 12
In-Depth Review of the Mercia 7 x 5ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse
The Mercia 7 x 5ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse is evidently designed to capture the hearts of both children and parents alike. With an attractive apex roof and a charming facade, this playhouse doesn’t just serve as a play area; it embodies an inviting retreat in your garden. Our evaluation dives deep into the features, construction quality, and market standing of this fascinating backyard addition.
Product Overview
With external dimensions of 2407mm x 2663mm x 2224mm and featuring a total footprint of 7′ x 5′, this playhouse is spacious enough for imaginative play while fitting neatly into your garden. The product includes five windows made from styrene, which has consistently achieved positive ratings across multiple playhouse analyses.
Outstanding Features
As our experts assessed the Mercia playhouse, several standout features emerged:
- Apex Roof: The apex style roof is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, effectively shedding rainwater. This design is both a practical and popular choice, found in around 88% of top playhouses.
- Styrene Glazing: The use of styrene for glazing maximises safety and durability. An overwhelming 94% of top tier playhouses utilise this material, making it a reliable option.
- Dip Treatment: The application of a dip treatment helps the timber withstand tough weather conditions, ensuring longevity—a feature used in 82% of highly-rated playhouses.
- Shiplap Tongue & Groove Cladding: Offering enhanced insulation and sturdiness, this cladding type is noted as one of the best available. It’s a choice made by nearly 59% of similar-sized playhouses.
- Tongue & Groove Flooring: Strong and resilient, tongue & groove flooring is used on 41% of playhouses and consistently scores high in terms of durability.
Material and Build Quality
When unpacking the quality of materials, we noted the following metrics from our expert evaluations:
| Materials Used | Shiplap Tongue & Groove Cladding, Dip Treated Finish |
| Roof Type | Apex |
| Flooring Thickness | 12 mm |
| Total Windows | 5 (with styrene glazing) |
With material quality scoring a solid 3.5 out of 5, the Mercia playhouse’s construction quality fares even better at 4 out of 5. The ease of construction also rented an additional score of 4 out of 5, indicating that assembly, while requiring two individuals, is straightforward as adequate instructions are provided.
Market Position and Pricing
As we examined its performance in the market, the Mercia 7 x 5ft Double Storey Playhouse sits at 113th position out of 188 products in its category. This impressively places it within the upper echelon of playhouses as more of your options unfold. However, at a price point ranging between £920 to £1,000, it does skew toward the higher end of the spectrum.
Despite its higher cost, this product offers decent value for money with an expert score of 3.5 out of 5. Moreover, if you’re considering alternatives, options like the 6×6 Mercia Honeysuckle Children’s Wooden Garden Playhouse come highly recommended both in quality and pricing, offering a point of comparison.
Maintenance and Longevity
Longevity is paramount, and the Mercia playhouse is constructed with careful attention to ensure sturdy enduring play. Although it is dip-treated, we should not forget that annual maintenance through wood protection top coats is advised for maximising the lifespan of your playhouse. Additionally, appropriate assembly is critical; hence a two-person effort is prudent during installation.
Conclusion
In summary, the Mercia 7 x 5ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse encapsulates the essence of functional, child-friendly outdoor play with some impressive design features. While it boasts good scores in material quality, construction, and ease of assembly, the price may deter some buyers, particularly those on a tighter budget.
Ultimately, if you value aesthetics alongside functionality and are ready to invest in a quality playhouse for your children, the Mercia playhouse stands as a commendable option. For those on the lookout for alternative value or specific characteristics, it’s wise to check out comparable products mentioned above before making a decision.
Product Details
Q: What are the external dimensions of the playhouse?
A: The external dimensions of the playhouse are 2407mm in length, 2663mm in width, and 2224mm in height. This spacious design provides ample room for your children to enjoy their playtime, making it an excellent addition to your garden.
Q: What internal space can I expect in the playhouse?
A: The internal dimensions are 1921mm in length, 2000mm in width, and 1363mm in height. While this is not excessively large, it offers enough room for playful activities and fun, especially for younger children. It’s a well-sized structure that encourages imaginative play without overwhelming your garden space.
Q: Does the playhouse come with any safety certifications?
A: Yes, this playhouse is PEFC Certified Timber and has been EN71 Safety Tested. As an expert, I highly value these certifications as they ensure the product is made from sustainably sourced wood and meets stringent safety standards for children’s play equipment. You can have peace of mind knowing that your little ones are in a safe environment.
Q: Are there any specific maintenance requirements for the playhouse?
A: Definitely! Once installed, it's crucial to treat the wood with a wood preservative and finish it with a wood protection top coat annually. This ensures longevity and keeps the playhouse looking good for years to come. Neglecting this maintenance could lead to deterioration, so it’s worth considering if you're looking for a lasting product.
Q: Is assembly included with the purchase of the playhouse?
A: No, installation is not included with the purchase of the playhouse. It requires self-assembly, and I recommend that two people undertake the task to make it easier. The good news is that comprehensive assembly instructions are included, so with a bit of teamwork and patience, you should be able to set it up without too much hassle.
Q: How heavy is the playhouse, and how does that affect its stability?
A: The playhouse weighs 140 kg, which is quite substantial for a garden structure. This weight, combined with its shiplap construction type, provides good stability against winds and minor impacts. However, while it’s sturdy, it’s essential to ensure the playhouse is secured properly on a firm base to maximise its lifespan.
Q: What kind of materials are used for the floor and roof of the playhouse?
A: The floor is made from 12mm thick tongue and groove boards, which offer durability and a solid foundation for play. The roof is covered in mineral felt, protecting the structure from the elements. These materials contribute to the overall robustness of the playhouse, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enjoyment.
Q: Will the playhouse be delivered to my location?
A: Yes, delivery is included, but it’s a one-man kerbside service. This means that you will need to arrange for someone to assist in transferring the playhouse from the kerb to your desired location in the garden. Be prepared for this aspect of the delivery, especially if you are not positioned near the kerb.
Q: Does the playhouse have any windows for natural light?
A: The specifications do not provide detailed information about the windows. However, as a general recommendation, check for glazing materials and any safety glass options. Good natural light can enhance the play experience, lifting moods and encouraging outdoor activity.
Q: What is the warranty or guarantee for the playhouse?
A: Unfortunately, the provided specifications do not mention warranty details. It is advisable to inquire with the retailer regarding warranty terms to understand what coverage you have on your purchase. Investing in a playhouse is significant, and knowing your options can help safeguard your investment.
