Poly Outdoor Furniture - Is It All The Same?
When you're shopping for outdoor furniture, you've probably noticed the term "poly" popping up everywhere. Poly adirondack chairs, poly benches, poly tables—the options seem endless. But here's the question many customers ask: Is all poly outdoor furniture really the same? The short answer is no. Although most builders do use the same material (called "lumbar"), the final product varies greatly. Noticing and understanding the differences can help you make a smarter purchase.
What Exactly Is Poly Furniture?
Poly, short for polyethylene or HDPE is a type of plastic material used to manufacture outdoor furniture and decking. It's popular because it's durable, weather-resistant, and requires minimal maintenance compared to wood or metal. But not all poly furniture is created equal. The quality, manufacturing process, and design can vary significantly from one manufacturer to another.
Thickness and Construction Matters
Perhaps the most noticeable factor is how thick the poly material being used is. Thicker poly furniture tends to be more sturdy and resistant to warping or cracking. Beyond the durability factor, thicker poly provides a "bold" look that thinner poly furniture can't compare to. Some builders use solid poly throughout, while others use a hollow core design to reduce weight and cost. At WTrade Furniture, our builders use only solid, thick stock poly. The thicker material is one of our key advantages.
Color and UV Protection
Quality poly furniture includes UV inhibitors in the material to prevent fading and degradation from sun exposure. Budget-friendly options may skip this step, leading to noticeable color fading within a year or two. Premium poly furniture maintains its color much longer, even in direct sunlight. We have multiple pieces at our showroom that have been outside year-round for nearly 5 years now....you wont be able to tell them apart from brand new models.
Comfort and Design
Beyond the material itself, poly furniture varies in ergonomic design and comfort. At WTrade Furniture, our poly builders design from the ground up with comfort in mind. For example, all our chairs are designed to keep your feet planted on the floor, back supported and to be easy to get in and out of. Unique offerings such as lumbar-fan backrests allow for an ergonomic feel that many consider as comfortable as cushioned furniture.
Price Reflects Quality...But Don't Overpay
As with most products, you generally get what you pay for with poly outdoor furniture. Higher-quality poly pieces may cost more upfront, but they'll likely look better and last longer than cheaper alternatives. That being said, if you don't see a big difference in the product, you shouldn't on the price tag either. At WTrade furniture, we're certain you'll find a noticeable a difference in the quality of our product, all without the sticker shock.
Making Your Choice
When shopping for poly outdoor furniture, ask about the material composition, thickness, and UV protection. Check customer reviews for real-world durability feedback. And remember—the best poly furniture for you depends on your specific needs. Stop into our showroom in White Bear Lake and let us help you design your perfect outdoor space!