EXPERT REVIEWED 
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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 8 x 6ft Shiplap Reverse Apex Timber Shed
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: 263278
Size: 8' x 6'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Mercia 8 x 6ft Shiplap Reverse Apex Timber Shed
The Mercia 8 x 6ft Shiplap Reverse Apex Timber Shed presents a compelling option within the ever-competitive Sheds category. With an elegant reverse apex roof style and ample storage space, it’s designed for everyday garden use and those looking to enhance their outdoor aesthetics while benefiting from robust functionality. Let’s explore its features, strengths, and weaknesses, based on expert assessments and market analysis.
Key Specifications
- Dimensions: 8′ x 6′
- Roof Style: Reverse Apex
- Cladding Material: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Treatment: Dip Treated
- Windows: 4 Styrene Glazed Windows
- Manufacturer’s Guarantee: 10 Years
Construction Quality
When diving into the construction quality, our experts scored the Mercia shed quite favourably. It received a 4 out of 5 for construction quality, indicating a solid build. The 12mm thick walls, made from shiplap tongue & groove cladding, are noted as the best available for garden sheds, used in 54% of comparable models in the market. This thickness helps provide strength and durability, making this shed a noteworthy competitor.
While the materials and build score highly, it’s essential to mention that the overall material quality score is slightly lower at 3.5. This suggests there may be some room for improvement in terms of the raw material used. However, given that 42% of top-rated sheds in similar categories feature this cladding, the shed still represents a solid option for most buyers.
Window and Ventilation Design
The Mercia shed includes four styrene-glazed windows, which our experts have rated less favourably relative to other glazing types. Styrene is generally more affordable but doesn’t boast the durability or aesthetic appeal of glass. In fact, this type is used in only 6% of all windowed sheds, so while it does allow natural light to flood the interior, it may not satisfy everyone in terms of longevity and enhancement of aesthetics.
Market Comparison
Positioned at approximately £860 based on recent data from Wickes, the Mercia shed sits 7% below the average expert score for similar products but is also £20 cheaper than the typical market offering in its category. This makes it competitive in terms of price, especially when you consider the feature set offered.
For those seeking alternatives with higher expert scores, you could consider the Shed Republic Ultimate Heavy-Duty Pent Shed, which boasts an expert score of 92 and is priced at £1,329. Additionally, if budget is your primary concern, the 6’7 x 7′ Shire Shiplap Pent Shed is available for £610, offering a greater savings without sacrificing quality.
Usability and Assembly
With a strong rating of 4 for ease of construction, the Mercia shed is designed with straightforward assembly in mind. While inexperienced DIY enthusiasts might still benefit from a helping hand, most users can expect to erect it without extensive prior knowledge. Its design aims to simplify the installation process, ultimately allowing you to enjoy your shed sooner.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In summary, the Mercia 8 x 6ft Shiplap Reverse Apex Timber Shed balances aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Its combination of robust materials, commendable construction quality, and attractive price point make it a solid choice for anyone in search of a reliable garden shed. However, potential buyers should be aware of the less robust aesthetics of the styrene windows, which may require consideration based on individual needs.
For users in need of higher durability, particularly in extreme weather conditions or high wind areas, we recommend examining metal options such as the Yardmaster Metal Shed. For more garden-friendly designs that allow for improved aesthetics, a quick look at additional wooden offerings in our extensive shed category might yield some enticing alternatives.
Overall, we feel that the Mercia shed earns its place among the reliable options available today, and if you’re interested in enhancing your garden storage, it’s certainly worth considering.
Product Details
Q: What is the overall size of this timber shed, and how does it fit into my garden space?
A: This timber shed measures 2432 mm in depth, 1905 mm in width, and 2222 mm in height. With an internal area of 14 square metres, it offers ample space for storage or as a workshop. This size makes it ideal for small to medium gardens, as it can provide a significant amount of storage without overwhelming your outdoor space. Just be sure you have a base size of 8 x 6 feet prepared for installation.
Q: Can I customise the look of this shed?
A: Yes! The shed is dip treated with planed timber finish, which not only provides an attractive appearance but also aids in protecting against weathering. However, I recommend applying a suitable wood treatment every year to maintain its protective qualities and aesthetics. The natural look of wood can harmonise nicely with most garden settings, giving you a beautiful focal point.
Q: What are the roofing and door options available with this shed?
A: The shed comes with a mineral felt roof covering, which is quite common and effective for protecting against the elements. It's durable and provides good waterproofing. Additionally, there is one additional door, which enhances accessibility—allowing you to easily store and retrieve items without hassle. This feature is particularly useful if you plan to use the shed as a workspace, where you need to move equipment in and out regularly.
Q: How sturdy is this shed, and what factors contribute to its stability?
A: Weighing 180 kg, this timber shed is quite robust. The construction using FSC® accredited timber indicates that the wood is sourced sustainably and is likely of good quality, which adds to the shed's overall durability. However, when setting it up, it's essential to ensure that it's on a level base to maintain its structural integrity over time. This weight classifies it as a solid option that should withstand the UK's varying weather conditions fairly well.
Q: Is this timber shed energy-efficient or eco-friendly?
A: This shed's construction with FSC® accredited timber shows a commitment to sustainable practices, which is a significant plus for eco-conscious buyers. While it does not boast any specific energy-efficient features, the natural insulation properties of wood can assist in stabilising the internal temperature, making it a reasonable choice for storage without excessive energy costs.
Q: Are there any downsides to consider with the additional glazing material used?
A: The shed features styrene glazing, which is a lightweight alternative to glass. While it's shatter-resistant, making it safer in certain conditions, it may not offer the same level of insulation or durability as traditional glass. Over time, particularly with prolonged exposure to UV light, styrene can become cloudy and may require replacement. So if aesthetics and long-term clarity are priorities for you, this could be a point to consider.
Q: Do I need help to assemble this timber shed?
A: Fortunately, assembly service is not required for this shed. This means you can save on additional costs associated with hiring a professional. However, I recommend having at least one other person to help you during assembly, as it can be a bit challenging to manipulate larger panels alone. Clear and straightforward instructions will make the task manageable for most DIY enthusiasts.
