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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia 8ft x 7ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse with Tower Installation Included
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: 511512
Size: 8' x 7'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Mercia 8ft x 7ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse with Tower – An In-Depth Review
If you’re on the hunt for a playhouse that brings both fun and functionality to your garden, the Mercia 8ft x 7ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse with Tower stands out in its category. Designed for children’s imaginative play, this playhouse features an installation service included in its price, allowing you to set it up with minimal hassle. Let’s explore its features, performance, and where it fits in the market.
Specifications and Features
- Dimensions: 8ft x 7ft
- External Dimensions: (H)2625 x (W)2272 x (D)2177mm
- Internal Dimensions: (H)1626 x (W)1705 x (D)1127mm
- Cladding Type: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
- Glazing Material: Styrene, with 2 windows
- Roof Covering: Mineral Felt
- Floor Material: OSB
- Guarantee: 10 Years
- Weight: 181 kg
This playhouse is created with FSC Certified Timber, indicating that the materials are sourced sustainably. The use of shiplap tongue & groove cladding is a superb choice for durability, as it’s been shown to perform well across the playhouse market.
Quality Assessment
When it comes to the quality of materials used, our experts rated this playhouse at 3 out of 5. While the shiplap tongue & groove cladding is commendable, it’s crucial to note that the playhouse comes untreated, requiring annual maintenance with a wood preservative and waterproof coating post-installation. This extra step may be seen as a drawback for those seeking a more hands-free experience.
The construction quality also sits at 3 out of 5, which is respectable yet highlights room for improvement. The overall ease of construction scores well at 4.5 out of 5, largely due to the included installation service that takes the burden off you. This is particularly beneficial for those less experienced in DIY projects.
Value for Money
In terms of pricing, the Mercia playhouse is currently listed at approximately £1,160 at HomeBase. Considering the feature set and the guaranteed durability, it earns a solid score of 4 out of 5 for value for money. Compared to its peers, this playhouse is slightly above average in price but offers a good balance of quality and features.
Market Standing
In the competitive landscape of playhouses, the Mercia 8ft x 7ft Honeysuckle holds a position that reflects its mixed scores. With a total analysis showing it ranks at about 64.9% across the playhouse category and sitting at position 122 out of 188 products, it shows decent appeal, although it has slipped slightly in relative standing. The inclusion of two windows with styrene glazing adds to its attractiveness, as this glazing type is preferred in approximately 100% of top 10% playhouses.
Key Advantages and Considerations
Pros:
- High-quality cladding with shiplap tongue & groove.
- Included installation offers convenience.
- Windows use a robust styrene material for safety.
- Longer guarantee period of 10 years provides peace of mind.
Cons:
- Untreated material necessitates yearly maintenance.
- Average scores in construction quality may raise concerns for some buyers.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Mercia 8ft x 7ft Honeysuckle Wooden Playhouse with Tower is a suitable option for families seeking a well-featured playhouse designed for sustainable fun. While the maintenance requirement may put off some buyers, its solid build quality and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment. Ultimately, we appreciate the balance it strikes between play and practicality, catering perfectly to your children’s creative escapades.
If you’re considering alternatives, we recommend checking other options such as the Wooden Playhouses to compare attributes and pricing to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.
Product Details
Q: What are the dimensions of the Mercia Playhouse?
A: The Mercia Playhouse has external dimensions of 2625 x 2272 x 2177mm (L x W x H) and internal dimensions of 1626mm in height, 1705mm in width, and 1127mm in depth. This size provides ample space for children to play and allows for easy placement in most gardens, making it an excellent choice for outdoor fun.
Q: Is the installation of the Mercia Playhouse included?
A: Yes, an installation service is included with the Mercia Playhouse. Mercia Garden Products provides a two-man team that ensures a smooth and successful installation process. However, it’s important to note that you must prepare a suitable base prior to delivery and installation, which can be a drawback if you're not ready to accommodate this requirement.
Q: What materials are used in the construction of the Playhouse?
A: The Mercia Playhouse is constructed from FSC Certified Timber, guaranteeing that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. The floor is made from OSB, while the roof is covered with mineral felt, providing decent weather resistance. However, it's critical to treat the timber with a wood preservative and waterproof top coat immediately after installation and annually thereafter. Failing to do so can lead to deterioration over time, which is something to consider when evaluating long-term care.
Q: Does the Playhouse come with a warranty or certification?
A: Yes, the Mercia Playhouse is made from FSC Certified Timber, ensuring quality and sustainability. However, specific warranty details are not mentioned in the specifications, so it's advisable to check with the seller regarding any warranty options and coverage for potential defects or issues.
Q: How should I prepare the area for installation of the Playhouse?
A: Preparing a suitable area for installation is essential for the Mercia Playhouse. Mercia recommends that you create a firm, solid, and level base that is no smaller than the size of the product. Additionally, leaving a 2-foot clearance gap around the building is crucial for maintenance and upkeep. This preparation can add extra work to your project, but it ensures the longevity and stability of the playhouse.
Q: Is the glazing material used in the Playhouse durable?
A: The Playhouse features styrene glazing, which is known for being safer than glass, particularly in a play environment. While it offers adequate visibility and protection from the elements, styrene may not be as durable as traditional glass and can scratch more easily. Depending on your needs, this might be a consideration for potential upkeep or replacement in the future.
Q: What maintenance is required for the Mercia Playhouse?
A: Regular maintenance is important for the Mercia Playhouse. After installation, you must treat the wood with a preservative and a waterproof top coat, and this should be done annually. This maintenance regimen is essential to protect the timber from the elements and extends the life of your playhouse, though it does require some diligence from you as the owner.
Q: What additional items come with the Playhouse?
A: When you purchase the Mercia Playhouse, it comes complete with felt, fixings, and clear instructions for assembly. The inclusion of these items simplifies the setup process, but you still need to factor in the appropriate base preparation as mentioned earlier.
