If you’ve looked for furniture as part of a patio remodel, you’ve likely come across names like “poly lumber”, “poly plastic”, or “synthetic resin patio furniture.” It’s hard to tell what’s what given that some manufacturers use the terms interchangeably and others make them distinct things. We’ll be focusing on poly lumber furniture and what makes it such a good choice for your outdoor kitchen and patio.

What is Poly Lumber Furniture?

Poly lumber furniture is made from a material called high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This plastic is used for plenty of purposes, including furniture, food containers, toys, and much more. Most of the plastic used in poly outdoor furniture is recycled HDPE plastics from milk jugs and water bottles. The plastic gets melted down into a liquid form that can be extruded into different sizes. The material looks like wood and is used like wood to create unique pieces of furniture.

Poly lumber is a solid, colored material that is heavy enough to resist the elements and potential damage from scratches. One of the many benefits of poly lumber is that it helps preserve the environment by creating more uses for recycled plastic. Keep plastic out of landfills and use it for furniture and other consumer goods instead. One of the small downsides is that this material typically costs more than your average injection molded plastic furniture. This is because poly lumber is more durable, and it isn’t mass produced.

Poly lumber differs from poly resin patio furniture. Poly resin, also known as injection molded plastic, is made on an assembly line in factories where it is molded into tables, chairs, and other pieces of furniture on a mass scale. Poly lumber gets made up of smaller molds which are sent out to get hand-finished by professionals who make them look like wood.

Poly lumber also differs from poly plastic. This material has a rubbery or soft feel to it and can be used for certain types of patio furniture, but not the heavy-duty furniture that is typically made with HDPE.

The Benefits of Using Poly Lumber

Poly lumber, also known as plastic lumber, is a unique material. It is ideal for creating outdoor furniture because it is so visually appealing and resistant. This makes it an effective choice for landscaping as it can rise to meet any challenge thrown at it. Here are some of the benefits of poly lumber and why it makes such a great building material.

Resilience

One of the core strengths of plastic lumber is that it offers unparalleled resilience in outdoor environments. Given that the “wood” is made from HDPE plastics and not real wood, it isn’t susceptible to the same problems as wood, such as insects and other microorganisms eating and decomposing it. As a plastic, poly lumber is also unaffected by moisture, humidity, and precipitation.

Plastic lumber is tough enough to take even the heaviest load. It won’t splinter under pressure and so you can use it for just about everything from seating to countertops. Don’t worry if you live someplace sunny as you can apply extra UV resistance to prevent discoloring under the harsh glare of the sun.

Versatility

As plastic wood is made to mimic the real thing, it has the same level of versatility that makes it a great option for furniture and landscaping. If anything, it may offer more options than basic wood. Plastic wood is sold as ready-made furniture or as boards you can use to create your dream project. No matter whether you need a deck, a pergola, a porch swing, or an outdoor kitchen and patio, you can count on poly lumber to get the job done.

Adding to this versatility is that poly lumber comes in alternate forms that offer different benefits. For example, there are fiberglass strands that are tougher than regular poly lumber. These fortified versions are great for those times you aren’t sure basic plastic lumber will be enough.

Low Maintenance

One thing that makes poly lumber so attractive for furniture and landscaping is that it needs little to no maintenance over time. It takes a lot of effort to keep wood healthy, including staining and sealing. Wood must be protected against rot and the elements, but poly lumber doesn’t need any of that.

Outside of a bit of cleaning here and there to remove dirt and grime, there’s nothing overly complicated about taking care of poly lumber. You don’t have to worry about painting or repainting it either. Poly lumber is available in a variety of different colors, but they aren’t painted on. Rather, they are mixed into the plastic and are a natural part of it. The colors are inside the plastic and therefore are unaffected by wind, rain, and sunshine.

Trex is the Best Name in Poly Lumber

If you’re interested in interesting and unique outdoor seating ideas, then you should consider Trex outdoor furniture. Trex is the best name in outdoor furniture. Epitomizing style, durability, comfort, and performance, Trex has everything you need for an impressive patio.

Trex is known for being one of the biggest manufacturers of traditional wood alternatives for decking, fencing, and railing. The company now produces elegant and comfortable outdoor furniture including a range of unique and exclusive designs that are sure to complement any home, garden, or patio. Pick up a Trex porch swing, Trex chairs, and other poly outdoor furniture to bring your outdoor kitchen or garden to life.

Final Thoughts

Poly lumber furniture is a great choice for any patio remodel or update. It has the same look as wood but without any of the stressful maintenance. Plastic lumber is sturdier, more resilient, and requires less care. If you’re looking for some unique outdoor seating ideas, it doesn’t get much better than poly outdoor furniture. Poly outdoor furniture itself doesn’t get much better than Trex.