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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 8 x 7ft Pent Style Timber Playhouse with Tower
First Added - August 29 2024
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 0 Data Points Updated - 33 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 263305
Size: 8' x 7'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review: Mercia 8 x 7ft Pent Style Timber Playhouse with Tower
The Mercia 8 x 7ft Pent Style Timber Playhouse with Tower is an attractive addition to any garden, aimed at providing children with a safe and imaginative space for play. With its appealing design, robust construction, and thoughtful features, this playhouse stands out in the competitive market of playhouses. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this playhouse a noteworthy choice.
Categories and Subcategories
Being classified primarily under Playhouses, this Mercia product also falls within specific styles, including Wendy Houses, Wooden Playhouses, Large Playhouses, and Playhouses on Stilts. This versatility highlights its broad appeal to various consumer needs.
Key Features
- Roof Type: The playhouse features a pent style roof, which is a popular choice for rain runoff and sturdiness.
- Materials: Crafted from shiplap tongue & groove timber, known for its tight fit and durability.
- Treatment: Dip treated for long-lasting protection against the elements, giving parents peace of mind when it comes to durability.
- Size: With dimensions of 8’ x 7’, this playhouse provides ample room for movement and play.
- Windows: This model includes 2 styrene-glazed windows, ensuring natural light inside while also enhancing safety.
Manufacturing Guarantee
Mercia backs this playhouse with a 10-year guarantee, showcasing the brand’s trust in the longevity of its product, provided that it is adequately maintained. This is a reassuring factor for parents looking for a worthwhile investment.
Quality Assessment
Our experts assigned four key scores based on various attributes of the product:
- Material Quality: Rated at 3.5/5, the quality of materials used is respectable but could rival higher-tier models.
- Construction Quality: An impressive 4/5 score reflects solid craftsmanship, ensuring the structure is safe and stable for children.
- Ease of Construction: Scoring 4.5/5 indicates that parents may find assembly straightforward, making the experience less daunting.
- Value for Money: At 4/5, the balance of price versus quality positions this playhouse as a competitive option within the segment.
Performance and Market Comparison
Compared to other models in the Playhouses category, the Mercia 8 x 7ft Pent Style Timber Playhouse holds a strong position, sitting at the 50th percentile among its peers. Out of 188 products analyzed, the quality and specifications of this playhouse have earned it a place in the top tier. This indicates that while there are alternatives available, this model delivers solid performance.
When we look specifically at its competitors, we discover that this model has an Expert Score ranking just above average in its class, while retailing at £920, which is positioned competitively within the market. The structure is 4% higher than the average Expert Score, demonstrating its overall appeal.
Additional Considerations
While the Mercia playhouse checks many boxes, it’s important to consider the height, which stands at 1963mm (6′)—13% less than the average for similar playhouses. This could be a potential downside for taller children or if you are hoping for a structure that could last as they grow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mercia 8 x 7ft Pent Style Timber Playhouse with Tower is a commendable choice for parents seeking an attractive, sturdy, and functional playhouse for their children. Its blend of quality materials, careful construction, and favorable guarantee makes it a product worth considering. You will appreciate the thoughtful features that cater to child safety and comfort, while your little ones will delight in the creative playscape it offers. If you are looking for a reliable playhouse that can withstand the test of time and provide years of enjoyment, we can genuinely recommend giving the Mercia playhouse serious consideration.
Product Details
Q: What is the benefit of the additional door on the playhouse?
A: The inclusion of an additional door is a great benefit, particularly for playhouses which are often frequented by children. This feature promotes better airflow, creating a more comfortable environment, especially during warmer days. Additionally, it enhances accessibility, allowing kids to move in and out easily, fostering independent play. In my experience, designs with multiple entry points tend to be more inviting and versatile, catering to the dynamic nature of children's play.
Q: How does the choice of styrene for glazing compare to traditional glass?
A: Styrene is a popular choice for glazing in garden buildings, especially playhouses, because it is lightweight, shatter-resistant, and provides good insulation. While traditional glass can break easily, styrene assures safety during playtime, giving peace of mind to parents. However, it's worth noting that styrene can scratch more easily than glass, which may affect its clarity over time. Overall, the benefits of safety and weight make it a suitable choice for children’s playhouses.
Q: What is the purpose of the mineral felt roof covering?
A: Mineral felt is a practical choice for roof covering as it provides excellent weather resistance, ensuring the longevity of the playhouse. It protects against rain, wind, and varying weather conditions, which is crucial for outdoor structures. In my opinion, while it may not have the aesthetic appeal of shingles, its functional advantages often outweigh visual considerations, particularly in a children’s play area where durability is key.
Q: Why is dip treated planed timber a good choice for the finish?
A: The dip treated planed timber finish is beneficial because it not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the playhouse but also protects the wood from rot and decay, prolonging its lifespan. The planed finish ensures that the surface is smooth, reducing the risk of splinters, which is particularly important for children. While some homeowners might prefer a higher level of finish, the practical benefits and robustness of this treatment make it a wise choice for outdoor play structures.
Q: What dimensions should I consider when planning the base size for the playhouse?
A: This playhouse requires a base size of 8 x 7 feet, which must be taken into account when selecting the installation site. It's important to ensure adequate space not only for the structure itself but also for safe movement around it. In my experience, providing additional space for play or landscaping can greatly enhance the usability of the area. Therefore, I recommend choosing a level, clear surface that can accommodate the stated dimensions comfortably.
Q: Is assembly of the playhouse required, and how complicated is it?
A: The great news is that this playhouse does not require an assembly service. Most DIY enthusiasts should find the assembly process straightforward, as the design is likely pre-fabricated for easier setup. However, I would still recommend having a helper, as some parts can be cumbersome to manoeuvre alone. The simplicity of assembly combined with its straightforward design makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a hands-on approach.
Q: How does the weight of 96 kg impact the stability of the playhouse?
A: Weighing in at 96 kg, this playhouse is quite substantial, which directly contributes to its stability in various weather conditions. A heavier structure is typically less prone to being moved or toppled by wind, providing a safe play environment for children. From my perspective, opting for a sturdier build is advantageous, especially in the UK where weather can be unpredictable, ensuring that the playhouse remains a reliable space for outdoor play.
Q: What does PEFC accreditation mean for this playhouse?
A: PEFC accreditation indicates that the timber used in this playhouse comes from sustainably managed forests, which is an important consideration for environmentally conscious consumers. This certification reassures you that your purchase contributes to responsible forestry practices. Personally, I find that investing in eco-friendly products not only supports sustainability but also provides a great talking point about caring for our planet, especially in a space intended for children.
