Shire 7 x 6ft Crib & Bunk Wooden Playhouse with Double Side Door & Veranda

Expert Review of the Shire 7 x 6ft Crib & Bunk Wooden Playhouse with Double Side Door & Veranda

The Shire 7 x 6ft Crib & Bunk Wooden Playhouse stands out in the market of children’s outdoor play structures, offering a combination of functional design and playful aesthetics. Designed mostly for children, this model not only serves as a playhouse but could also be a delightful summer retreat in your backyard. Its thoughtful design includes an apex style roof, three windows, and double doors that open up to a welcoming space for little ones to explore. In this review, we’ll delve deeper into its features, material quality, construction, and market standing.

Key Features

• Dimensions: 7′ x 6′
• Roofing Style: Apex
• Cladding Material: European Softwood
• Treatment: Dip Treated
• Door Type: Double Door
• Windows: 3 single glazed windows

Materials and Construction Quality

When it comes to material quality, our experts rated the Shire playhouse a 3 out of 5 for materials used. The European softwood used for cladding is relatively average, with only 2% of playhouses analysed utilising this material. Unfortunately, it is also notable that this playhouse is the only one within its size category that employs European softwood. While it meets basic requirements, we found it lacking the robustness expected from competitive models that often feature higher-quality cladding material.

The playhouse earned a slightly better score of 3.5 out of 5 for construction quality. The structure is generally sound, benefiting from a dip treatment which is a favourable option among 82% of top-rated playhouses. This treatment helps protect it from the elements, ensuring longevity in the garden.

Roof and Window Analysis

In terms of roofing, the use of mineral felt as a covering is commendable and is featured in 88% of the top playhouses in the market. This adds an element of quality and durability that you’ll likely appreciate, helping shield the interior from rain and moisture.

However, the single glazed windows were rated unfavorably, with this type of glazing being used in only 3% of all windowed playhouses. In fact, none of the top 10% of models available feature single glazing, which’s a strong indicator of its lower desirability. It might be prudent to consider glazing options that offer greater insulation and safety for your children.

Value for Money

From a price perspective, the playhouse is currently available at a retail price of £1,095, notably £38 less than the average price for comparable models. Our experts gave it a solid 4 out of 5 for value for money, which reflects the balance of its features against the cost. The ease of construction scored a perfect 5 out of 5, making it an excellent choice for caregivers and parents looking to quickly set up a play environment.

Recommendations and Alternatives

We often recommend looking into alternatives, especially considering the specific needs you may have regarding durability and material quality. If you’re seeking better value or higher expert ratings, the 7 x 6 Shire Wigwam Childrens/ Kids Wooden Garden Playhouse is a notable competitor, priced at £680, offering an expert score that is 10 points higher than this model. This might save you a significant amount without sacrificing quality for your children’s playhouse experience.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Shire 7 x 6ft Crib & Bunk Wooden Playhouse brings a well-thought-out design that caters to functional play needs while maintaining a quality aesthetic. While there are areas where it could improve—particularly with the glazing and cladding materials—it scores well for value and ease of construction. We recommend considering your specific needs and comparing other models before making a purchase to ensure you invest in the best option for your outdoor play requirements.

Whether you choose this playhouse or an alternative, we hope you find a delightful retreat in your garden that empowers play and imagination for your little ones.