7′ x 5′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House

In-Depth Review of the 7′ x 5′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House

As we delve into our analysis of the 7′ x 5′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House, it’s important to understand its position within the competitive landscape of summer houses. With a retail price ranging around £709.99, this model stands out as a mid-range option among the vast selection of summer houses available in the market. This review combines expert insights, market analysis, and user feedback to offer you a comprehensive overview of this product.

Product Overview

The Forest Oakley summer house is designed with a modern pent roof, providing a sleek aesthetic while maximising internal space. Measuring 7′ x 5′, it presents a footprint that accommodates a variety of garden layouts. Crafted from pressure treated overlap board, this structure is aimed at durability and longevity, suitable for casual garden storage, leisure, or hobby activities.

Key features of the Forest Oakley include:

• Pent Roof Style: This roof design provides effective water drainage and prevents the build-up of heavy snow.
• Double Door Access: The lockable double doors offer both security and ease of entry, making it convenient for placing larger items inside.
• Pressure Treatment: This method significantly extends the lifespan of the wood, providing protection against rot and insect damage.
• Shatter-Resistant Windows: The glazing uses acrylic materials, allowing natural light to flood in while ensuring safety.

Expert Ratings

Based on our analytical review, we have rated the product across several key indicators:

• Quality of Materials: 3/5 – The overlap board cladding is common but typically not regarded as a high-end choice compared to shiplap or tongue-and-groove options.
• Quality of Construction: 3.5/5 – While construction is satisfactory, there’s potential for enhanced frame stability.
• Ease of Assembly: 5/5 – Users have reported that assembly is straightforward, making it a good option for DIY enthusiasts.
• Value for Money: 5/5 – Priced competitively, with solid features for garden use, this model provides excellent value.

Material and Construction Analysis

The cladding of the Forest Oakley, made from overlap board, while not the highest tier of material, is widely used in the industry. Our research indicates that overlap board is employed on approximately 4% of summer houses, with 23% of 7′ x 5′ models, also showing a similar trend. While cladding thickness is rated as the weakest (7mm), the pressure-treated process enhances its durability considerably. In this particular arena, the product scored 15% higher than the average overlap board summer house.

On the roofing front, the use of OSB for the pent roof is among the better options available. Experts praise it for necessary rigidity and its ability to withstand weather changes. Combined with a strong mineral felt roof covering, it boasts resilience, with nearly 26% of similar summer houses employing this type of roofing material.

When it comes to the flooring, the product features a robust 14mm thick floor, positioning it above competitors in terms of impact resistance and overall durability.

Windows and Doors

The three windows of this summer house are crafted from shatter-resistant acrylic, which is beneficial for households with children or pets. The double doors, measuring approximately 1,156mm wide and 1,652mm tall, provide easy access and contribute to the airy feel of the space. Early reviews reflect user approval for the consistency and effectiveness of door seals against the weather.

Market Position

Positioned at rank 379 out of 1188 within the summer house category, the Forest Oakley holds its own, outperforming 31.9% of its competitors. It also ranks as one of the best-value options on offer, being £89 less expensive than the average in this category.

Where Does It Excel?

In summary, the 7′ x 5′ Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House excels in various areas:

• The simplicities of assembly make it an accessible option for novice DIYers.
• Its combination of effective weather resistance and pressure-treated wood, prolonging lifespan.
• Enhanced safety features thanks to shatter-resistant windows and lockable doors.

Potential Drawbacks

Nevertheless, there are areas to be cautious about:

• The overlap board cladding is not as desirable as shiplap options and may require additional care and maintenance over time.
• The wall thickness of 7mm may not provide the same insulating properties as thicker alternatives, which may be a concern in extreme weather conditions.

Conclusion

Overall, if you’re searching for a budget-friendly summer house that combines style, functionality, and sufficient durability for everyday garden use, the Forest Oakley Double Door Pent Summer House is a commendable choice. While it doesn’t lead the pack, it consistently performs well against its peers, especially given its competitive pricing and ease of assembly. If you value quality over extravagance and wish to add a practical yet stylish space to your garden, this summer house is definitely worth considering.

In the market full of options, this shed finds a space that balances affordability with reasonable quality, making it a solid contender in the realm of garden outbuildings.