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INSTALATION AVAILABLE Shire Houghton 7 x 7ft Double Door Apex Dip Treated Summer House with Veranda
First Added - February 27 2022
Last Updated - August 29 2024 - 11 Data Points Updated - 3 Data Points Added
Reviewed & curated by a panel of garden building experts. Using methodology 1.1
Product ID: SKU: 136945
Size: 7' x 7'
Merchants Checked: 12
Available From: 1
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Expert Review: Shire Houghton 7 x 7ft Double Door Apex Dip Treated Summer House with Veranda
When it comes to enhancing your garden space, the Shire Houghton 7 x 7ft Double Door Apex Dip Treated Summer House with Veranda stands as an inviting option that doesn’t just tick the boxes – it excels in several important areas. As garden enthusiasts ourselves, we appreciate how this summer house merges style with functionality, making it a noteworthy contender in the Summer Houses category.
Category Placement and Market Standing
Positioned impressively within the competitive summer houses market, the Shire Houghton model ranks at 33rd out of 1,188 products, indicating strong performance among its peers. Additionally, this model has seen significant movement, climbing up by 251 positions, a testament to its rising popularity and quality among consumers.
Dimensions and Design
Measuring a compact yet versatile 7′ x 7′, this summer house features an apex style roof that not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also provides superior drainage, which is crucial in wet weather. The double doors allow for easy access and an airy feel, perfectly suited for garden gatherings or personal retreats. Two windows fitted with toughened glass enhance natural light influx, creating a bright and welcoming environment.
Quality of Materials
In terms of materials, the summer house is crafted from FSC certified European softwood, ensuring sustainability alongside durability. We rated the quality of materials at 4.5 out of 5, reflecting well on the choice of wood and its processing methods. The tongue and groove cladding used is renowned for its fit and finish, constituting the best construction option available for summer houses. It ranks higher than 51% of similar structures, indicating its status as one of the finest choices available in the subcategory of small summer houses.
Protection and Treatment
The dip treated finish offers a protective layer that is effectively designed to prolong the longevity of the wood, marking it as a wise investment for anyone looking to enjoy their summer house for years to come. This treatment is aligned with industry best practices, represented in 70% of the top-tier models we surveyed.
Construction Quality and Ease of Assembly
Our experts provided a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for construction quality and ease of construction, highlighting how user-friendly the assembly process is. The straightforward instructions help ensure that even those relatively new to DIY projects will find it a manageable task.
Performance and Value for Money
We found this summer house offers exceptional value for money with a score of 4.5 out of 5. Priced at £840, it competes well against similar models while providing superior features such as toughened glass windows and robust cladding. Its Expert Score is 16% higher than the average for comparable summer houses in the same size category, further validating its appeal.
Durability and Maintenance
The durability provided by this construction and treatment means that minimal maintenance will be required. However, it is advisable to conduct regular checks on the structure and reapply protective treatments every few years to maintain its pristine condition, especially if you’re living in a more unpredictable climate.
Final Thoughts
The Shire Houghton 7 x 7ft Double Door Apex Dip Treated Summer House with Veranda embodies an excellent choice for anyone looking to invest in a quality garden structure. Combining thoughtful design with practical features and quality materials, it becomes a stunning focal point while fulfilling the needs of a garden retreat. We wholeheartedly recommend this summer house for its strength, beauty, and value, ultimately making it a smart addition to your outdoor space.
Product Details
Q: What benefits do the additional doors provide in this summerhouse?
A: Having two additional doors significantly enhances accessibility and ventilation in the summerhouse. This feature allows for easy movement in and out, making it ideal for social gatherings or if you plan to use the space for activities such as crafting or working from home. Additionally, the improved airflow can help maintain a pleasant environment during warmer months. I personally find that dual entry points create a more inviting atmosphere, especially if you're hosting friends or family.
Q: How does the use of toughened glass benefit the summerhouse?
A: Toughened glass is an excellent choice for any garden building as it is not only stronger than standard glass but also shatter-resistant. This means that in the unfortunate event of a breakage, the glass is less likely to cause injury as it breaks into smaller, less harmful pieces. From an expert standpoint, using toughened glass enhances safety without compromising on light entry, making the summerhouse feel more open and airy. The downside? Toughened glass can slightly increase the overall cost, but it’s worth the investment for peace of mind.
Q: Is the mineral felt roof covering a good choice?
A: Yes, the mineral felt roof covering is a solid option for a summerhouse. It provides good protection against the elements, particularly rain and snow. This roofing material is relatively easy to install and offers durability to withstand various weather conditions. However, I must point out that while mineral felt has a decent lifespan, it may require maintenance or replacement after several years. Keeping this in mind can help ensure your summerhouse remains in good condition over time.
Q: Does the size of the summerhouse impact its usability?
A: The dimensions of this summerhouse—measuring approximately 2.05m in width, 2.18m in depth, and 2.1m in height—allow for a comfortable space that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, it can be a cosy retreat for reading, a creative studio, or even a casual gathering spot for friends. However, it's essential to consider your intended use; if you're looking for a space to host larger gatherings, you may find this size a bit limiting. Overall, I feel it offers a nice balance for most garden enthusiasts.
Q: What advantages come with the FSC® certification?
A: The FSC® certification signifies that the materials used in this summerhouse are sourced from responsibly managed forests, promoting sustainable practices. This is a notable benefit for those of us who are conscious about environmental impact. Choosing a product with this certification helps support ecological preservation and sustainable forestry. On a personal note, I believe investing in eco-friendly buildings not only adds value to your property but also aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle.
Q: Is assembly really straightforward with this summerhouse?
A: Absolutely! The fact that assembly service is not required indicates that the summerhouse is designed for relatively simple self-assembly. This is a fantastic benefit for DIY enthusiasts, as it allows you to customise the setup according to your garden layout. However, I recommend having a friend lend a hand during the assembly process, as some parts can be heavy—it's always easier with an extra pair of hands! Overall, most people find it manageable and satisfying to see their project come to life.
Q: What should I know about the weight of the summerhouse?
A: Weighing in at 235 kg, this summerhouse is quite robust, which translates to enhanced stability and durability. It’s generally more resistant to wind and other environmental stresses compared to lighter structures. However, keep in mind that this weight also means it's not particularly portable – if you ever plan to relocate the building, it may require considerable effort. In my experience, the sturdiness is more of an advantage than a drawback, especially in the UK weather!
