Polywood furniture and poly lumber furniture, also referred to as HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) plastic furniture, is synonymous with durability, style, and sustainability. Whether you’re considering an Adirondack chair or a full patio dining set, you’ve likely noticed that these pieces carry a higher price tag compared to other outdoor furniture options. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the factors contributing to the cost of polywood and poly lumber furniture and explain why it’s an investment worth making.

Polywood and poly lumber furniture are crafted from HDPE plastic, a durable material made from recycled items like milk jugs, detergent bottles, and other post-consumer plastics. This furniture mimics the look and feel of natural wood but boasts significantly greater durability and resistance to environmental wear and tear.

Unlike traditional wood furniture that can warp, rot, or crack over time, polywood furniture is designed to withstand extreme conditions—be it freezing winters, humid summers, or salty coastal air. It’s this combination of quality, sustainability, and resilience that makes polywood and poly lumber so sought after.

1. Premium Materials

The core ingredient of polywood and poly lumber furniture—HDPE plastic—is not your average plastic. It undergoes a rigorous recycling process to ensure it’s of the highest quality, free of contaminants, and capable of enduring outdoor conditions for decades.

• Cost of HDPE Plastic: A 3/4" x 48" x 96" HDPE sheet can cost around $545, whereas a comparable sheet of fir plywood costs about $51. This stark difference in material cost plays a significant role in the price of polywood furniture. (Source: Decks by E3)
• UV Stabilizers and Additives: To maintain color vibrancy and prevent fading, manufacturers add UV stabilizers and other enhancements to the HDPE, increasing material costs.

2. Advanced Manufacturing Process

Transforming recycled HDPE plastic into polywood furniture is a highly technical and labor-intensive process.

• Recycling and Extrusion: Recycled plastic is collected, cleaned, shredded, and melted before being molded into poly lumber. This process involves advanced equipment to ensure uniformity and strength in the final product.
• Craftsmanship: Many pieces are hand-finished or assembled with precision to ensure the highest quality, adding to labor costs.

3. Durability and Longevity

One of the standout features of polywood and poly lumber furniture is its ability to last for decades without showing significant wear.

• Weather Resistance: Polywood is impervious to moisture, salt, and insects, making it ideal for all climates. Unlike wood, it doesn’t crack, warp, or rot.
• Cost Per Use: While the upfront cost is higher, the longevity of polywood furniture means you’re making a long-term investment. A chair that lasts 20 years is significantly cheaper per year of use compared to replacing wood furniture every 5 years.

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Polywood and poly lumber furniture are crafted from recycled plastics, making them one of the most environmentally friendly options available.

• Reduction in Plastic Waste: By converting post-consumer waste into durable furniture, manufacturers help reduce landfill and ocean pollution.
• Energy-Intensive Recycling: The processes of sorting, cleaning, and extruding recycled plastic are costly but crucial for sustainability.

5. Low Maintenance Requirements

Another key reason for the higher price tag is the low maintenance required for polywood furniture.

• No Staining or Sealing: Unlike wood furniture, which needs regular upkeep to maintain its appearance, polywood furniture only requires occasional cleaning with soap and water.
• Long-Term Savings: The lack of ongoing maintenance costs makes polywood furniture a smart investment.

6. American-Made Craftsmanship

Polywood and many poly lumber furniture brands are manufactured in the United States, where labor and material costs are higher compared to overseas production. While this increases the price, it also ensures better quality control, adherence to environmental regulations, and support for local economies.

Although polywood and poly lumber furniture are more expensive upfront, they offer unparalleled value in the long run. Here’s why:

• Durability: Lasts decades with minimal wear and tear.
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces plastic waste and supports sustainable practices.
• Cost Savings: Eliminates frequent replacement and maintenance costs.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Mimics the look of wood without the downsides of fading or rotting.

1. Shop Sales: Keep an eye out for discounts during holidays like Memorial Day or Black Friday, Labor Day, etc.
2. Buy in Sets: Purchasing a dining or seating set sometimes may offer more economical than buying individual pieces.
3. Look for Seconds: Although we would never sell a “scratch and dent” item. Sometimes we do get a return from a customer that the color did not match their environment and returned the product. We do 'sometimes' get furniture like this. It's best to reach out to our customer service to see if any are avaiable.

Polywood and poly lumber furniture may come with a higher price tag, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. From premium materials and sustainable manufacturing processes to unmatched durability and aesthetic appeal, this furniture is built to last a lifetime. Investing in polywood furniture means you’re making a choice that’s good for your home and the planet.

If you’re looking for outdoor furniture that combines style, resilience, and eco-friendliness, polywood and poly lumber options are the way to go.