Mercia 8 x 6ft Wooden Double Storey Playhouse with Assembly

In-Depth Review of the Mercia 8 x 6ft Wooden Double Storey Playhouse with Assembly

When it comes to outdoor play for children, the Mercia 8 x 6ft Wooden Double Storey Playhouse stands out as a versatile option. This playhouse not only falls into the broad category of Playhouses but also effectively represents various subcategories such as Wendy Houses and Wooden Playhouses. Let’s dive into its design, construction quality, and overall market standing to see if it lives up to the hype.

Design and Construction Quality

First, the dimensions of the playhouse are 8′ x 6′, which provides ample space for children to play and use their imagination. The apex roofing style adds a touch of character, while also offering practical benefits like improved water drainage. The Mercia playhouse is built using shiplap tongue & groove cladding, which is proven to be one of the best choices for durability in playhouse walls, as it makes up around 59% of the analyzed playhouses in this category. This understanding gives buyers confidence that the playhouse can withstand children’s wear and tear.

However, expert evaluation places the quality of materials used at a score of 3.5 out of 5, which indicates a satisfactory but not exceptional use of materials. While the choice of European softwood is generally reliable, the dip-treated finish, although beneficial for longevity, is quite standard in this price range.

Windows and Ventilation

With 10 windows made of styrene, this brightly lit playhouse has the potential to be a delightful space for kids. Styrene as a glazing material is rated highly for safety and durability, as it is used in 100% of the top 10% of playhouses with window installations. This fact is particularly important for parents concerned about the potential hazards of traditional glass. While the average scoring for this type of window installation is impressive, this playhouse slightly trails with an expert score of 72.

Roofing Details

Using mineral felt as roofing material aligns with the trends found amongst top-rated playhouses, with 88% of the best options sporting this reliable covering. It has also become a standard choice due to its effective weather resistance, enhancing the overall longevity of the structure. However, be aware that the expert score for roofing is 1 point below average, suggesting that while the roofing is adequate, there may be superior options available.

Usability and Ease of Construction

Building the Mercia playhouse is rated with ease of construction at 3.5 out of 5, which means you should expect some challenges along the way. While assembly can be completed with basic tools, it may require some additional time and patience, especially for first-time builders. Nevertheless, the promise of the double storey design makes it enticing and worthwhile once completed.

Value for Money

In terms of pricing, the Mercia playhouse is listed at £1,150 from Wickes, which is roughly on par with its competitors. However, experts rated its value for money also at 3.5 out of 5. Although it is priced competitively, budget shoppers might find lower-cost alternatives that still offer comparable features. Before making a purchase, consider that while the quality is commendable, it might not equally align with every family’s budget.

Market Standing

Among 188 products in the Playhouses category, this playhouse holds a position at 88, indicating that it falls in the lower percentile of offerings. Given this market context, the merits of the Mercia playhouse become more apparent, as it still maintains solid features that many competitors might lack—particularly in structure and design integrity.

Final Thoughts

The Mercia 8 x 6ft Wooden Double Storey Playhouse with Assembly brings a delightful addition to any garden and offers an inviting space for children to play. While it does boast several high-quality features such as shiplap tongue & groove cladding, multiple windows, and a well-designed roof, prospective buyers should also weigh its materials and assembly complexity against overall cost and value. For those willing to invest in their child’s outdoor play experience, this playhouse serves as a promising contender—one that captures playful imagination within a respectable structure.

In conclusion, while it does not sit at the top of the market, the Mercia playhouse makes for a compelling option with its thoughtful design and functional features, ideal for active children who love to play outdoors.