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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 8ft x 6ft Garage Double Storey Playhouse Installation Included
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 9 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 633139
Size: 8' x 6'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Mercia 8ft x 6ft Garage Double Storey Playhouse
When looking for a playhouse that blends fun and functionality, the Mercia 8ft x 6ft Garage Double Storey Playhouse Installation Included is a commendable choice. In this review, we delve into its features, materials, construction, and overall market comparison, giving you a comprehensive perspective to decide if it’s the right pick for your backyard kingdom.
Product Overview
The Mercia Garage Double Storey Playhouse is topped with an apex roof, providing ample space for play while ensuring water drainage away from the structure. With dimensions of 8′ x 6′, this playhouse offers a good balance between size and usability, making it suitable for most gardens.
The playhouse is constructed from shiplap tongue & groove cladding, which is respected for its robustness and insulation properties, helping keep the interior dry and warm. It features five styrene windows, allowing natural light to illuminate the space while keeping it safe for little adventurers.
Materials That Matter
In evaluating materials, the Mercia playhouse scores a notable 3.5 out of 5 for quality. While it’s a strong contender, some may find the materials slightly beneath the higher premium models in the market. The cladding, consisting of 12mm thick boards, offers a solid foundation typical of many playhouses. It’s particularly reassuring to note that this thickness is prevalent across 59% of the top models, a promising indicator of quality.
Construction Quality
Our experts rated the construction quality at an impressive 4 out of 5. The ease of assembly also garnered a similar score, making it user-friendly for parents looking to set up quickly. Mercia provides a 10-year guarantee, indicating their confidence in this product’s durability. Do remember that proper installation and a sturdy base are imperative, as highlighted in the product specifications. A smooth installation process ensures that your playhouse is built to last.
Exterior and Roofing
One of the standout aspects is the mineral felt used for roofing, which is durable and effective in shedding water. An impressive 88% of the top playhouses utilise similar roofing materials, showing that Mercia’s choice aligns with industry standards. In this category, it scores just slightly below the average, denoting that while there may be better options, you can still expect reliable performance from this model.
Window and Door Features
The presence of styrene glazing in the five windows elevates the safety of this playhouse, as it’s less prone to breakage than traditional glass. With a score of 3 out of 5 regarding material quality, it holds its ground strongly, as more than 94% of the top models favour this glazing type. Avoiding shattered glass is just one of the thoughtful touches that Mercia has integrated into this playhouse.
Value for Money
The value for money aspect received a score of 3 out of 5. Priced at approximately £1,560, you should consider if this investment aligns with your budget for a playhouse. There are alternative options saving you quite a bit that still perform well, but Mercia’s model gives you the peace of mind with its solid construction and warranty.
Performance in the Market
Within the realm of playhouses, the Mercia 8ft x 6ft model ranks at position 126 out of 188, which shows a fair competitiveness. Even with a slight drop of -22 positions, it remains a strong contender with an expert score just above the average for its size class, offering reassuring performance in a thriving market.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Mercia 8ft x 6ft Garage Double Storey Playhouse serves as a fantastic investment for families seeking a vibrant play area that promises years of enjoyment. It combines quality materials with solid design features, ensuring it meets safety standards while providing a delightful space for children.
However, as with any significant purchase, we recommend you consider your specific needs and perhaps explore options like the Large Playhouse or the 2 Storey Playhouses for comparative insights. You might even look into more affordable options, like the Mercia 10 x 5ft Wooden Snug Playhouse or other competitive models to ensure the best fit for your garden.
With the included installation service and attention to detail in its construction, the Mercia playhouse is for anyone looking to elevate their children’s outdoor play experience.
Product Details
Q: What type of additional door can I expect with this playhouse?
A: This playhouse includes one additional door, which enhances accessibility and allows for better flow, especially when multiple children are playing. As someone who values versatile designs, I appreciate this feature because it encourages children to engage in active play and facilitates easier entry and exit, making it a safer option for monitoring their activities.
Q: What materials are used for the windows in this playhouse?
A: The windows of this playhouse are made from Styrene, which is a lightweight, shatter-resistant plastic. In my experience, Styrene is a fantastic choice for play structures as it offers safety without sacrificing visibility. However, it's worth noting that while Styrene is durable, it may scratch more easily than glass, which could affect long-term aesthetics. For parents prioritising safety and functionality, this material is a solid decision.
Q: How is the roof of the playhouse covered?
A: The roof is covered with Mineral Felt, which is designed to provide a waterproof barrier. In the UK's often rainy climate, this is a crucial feature. Mineral Felt not only ensures that the interior stays dry during wet weather, but it also requires minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. As an expert, I find that this balance of durability and maintenance ease is a significant advantage for busy parents.
Q: What does the 'Unpainted' finish mean for my playhouse?
A: An 'Unpainted' finish indicates that the playhouse comes as natural wood, giving you the flexibility to personalise it according to your style preferences. If you're like me and enjoy home improvement projects, this is an exciting opportunity to add a coat of paint or varnish to match your garden décor. However, be aware that leaving the wood unprotected could result in weathering over time, so I recommend treating it for longevity.
Q: How spacious is the playhouse in terms of internal dimensions?
A: The playhouse dimensions are approximately 3.0 feet in depth and 3.0 feet in width, providing an external area coverage of 1.34 m². While this may not be the largest playhouse on the market, it offers a comfortable space for children to play, facilitating imaginative scenarios. However, if you’re accommodating larger groups or children who prefer active play, consider this factor, as it may feel a bit cramped during busy playdates.
Q: Is assembly required for this playhouse?
A: Yes, assembly is required for this playhouse, and it's essential to consider this aspect when purchasing. Personally, I regard assembly as a bonding activity – putting it together can be a fun project for parents and children alike. However, if DIY is not your strong suit, hiring an assembly service might be necessary. This added service ensures the playhouse is constructed safely and correctly, which is worth considering to avoid potential pitfalls.
Q: How robust is the playhouse in terms of weight?
A: Weighing in at 80 kg, this playhouse is substantial enough to withstand typical handling and outdoor conditions. The weight suggests stability, which is crucial for outdoor structures exposed to wind and other elements. From an expert's viewpoint, a heavier build is beneficial as it reduces the likelihood of the playhouse being easily toppled during breezy days, ensuring a safer environment for your children.
Q: Does this playhouse have any certifications?
A: Yes, this playhouse is EN71 Certified, meaning it meets European safety standards for toys. This certification provides parents with reassurance that the playhouse is made with child safety in mind. In my opinion, such accreditation is vital as it indicates the product has been thoroughly tested, thereby providing peace of mind when allowing children to play. It’s a significant advantage that underscores the manufacturer's commitment to quality and safety.
