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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 7 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse & Tower 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: 169607
Size: 7' x 5'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Mercia 7 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse & Tower with Assembly
If you’re on the lookout for a delightful outdoor space for your children to unleash their creativity, the Mercia 7 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse & Tower is a standout option that deserves your attention. With a blend of functionality, aesthetics, and safety, this playhouse promises an exciting play environment that kids will adore.
Overview
This charming playhouse was designed with children in mind. Crafted using high-quality European softwood, it boasts a generous 7′ x 5′ space that allows for ample playroom. The apex style roofing not only adds visual appeal but also ensures effective water drainage, a thoughtful feature especially during rainy days.
Materials and Construction Quality
When considering playhouses, material quality plays a pivotal role in longevity and safety. The Poppy Playhouse excels in this department:
- Cladding: Made from tongue & groove timber, this construction method is widely regarded as one of the best for playhouses. It enhances the structural stability and is known to offer better insulation compared to other methods.
- Protection: The playhouse undergoes a dip treatment, ensuring protection against the elements and prolonging its lifespan. This treatment is prevalent among 82% of the best quality playhouses in our analysis.
- Roofing: Equipped with mineral felt, the roofing material is featured on 88% of top-tier playhouses, ensuring durability against rain and harsh weather.
- Windows: The playhouse includes three styrene glazed windows, which are both lightweight and shatterproof, offering an added layer of safety while allowing light into the structure.
Ease of Construction
We were pleased to discover that this playhouse scores a commendable 4.5 out of 5 for ease of assembly. Many customers rave about how straightforward the assembly process is, making it a rewarding experience for parents. Comprehensive instructions are provided, which guides you step-by-step, leaving no room for confusion.
Market Position and Value
In terms of market competition, the Mercia Poppy Playhouse stands out not just in quality but pricing. At a retail price of £880 from Wickes, the playhouse is positioned reasonably against its competitors, scoring above average for value relative to its features. It holds an Expert Score that is 4% higher than the average among similar specifications in the Playhouses category.
Pros and Cons
While we admire many features of the Mercia Wooden Poppy Playhouse, it’s essential to consider both sides:
- Pros:
- High-quality tongue & groove cladding for durability.
- Excellent safety features with styrene windows.
- Kit includes assembly instructions, making it easy to put together.
- Appealing design enhances any garden space.
- Cons:
- Does not include a floor, which could be a consideration based on the play area’s use.
- Some users may find the price point higher compared to simpler models.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Mercia 7 x 5ft Wooden Poppy Playhouse & Tower stands out as a high-quality investment for any family looking to enrich their children’s outdoor playtime experiences. With expert scores of 4 for material quality, construction, and an impressive ease of assembly score, it’s clear that this playhouse packs in plenty of value. We really appreciate the thoughtful design features, and knowing it meets EN71 Certification means it adheres to strict safety standards.
Ultimately, this playhouse isn’t just a pretty exterior; it’s a well-rounded product that offers your children a safe, durable, and fun place to play, and we’re certain they’ll cherish it for years to come.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the playhouse, and how does that affect its usability?
A: The playhouse has a height of 2470 mm, a width of 2330 mm, and a depth of 1980 mm. These dimensions provide a spacious environment for children to play freely while ensuring it can fit comfortably into most garden spaces. It's crucial to consider the height, especially if you're looking for a structure that allows for headroom and play without feeling cramped. This playhouse strikes a good balance, making it an excellent choice for families with younger children.
Q: Is the playhouse sturdy enough for outdoor use?
A: Weighing in at 220 kg, this playhouse is relatively solid and should withstand the elements better than lighter alternatives. However, keep in mind that an assembly service is required. If you're not experienced in assembling such structures, hiring a professional is advisable to ensure stability and safety. Proper installation during assembly can significantly enhance its durability and longevity.
Q: What materials are used for the playhouse's roof and windows?
A: The roof is covered with mineral felt, which is effective for protecting the playhouse from rain and moisture, thus preventing rot and decay over time. On the other hand, the windows are made of styrene, a plastic glazing material that is durable and shatter-resistant, which is particularly beneficial for children's safety. However, styrene can scratch more easily than glass, so it may require occasional replacement as it ages. Balancing these materials contributes to the overall functionality and safety of the playhouse.
Q: Does the playhouse require any finishing, and how does that impact the overall look?
A: The playhouse comes unpainted, giving you the flexibility to finish it according to your taste. While this allows for a customised appearance, it also means that you'll need to invest time and potentially money into painting or staining the wood to enhance its aesthetic appeal and protect it against the weather. If you enjoy DIY projects and personalising your surroundings, this feature could be seen as a benefit. However, for those who prefer a ready-to-use product, this might feel like an added chore.
Q: What is the playhouse's certification, and why does it matter?
A: This playhouse comes with EN71 certification, a crucial accreditation for toys and play equipment in the UK. This certification indicates that the playhouse meets strict safety standards and is safe for children to use. This peace of mind is vital for parents like me, as it demonstrates that the manufacturer takes safety seriously.
Q: How much external area does the playhouse cover?
A: The external area coverage of the playhouse is 4.61 m². This is a significant footprint for a playhouse, allowing children to engage in different forms of play without feeling restricted. However, it's important to consider your available garden space before purchasing, ensuring that it doesn't overcrowd your outdoor area. Adequate space around the structure is essential for safe play and ease of access.
Q: Is there an additional door, and how does that enhance functionality?
A: Yes, the playhouse includes an additional door. This feature is incredibly beneficial as it enhances accessibility, allowing for multiple entry and exit points during play. It not only adds to the playhouse's functionality but also encourages imaginative play and can facilitate group play among children, making it a dynamic addition to your garden.
