What Is Polywood Furniture and Should You Get It for Your Home?

When it comes to contemporary furniture design, the marriage of sustainability and innovation has given rise to Polywood. Conceived from the amalgamation of “polymer” and “wood,” Polywood entails a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic composition sourced from recycled materials like milk jugs and detergent bottles.

This novel material has captured the imagination of many due to its potential to redefine outdoor furniture. In this blog, we will embark on an expedition into the world of Polywood, uncovering its essence and addressing a fundamental query: does furniture made from this substance genuinely possess the ability to withstand the elements and the tests of time?

What Is Polywood?

Imagine the heaps of post-consumer plastic—milk jugs, detergent bottles, you name it—that might end up in oceans or landfills. Now, picture them instead as a chic chair or a sturdy table in your backyard. That’s what polywood is! Through a process called extrusion, these materials are transformed into a durable and versatile lumber substitute. This process not only diverts plastic waste from landfills but also reduces the need for traditional wood, contributing to the conservation of forests.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Polywood is its resemblance to real wood. Manufacturers employ advanced techniques to replicate various wood species’ texture, color, and grain, providing a wide range of aesthetic options. This faux-wood appearance makes Polywood furniture an attractive choice for those who appreciate the natural look of wood but desire a more sustainable alternative.

How Is Polywood Furniture Made?

We start with bales of used plastic containers. Each bale is a mountain of around 10,000 single-use containers that have served their initial purpose. They are shredded down to manageable pieces, meticulously removing any non-plastic elements. What follows is a thorough cleaning process to ensure that only pure plastic makes it through. This shredded plastic is then turned into quarter-inch flakes, meticulously dried, and cleared of any remaining impurities.

The real transformation occurs when these clean flakes are melted and filtered. After they’re turned into fine pellets, they’re ready for the main event: becoming lumber. We add colorants and UV stabilizers to make sure they look great and last long under the sun. These pellets are then melted once more and extruded to form continuous boards of what we call our genuine lumber.

This lumber isn’t just left in long stretches. It’s cooled, cut into usable sizes, and then taken to our production lines, where it begins to take the shape of furniture. Every leftover piece from the cutting process goes back into the loop, where it’s recycled right back into new furniture.

Does Polywood Furniture Last?

Durability is crucial in evaluating any material, especially for outdoor furniture subjected to the elements. Polywood has gained a reputation for exceptional longevity, making it a popular choice for patio sets, porch swings, Adirondack chairs, and other outdoor furnishings. The combination of its plastic composition and UV-stabilizing additives allows Polywood furniture to resist the effects of sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures.

Unlike traditional wood, Polywood does not splinter, crack, or warp over time. Its rot, corrosion, and insect damage resistance ensures that the furniture maintains its structural integrity even after years of exposure to the elements. This durability makes Polywood an appealing investment for those seeking furniture that will withstand the rigors of outdoor living.

While Polywood furniture is designed to endure the elements, some maintenance is required to ensure longevity. Fortunately, this maintenance is minimal compared to that of traditional wood furniture. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient to remove dirt and stains. Unlike wood furniture, Polywood does not require periodic sealing or painting, as its color is integrated throughout the material rather than applied as a surface finish.

Other Benefits of Polywood

Beyond its durability, Polywood’s eco-friendly attributes are central to its appeal. Using recycled plastic in its production, Polywood helps reduce the demand for virgin plastics and diverts post-consumer waste from landfills. Furthermore, the manufacturing process of Polywood generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional wood furniture production.

The longer lifespan of Polywood furniture also contributes to its lower environmental impact. Traditional wood furniture often requires replacement after years of exposure to the elements, leading to increased resource consumption and waste. In contrast, Polywood’s longevity minimizes the need for replacement, reducing its overall carbon footprint.

Polywood furniture boasts durability and sustainability and offers various styles to suit various design preferences. Whether you’re aiming for a classic, rustic, or contemporary look, there’s likely a Polywood option that aligns with your vision. The ability to mimic the appearance of different wood species, combined with various color options, allows homeowners and designers to select pieces that seamlessly integrate with their outdoor spaces.