When you are looking for a playhouse for your garden, you want something that will last and keep your children safe. A good playhouse is more than just a place to play. It is a space where children can use their imagination, spend time outdoors, and stay active.
At Poulton Portables, we have been making playhouses in Essex since 1951. We build each one with care, using the same high standards we use for all our garden buildings. This means your children get a playhouse that is strong, safe, and built to last for years.
Why Children Need Outdoor Play
Playing outside is really important for children’s health and development. When children spend time outdoors, they get exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. They also learn to explore, solve problems, and build confidence.
Government health guidance shows that outdoor play helps children stay fit and healthy. The NI Direct website explains that when children play outdoors, they benefit from running, climbing, and jumping, which develops their coordination, balance, and strength. Time spent outside also helps with eye health and gives children space to let off steam.
A playhouse in your garden makes it easy for children to play outside every day. It becomes their own special space where they can create games, have adventures, and enjoy being outdoors in all seasons.
What Makes a Good Playhouse?
Not all playhouses are the same. Here are the key things to look for when choosing one for your family:
Safety Features That Matter
Safety should always come first. Good playhouses have features built in to protect children:
Polycarbonate windows are much safer than glass. They do not shatter if a ball or toy hits them. They also let plenty of natural light inside whilst keeping the playhouse weatherproof.
Non-locking door handles are essential. Children can never get accidentally locked inside, and parents can always open the door quickly if needed. This simple feature gives everyone peace of mind.
Smooth timber with no sharp edges means children can play safely. Quality construction with properly sanded and finished wood prevents splinters and scratches.
Build Quality and Materials
The materials used to build a playhouse make a big difference to how long it lasts. At Poulton Portables, we always use quality Redwood Pine timber. This is much stronger and longer lasting than cheaper woods like larch.
Our playhouses are built using proper construction methods. Each joint is made carefully, the roof is weatherproof, and the floor is solid. We build them the same way we build our summer houses for adults, which means they are made to last.
Size and Space
Playhouses come in different sizes to fit different gardens and families. Think about:
- How many children will use it
- The age of your children (older children need more space)
- How much room you have in your garden
- What activities they will do inside
A playhouse should have enough space for children to stand up, move around, and play comfortably. But it should not take up your whole garden either.
Popular Playhouse Designs
Different families need different playhouses. Here are some popular styles:
Classic Cottage Style
This traditional design looks like a mini house with a pitched roof and windows. It fits well in most gardens and gives children plenty of room to play.
Adventure Style
Some playhouses have extra features like small verandas or platform areas. These create more play opportunities and work well if you have the space.
Custom Designs
Because we make each playhouse individually, we can adapt the design to suit your needs. Want a certain size? Need the door on a different side? We can build it that way.
Choosing the Right Size
Here is a simple guide to help you pick the right size:
| Playhouse Size | Best For | Typical Features |
|---|---|---|
| 4ft x 4ft | Younger children (3-6 years) | Cosy space, easy to fit in small gardens |
| 6ft x 4ft | Children aged 4-8 years | More room to move, space for toys |
| 6ft x 6ft | Children aged 5-10 years | Plenty of standing room, can fit small furniture |
| 8ft x 6ft | Older children or multiple children | Spacious interior, room for activities |
Remember, children grow quickly. If you have space, choosing a slightly larger playhouse means they can use it for more years.
How We Build Our Playhouses
Every playhouse we make starts as quality timber. Our skilled craftsmen, working in Danbury, Essex, carefully cut and assemble each piece. We have been doing this since 1951, and the experience shows in every building we create.
Here is how we work:
- We discuss your needs and measure your space
- We build the playhouse at our workshop using proper joinery techniques
- We treat all the timber to protect it from weather and insects
- We deliver and install it in your garden
- We make sure everything is secure and safe
You are involved in each step. We want to make sure you get exactly what your family needs.
Colours and Finishes
All our playhouses come with one coat of wood treatment in your choice of colour. We use Barrettine wood preservers which protect the timber and give it a lovely finish. You can choose from natural wood tones like Red Cedar, Golden Brown, or Clear, or pick brighter colours like Holly Green or Black.
If you want something special, we also offer Farrow & Ball exterior paints. These premium paints last up to six years and come in beautiful colours.
Looking After Your Playhouse
A well-built playhouse needs very little maintenance, but a few simple steps will keep it looking good:
- Check the roof and door seal once a year
- Add a fresh coat of wood treatment every 2-3 years
- Keep leaves and debris swept away from the base
- Make sure drainage around the playhouse is good
With basic care, your playhouse will stay strong and weatherproof for many years.
Why Choose Local Essex Builders?
When you choose Poulton Portables, you support a local Essex business that has been here for over 70 years. We are a family-run company, and we take pride in every building we make.
You can visit our show site in Danbury to see examples of our work. You can talk to us face to face about what you need. And if you ever need help or advice after your playhouse is installed, we are just a phone call away.
We are part of the Essex community, and we have built playhouses (and sheds, summer houses, and garages) for families across the county. That local connection matters.
Getting Started
If you are ready to give your children their own outdoor space, we can help. Getting started is easy:
- Visit our show site in Danbury to see examples
- Talk to our team about what you need
- We will discuss size, design, and options with you
- We will give you a clear price
- We will arrange a delivery and installation time that suits you
You can also call us on 01245 222550 or email [email protected]. We are here Monday to Friday, 8am to 4:30pm, and we always welcome questions.
Final Thoughts
A playhouse is more than just a garden building. It is an investment in your children’s happiness, health, and development. It gives them somewhere special to play, learn, and grow.
When you choose a playhouse from Poulton Portables, you get quality Essex craftsmanship, safe design features, and a building that will last. We have been making garden buildings since 1951, and we know what makes a good playhouse.
Our team at Poulton Portables is ready to help you create the perfect outdoor play space for your children. Visit us in Danbury, give us a call, or send us an email. We would love to help your family get more outdoor play time.