EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber 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
In-Depth Review of the Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse
The Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse is a charming addition to any garden, offering children a delightful space for imaginative play. With an apex roof and a variety of thoughtful features, this playhouse has made a name for itself within the Playhouses category. Having examined its specifications, expert ratings, and market performance, we aim to provide a comprehensive evaluation that will help you determine if it suits your family’s needs.
Key Specifications
- Dimensions: 7′ x 7′
- Roof Type: Apex
- Cladding Material: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Window Type: 5 Styrene glazed windows
- Treatment: Dip Treated
- Brand: Mercia
- Manufacturing Guarantee: 10 Years
Build Quality and Construction
With quality ratings reflecting its construction and materials, the Mercia playhouse has received scores of 4 out of 5 for both quality of construction and ease of construction. It features a solid build quality, primarily relying on shiplap tongue & groove cladding, which is highly regarded in the market. In our analysis, we found that this cladding type is utilised in 59% of similar playhouses, indicating it’s a widely trusted option.
While it scored a modest 3.5 for quality of materials, this figure can largely be attributed to the 12mm wall thickness, which is considered average for playhouses of this size. Nevertheless, the materials used still contribute to a durable design, and we feel confident in the longevity this playhouse can provide, especially given the 10-year guarantee.
Standout Features
This playhouse comes packed with features that stand out in the current market:
- Apex Roof: The apex style roof not only adds aesthetic appeal but also aids in rainwater drainage, an important consideration for outdoor structures.
- Styrene Glazing: The 5 windows are constructed from styrene, which is known for its safety compared to traditional glass. This feature is present in 94% of the top playhouses, ensuring peace of mind for parents.
- Dip Treatment: The dip-treated process enhances resistance to rot, which is a prominent concern in wooden constructions. This treatment is used in 82% of the top 10% of playhouses, assuring buyers of the quality and durability.
- PEFC Certified Timber: The sustainable sourcing of materials is a notable feature that can appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers.
Market Position and Value for Money
Positioned at a price point of £1,400, the Mercia playhouse is slightly below the average for comparable products. Our analysis shows that it is approximately £19 less expensive than the average for its peers while having a 4% higher Expert Score than average amongst the 27 similar playhouses we evaluated. This denotes competitive positioning in the market, where quality meets affordability.
However, if you’re looking for the best value or highest-ranking score, we recommend exploring alternatives that may offer better features for a lower price. For instance, the Mercia 10 x 5ft Wooden Snug Playhouse, priced at £700, offers a superior Expert Score of 85 and significant savings.
Customer Considerations
Parents should consider the following factors when purchasing the Mercia playhouse:
- Space Requirements: With a 7′ x 7′ footprint, ensure your outdoor space can accommodate its dimensions, allowing for safe play around the structure.
- Assembly: The ease of construction rating of 4 indicates that many users can assemble this playhouse without professional help, but prepare for slight logistical challenges, especially for novice DIYers.
- Durability: Be aware that, while the dip treatment helps combat wear, regular maintenance will prolong the life of this playhouse.
Conclusion
In summary, the Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse stands out for its appealing design, numerous safety features, and solid construction. The incorporation of materials that provide durability ensures that children can enjoy this space for years. While its market positioning provides some options for better price-quality ratios, this playhouse serves as a commendable.choice for families prioritising an engaging outdoor play environment.
Ultimately, we believe that this playhouse is a worthwhile investment that will provide countless hours of fun for children, fostering creativity and outdoor play. Should you choose the Mercia, you can rest assured in its quality and features, making it a playground gem in your garden.
Product Details
Q: What is the construction material of the playhouse, and why is it important?
A: The playhouse is constructed from dip treated planed timber. This treatment not only enhances its aesthetics but also offers protection against the elements. In my experience, using dip treated timber can significantly extend the lifespan of outdoor structures, making it a worthwhile investment for parents looking to create a durable play area for their children.
Q: How secure is the playhouse with only one additional door?
A: The additional single door may raise concerns about accessibility and security; however, it serves a strategic purpose in maintaining the playhouse's structure and minimizing potential weak points. Having a controlled entry point can actually enhance security, ensuring that younger children remain safely inside while allowing for easier supervision.
Q: What type of glazing is used in the playhouse, and what are the benefits?
A: The playhouse features styrene glazing, which is a safer alternative to traditional glass. Styrene is resistant to shattering, making it ideal for children's play environments. From my viewpoint, this adds an element of safety, reducing the risk of injuries that could occur with sharp broken glass while still allowing plenty of natural light into the playhouse.
Q: Does the playhouse require a specific base size for installation?
A: Yes, it requires a base size of 7 x 7 feet for proper installation. This dimension is crucial as it provides a stable foundation to ensure the integrity of the structure. I recommend preparing this base ahead of time, as it will make the installation process smooth and help prevent future issues such as warping or sinking.
Q: Is the playhouse heavy, and how does that affect stability?
A: Weighing in at 218 kg, the playhouse is quite substantial, which contributes positively to its overall stability. A heavier structure can withstand outdoor elements such as wind better than lighter alternatives. In my opinion, this weight demonstrates quality craftsmanship that parents will appreciate, knowing that it will stay upright and secure during playtime.
Q: What type of roof covering is used, and how does it hold up to weather conditions?
A: The playhouse is fitted with a mineral felt roof covering. This material is known for its waterproof properties, effectively shielding the playhouse from rain and moisture. I find that mineral felt is an excellent choice for outdoor buildings, providing reliable weather protection and peace of mind, especially in the unpredictable UK climate.
Q: Is there an assembly service included, and how does that influence setup?
A: The playhouse does not require an assembly service, meaning you can set it up yourself. While this might seem daunting, I believe it empowers parents to have hands-on involvement in their child's new play space. It can be a fun family project, and many people find that assembling it themselves gives them a greater sense of ownership and satisfaction in the final product.
Q: Are there certifications for this playhouse, and what does that signify?
A: The playhouse boasts a PEFC accreditation, which stands for the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. This standard ensures that the timber has been sourced sustainably, which is vital for environmentally conscious consumers. I personally appreciate this commitment to sustainability, as it reflects a responsible approach to sourcing materials, allowing you to feel good about your purchase.
