As someone who has spent a considerable amount of time exploring the world of outdoor furniture, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand the offerings of two renowned brands: POLYWOOD and By the Yard. Allow me to share my personal insights and experiences with you.
Here’s a detailed comparison table between POLYWOOD and By the Yard:
| Feature | POLYWOOD | By the Yard |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Uses High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic lumber, which is environmentally friendly and highly durable | Offers a variety of materials including teak, wicker, and aluminum, providing a wide range of choices |
| Durability | Extremely durable and weather resistant, capable of withstanding various weather conditions without losing its color or structure | Durability varies by material. Teak is very durable, but other materials like wicker may require more maintenance |
| Maintenance | Virtually no maintenance needed. Simple soap and water cleaning is all it needs to keep it looking like new | Maintenance requirements vary by material. Teak and wicker require seasonal cleaning and sealing to maintain their luster |
| Style | Has a signature POLYWOOD look across collections, offering a consistent aesthetic | Offers a wide range of styles across 200+ collections, allowing for a high degree of customization |
| Comfort | Offers moderate comfort with its flat plastic lumber seats. While not plush, the seats are sturdy and reliable | Provides superior comfort with the availability of plush cushions. The level of comfort can be customized based on personal preference |
| Price | Quite affordable, with pieces starting around $200, making it a great choice for those on a budget | More expensive, with most furniture pieces priced over $1,000, reflecting the high degree of customization and luxury it offers |
| Custom Options | Offers limited custom options, mostly to colors and sizing | Provides a high degree of customization, with cushions and covers fully customizable |
| Shipping | Ships from POLYWOOD or local dealers, offering flexibility in delivery | Ships nationwide directly from By the Yard, ensuring a seamless delivery experience |
| Warranty | Offers an impressive 20-year warranty for residential use, providing peace of mind | Warranty varies by collection and manufacturer, reflecting the variety of materials and styles it offers |
My Journey with POLYWOOD
My encounter with POLYWOOD began when I was searching for durable and low-maintenance outdoor furniture. POLYWOOD, with its High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic lumber, immediately caught my attention. I was impressed by how this material, while being environmentally friendly, was also incredibly resilient against various weather conditions.
I remember one particular POLYWOOD Adirondack chair that I had in my backyard. Come rain, snow, or sunshine, the chair stood its ground, its color and structure unaffected. The maintenance was a breeze. All it took was a simple wipe-down with soap and water, and the chair looked as good as new.
The comfort level, while not luxurious, was solid and reliable. The flat plastic lumber seats were sturdy and offered a decent level of comfort. What really appealed to me about POLYWOOD was its affordability. With pieces starting around $200, it was a great fit for my budget. However, I did find the custom options to be somewhat limited, mostly to colors and sizing. But the impressive 20-year warranty for residential use more than made up for it.
My Experience with By the Yard
My journey with By the Yard, on the other hand, was quite different. This brand appealed to my love for variety and customization. With materials ranging from teak and wicker to aluminum, By the Yard offered a plethora of choices.
I recall a teak dining set I had from By the Yard. The robustness of the teak was evident, and it added a touch of elegance to my outdoor space. However, it did require more maintenance compared to POLYWOOD. Seasonal cleaning and sealing were necessary to maintain its luster.
What set By the Yard apart for me was its wide range of styles and the superior comfort it offered. I particularly loved a plush cushioned sofa set from one of their collections. It was the epitome of outdoor luxury. But this luxury came with a higher price tag, with most pieces priced over $1,000. The ability to fully customize cushions and covers, however, made it worth the investment.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, my journey with both POLYWOOD and By the Yard has been unique and enlightening. If you’re seeking durability, simplicity, and affordability, I would personally recommend POLYWOOD. But if you, like me, value a wide array of styles, materials, and the ability to customize, and you’re willing to invest more and don’t mind a bit of maintenance, By the Yard could be your perfect match.
Remember, the best outdoor furniture is the one that fits your lifestyle and brings you joy every time you step into your outdoor space. So take your time, do your research, and choose the furniture that feels right for you. Happy shopping!
