Kids' Playhouses: Ultimate Buyer's Guide
Tips for Choosing the Best Playhouse for Your Kids
Are you in the market for a children's playhouse? Perhaps your current model has seen better days. In either case, knowing what to look for in a quality design is crucial.
Wood or Plastic Playhouses?
The majority of playhouses are constructed from wood or a plastic material known as PVC. There are several benefits associated with each. Wooden models offer these advantages:
- Wood is an extremely durable material.
- Wood can be painted or stained to your liking.
- The structures themselves can last for years at a time.
However, wooden playhouses are heavier and more difficult to move. Wood will also require a fair amount of maintenance. On the contrary, here are some attributes of plastic playhouses:
- Plastic is lightweight and easy to move.
- It will not require much maintenance.
- Plastic models tend to represent more cost-effective options.
We still need to point out that plastic is not nearly as durable when compared to wood. Furthermore, these structures are normally difficult to customise.
Try to base your decision around the benefits and drawbacks of both materials mentioned above.
The Size, Dimensions and Configuration of the Playhouse
Playhouses are available in a kaleidoscope of sizes and dimensions. Some are comprised of a single storey while it is also possible to choose two-storey models. Those equipped with apex roofs tend to offer more headroom and they can also be used to add extra shelves for storage.
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As a general rule of thumb, it is wise to purchase a playhouse that is able easily accommodate two children. This will provide them with plenty of space to play and they are not as likely to outgrow the structure within a short period of time.
On a final note, determine if the unit can be customised or upgraded in the future (such as adding a trellis or a ladder) when needed.
What Will the Playhouse be Used For?
While playhouses are a great deal of fun, we need to remember that they are also intended to provide high levels of functionality. This is why it is crucial to determine what the structure will be used for. Is it intended to double as a simple outdoor home or might your children have other ideas in mind such as pretending that it is a space station or a rocket ship?
From dens made for arts and crafts to superhero hideouts, the options are nearly limitless. However, the configuration of the structure will obviously need to reflect such unique desires if you expect children to remain entertained.
Playhouse Safety
Safety is a paramount concern when discussing the features of any outdoor playhouse. Children may otherwise become unintentionally hurt. This is why any playhouse you choose should be EN71 certified (this ensures that it adheres to all current governmental regulations).
Some other signs of a secure structure include:
- Windows made from shatterproof vinyl or styrene.
- Gaps of at least 12 millimetres to ensure that fingers do not accidentally become wedged between two elements.
- Safety hinges on all windows and doors.
- No exposed nails or screws.
- Non-slip ladders (if relevant).
- Wood that has been smoothed so that no splinters are present.
There is simply no room for error in terms of safety.
The Available Space
On a final note, take a look at the footprint of the playhouse. This is the best way to guarantee that it will be able to fit within an allotted space in your garden. There should likewise be plenty of room around the exterior so that children can play unimpeded.
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