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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Mercia Vermont 8 x 8ft Summer House including Double Bi-Fold Doors with Assembly
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 12 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 178173
Size: 8' x 8'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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In-Depth Review of the Mercia Vermont 8 x 8ft Summer House with Double Bi-Fold Doors
Welcome to our detailed evaluation of the Mercia Vermont 8 x 8ft Summer House with Double Bi-Fold Doors. This product sits firmly in the summer houses category, alongside subcategories like Small Summer Houses and Wooden Summer Houses. If you’re in the market for a charming and functional space to enjoy in your garden, you might find this summer house of particular interest. Let’s dive in and dissect what makes this summer house tick.
Key Features
The Mercia Vermont model boasts a traditional apex roof design, which is not just aesthetically pleasing but offers practical benefits like rainwater run-off. The doors of this summer house are a standout feature: the double bi-fold doors allow for easy entry and a striking visual appeal, effectively merging your indoor and outdoor spaces.
Constructed from European softwood and featuring shiplap tongue & groove cladding, this summer house provides a solid build. The cladding has a thickness of 12mm, placing it within the standards used by 92% of top-performing summer houses in this size category, and is adhered to by 70% of the market’s best sellers. Protection-wise, it undergoes a dip treatment, which helps prolong its lifespan by protecting against the elements.
Window and Glazing Quality
Natural light is essential in any summer house, and the Mercia Vermont does not disappoint, equipped with two windows. However, the type of glazing is a point to consider: it uses styrene glazing, which, while lightweight and shatter-resistant, has been placed at the lower end of the quality spectrum compared to other glazing options.
Dimensions and Space Utilisation
At 8′ x 8′, this summer house provides 2569.0mm of height, which is notably 19% more than the average for this category, allowing for additional headroom which can make a significant difference in usability and comfort. This extra vertical space might be particularly appealing for taller individuals or those looking for a more spacious feel.
Construction Quality and Ease
Experts have rated the quality of materials as a 3 out of 5 and construction quality slightly higher at 3.5 out of 5. These scores suggest that while the Vermont is satisfactory concerning its materials, there may be better-performing options out there if you’re looking for robust durability. On the brighter side, the ease of construction received a perfect score of 5 out of 5, indicating that even novice DIYers will find this summer house manageable to assemble.
Market Analysis and Value for Money
When it comes to value for money, this summer house stands out with a score of 4.5 out of 5. At a price point of £1,550 from the primary retailer, Wickes, it is slightly above the average cost for similar summer houses. However, considering the quality of construction, design features, and the two-year weather protection treatment, I feel the price is justified. Plus, if you’re doing a market comparison, alternatives at lower prices, like the Adley 8′ x 8′ Adderbury Summer House, can save you considerably (£651 less), albeit with slightly lower expert scores.
Position in the Market
In a broader context, the Mercia Vermont records a position of 467 out of 1188 summer houses analysed, placing it in the top 39% of the category. This indicates respectable popularity; however, a decline in rank of 154 suggests a competitive landscape and may signal emerging alternatives that outperform it.
Final Thoughts
The Mercia Vermont 8 x 8ft Summer House with Double Bi-Fold Doors is a solid choice, especially if you’re looking for something user-friendly that doesn’t compromise on style. Even though it has a few minor drawbacks, particularly regarding window glazing and raw material quality, it excels in design, ease of assembly, and aesthetic appeal. If the qualities align with your expectations and needs for a summer house, it might just be the perfect addition to your garden.
In summary, it’s a well-rounded option for any homeowner wanting to expand their outdoor living space, providing a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and cost. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on your specific requirements and whether you can overlook certain aspects for the sake of style and convenience.
Product Details
Q: What kind of doors does this summerhouse come with?
A: This summerhouse features a total of four additional doors, which can significantly enhance access and ventilation within the space. With multiple entry points, you can easily enjoy the fresh air or allow guests to freely move in and out during gatherings. Personally, I find this an excellent benefit when using the summerhouse as a relaxing retreat or entertaining space, as it promotes an open and inviting atmosphere.
Q: What glazing material is used for the windows, and what are the implications?
A: The summerhouse is equipped with Styrene glazing, a type of plastic that is known for being lightweight and shatter-resistant. While Styrene doesn’t offer the same level of clarity as glass, it’s a practical choice for a garden structure that may see your children playing or be subjected to the elements. In my opinion, this reduces the risk of breakage, making it a safer option for families, though you might lose some of the classic aesthetic charm that glass offers.
Q: What type of roof covering is included, and how does it impact durability?
A: The summerhouse comes with a Mineral Felt roof covering, which is designed to provide a waterproof barrier. This is particularly beneficial in the UK, where rain can be frequent. However, it’s worth noting that while mineral felt is cost-effective, it may require periodic maintenance, such as re-sealing or replacing after a few years, to ensure its longevity. From my experience, ensuring a well-maintained roof can greatly extend the life of the building.
Q: What are the dimensions of the summerhouse?
A: This summerhouse has a width of 2411mm, a depth of 2484mm, and a height of 2569mm. Its spacious dimensions offer ample room for storage, relaxation, or even creative pursuits like painting or crafting. I find these dimensions quite appealing, especially for those with moderate garden space, as it strikes a balance between being compact yet spacious enough to serve various functions.
Q: Is assembly service included, and what should I expect?
A: Yes, the summerhouse requires an assembly service. This means that you'll have to budget both time and potentially additional costs if you choose to hire professionals. While DIY enthusiasts might enjoy the challenge, I recommend professional assembly for those less experienced or in a hurry, as proper assembly is critical for the structural integrity and durability of the building. You don’t want to cut corners here!
Q: What are the environmental credentials of this summerhouse?
A: This product is FSC® Certified, indicating that the timber used in its construction comes from responsibly managed forests. This is a fantastic feature for anyone who is environmentally conscious, as it ensures that your purchase is contributing to sustainable forestry practices. I believe investing in eco-friendly options not only benefits the planet but also enhances the overall appeal of your space.
