Is polywood a good material for your patio?

Today, we’re talking polywood. Not plywood as our spell checker keeps trying to autocorrect it to!

Polywood is synthetic lumber engineered from recycled plastics, primarily high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which can be anything from old milk bottles to laundry detergent bottles.

There are several brand names on the market and terms that are used such as poly-lumber, HDPE lumber, recycled plastic lumber, weather-resistant plastic lumber, etc.

While they’re often used interchangeably, there can be slight variations in the specific composition and manufacturing processes between these brands and product types.

However, what all these different types of polywoods have in common, is the core characteristics of being durable, weather-resistant, and often made from recycled materials.

Along with decking and garden buildings such as sheds, wheelie bin cupboards, and storage cabinets, polywood is also increasingly used for patio furniture as an eco-friendly, easy-to-look-after, and durable alternative to natural wood.

What are the key features and benefits of polywood?

One of the big advantages it has over the real thing is that polywood is resistant to moisture, UV rays, salt, and extreme temperatures, making it highly suitable for outdoor use and the ever-changing moods of the UK climate.

It will not crack, splinter, or rot like traditional wood, and the better quality manufacturers will treat it with UV inhibitors, which helps to better maintain its colour. You can leave it outside under direct sunlight for long periods, and it will not fade as quickly as natural wood.

Much like our collection, plastic timbers require minimal maintenance. A regular wash with soapy water and a soft brush or cloth will keep it looking new. Unlike natural timbers, it will not require any waxing, staining, sealing, or painting to keep it weather-resistant, saving you money, time, and effort over the years.

And while we don’t think it looks as good as the real thing, it is now being moulded and dyed to create a pretty close resemblance to natural wood grain. Design and manufacturing are getting better at closely mimicking the texture, and while we wouldn’t say it has a natural appearance, the variety of colours and finishes is improving.

Of course, wood is a natural resource, so the focus of many polywood manufacturers is firmly on sustainable production practices, adding to its eco-friendly credentials and appeal.

What are the common uses for polywood in UK gardens?

Polywood's moisture resistance makes it a sensible choice for our climate and is now being widely used in the UK for several different patio products.

Here are some of the most popular applications found in UK gardens:

1. Garden Tables
   Polywood dining tables and chairs are popular because they mimic the look of wood to provide a set that is durable, hardwearing, easy to look after, and suitable for our wet and variable climate.

2. Garden Benches
   Polywood garden benches are another commonly used option in UK gardens, parks, and public areas. Designed to withstand our damp British weather, they last for many years with minimal upkeep.

3. Garden Sofas
   Polywood is also often used for garden sofas and modular seating sets on UK patios and decks, as it can endure rain, UV rays, and even frost. Less upkeep means more time to relax when the sun shines

4. Balcony Furniture
   For balconies and smaller rooftop gardens, Polywood is perfect for compact furniture such as foldable tables and chairs. The lightweight and minimal maintenance nature makes it ideal for urban settings where storage and upkeep are the primary concern.

5. Planters
   Polywood planters are also a popular choice, as they won’t rot or degrade, even if they are exposed to hot sun, moisture, and wet soil all year round.

6. Sun Loungers
   Polywood sun loungers and reclining chairs work well around pools and hot tubs because they resist water damage, salt spray, and pool chemicals, and they don’t fade as easily as natural wood.

7. Garden Storage
   From a garden storage bench to a bin store and garden cabinet, Polywood provides an easy-to-assemble weatherproof solution for storing outdoor items such as gardening tools and furniture cushions.

8. Garden Sheds
   Polywood garden sheds are also a popular choice for UK homeowners who want the look of a traditional wooden shed without all the maintenance. They are durable and require no treatment to remain rot-free and to protect what you store from the elements.

9. Trellises
   Polywood trellises, screens, and garden dividers provide the perfect durable structure for climbing plants and vines without the upkeep required for real wood.

10. Decking
    Polywood is a great option for decking in UK gardens, as it is highly resistant to moisture and algae, providing a slip-resistant and comfortable-to-walk-on surface that requires less upkeep than traditional lumber.

How does polywood compare to natural wood?

Polywood and natural wood each have their pros and cons, unique benefits and limitations, especially when considering them as a material for outdoor use.

The table below gives a detailed comparison of the two materials so you can decide which is best for the application you’re interested in:

Features	Polywood	Natural Wood
Material	Recycled plastic (HDPE)	Natural lumber from various tree types
Durability	Highly durable and weather-resistant	Varies by type with hardwoods more durable than softwoods
Maintenance	Needs a wash with warm soapy water) and can be left uncovered in winter.	All types will require regular oiling/ sealing/staining and we would recommend you cover in bad weather.
Aesthetic	Consistent wood-like appearance but can look and feel a little artificial.	Unique grain and a natural warmth that can last a lifetime if maintained properly.
Environmental Impact	Some types are eco-friendly and use recycled plastics.	Biodegradable and sustainable option if purchased from an ethical source.
Cost	Higher upfront, low long-term costs.	Varies by type but all will have higher maintenance costs.
Weight	Lighter than hardwoods but still substantial so can stand up to heavy winds.	Varies by species with hardwoods generally much heavier than softwoods.
Lifespan	Long-lasting with minimal ageing and fading.	Long-lasting with regular maintenance.
Best Use	Outdoor furniture and garden decor such as planters.	High-end outdoor furniture such as teak.
Repair/Refinishing	Limited repair options.	Easy to sand, repair and refinish.

Our final thoughts...

Polywoods are extremely durable and designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, and while natural woods vary, similarly priced hardwoods such as cedar will have a higher natural oil content to make them weather-resistant.

That said, most natural wood types will still need regular maintenance, like sealing and staining, to prevent damage from the sun and rain, and even then they can still swell, crack, or warp when exposed to the elements, especially sudden temperature fluctuations.

So while polywoods are ideal for outdoor use, as they offer high durability, and low upkeep, in a relatively eco-friendly package, natural wood remains the preferred choice for garden furniture where aesthetic, texture, and traditional craftsmanship are valued.

Both materials have their pros and cons, so the choice largely depends on your priorities such as the level of maintenance, the real versus fake look, and the environmental impact. We always advise customers to purchase styles and materials that best fit their lifestyle.

Polywood’s resistance to rot, moisture, and UV fading makes it highly practical for the UK’s unpredictable weather. It will not warp in damp conditions, nor does it crack or splinter in frost. The low-maintenance nature and ease of assembly are also attractive for those seeking to reduce garden upkeep.

However, whilst it is a versatile, practical, and stylish engineered material that’s increasingly popular in UK gardens for its eco-friendliness, longevity, and low maintenance, it doesn't have the natural warmth and charm of the real thing.

If you have our patio furniture, then we would love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.