Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse

In-Depth Review of the Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse

The Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse is a charming addition to any garden, offering children a delightful space for imaginative play. With an apex roof and a variety of thoughtful features, this playhouse has made a name for itself within the Playhouses category. Having examined its specifications, expert ratings, and market performance, we aim to provide a comprehensive evaluation that will help you determine if it suits your family’s needs.

Key Specifications

• Dimensions: 7′ x 7′
• Roof Type: Apex
• Cladding Material: Shiplap Tongue & Groove
• Window Type: 5 Styrene glazed windows
• Treatment: Dip Treated
• Brand: Mercia
• Manufacturing Guarantee: 10 Years

Build Quality and Construction

With quality ratings reflecting its construction and materials, the Mercia playhouse has received scores of 4 out of 5 for both quality of construction and ease of construction. It features a solid build quality, primarily relying on shiplap tongue & groove cladding, which is highly regarded in the market. In our analysis, we found that this cladding type is utilised in 59% of similar playhouses, indicating it’s a widely trusted option.

While it scored a modest 3.5 for quality of materials, this figure can largely be attributed to the 12mm wall thickness, which is considered average for playhouses of this size. Nevertheless, the materials used still contribute to a durable design, and we feel confident in the longevity this playhouse can provide, especially given the 10-year guarantee.

Standout Features

This playhouse comes packed with features that stand out in the current market:

1. Apex Roof: The apex style roof not only adds aesthetic appeal but also aids in rainwater drainage, an important consideration for outdoor structures.
2. Styrene Glazing: The 5 windows are constructed from styrene, which is known for its safety compared to traditional glass. This feature is present in 94% of the top playhouses, ensuring peace of mind for parents.
3. Dip Treatment: The dip-treated process enhances resistance to rot, which is a prominent concern in wooden constructions. This treatment is used in 82% of the top 10% of playhouses, assuring buyers of the quality and durability.
4. PEFC Certified Timber: The sustainable sourcing of materials is a notable feature that can appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers.

Market Position and Value for Money

Positioned at a price point of £1,400, the Mercia playhouse is slightly below the average for comparable products. Our analysis shows that it is approximately £19 less expensive than the average for its peers while having a 4% higher Expert Score than average amongst the 27 similar playhouses we evaluated. This denotes competitive positioning in the market, where quality meets affordability.

However, if you’re looking for the best value or highest-ranking score, we recommend exploring alternatives that may offer better features for a lower price. For instance, the Mercia 10 x 5ft Wooden Snug Playhouse, priced at £700, offers a superior Expert Score of 85 and significant savings.

Customer Considerations

Parents should consider the following factors when purchasing the Mercia playhouse:

• Space Requirements: With a 7′ x 7′ footprint, ensure your outdoor space can accommodate its dimensions, allowing for safe play around the structure.
• Assembly: The ease of construction rating of 4 indicates that many users can assemble this playhouse without professional help, but prepare for slight logistical challenges, especially for novice DIYers.
• Durability: Be aware that, while the dip treatment helps combat wear, regular maintenance will prolong the life of this playhouse.

Conclusion

In summary, the Mercia 7 x 7ft Double Storey Swiss Cottage Timber Playhouse stands out for its appealing design, numerous safety features, and solid construction. The incorporation of materials that provide durability ensures that children can enjoy this space for years. While its market positioning provides some options for better price-quality ratios, this playhouse serves as a commendable.choice for families prioritising an engaging outdoor play environment.

Ultimately, we believe that this playhouse is a worthwhile investment that will provide countless hours of fun for children, fostering creativity and outdoor play. Should you choose the Mercia, you can rest assured in its quality and features, making it a playground gem in your garden.