As someone who has spent countless hours researching, buying, and enjoying outdoor furniture, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances that differentiate one brand from another. Today, I’d like to share my personal experiences with two brands that have caught my attention: Polywood and DuraWeather.
Comparison table between Polywood and DuraWeather:
| Aspect | Polywood | DuraWeather |
|---|---|---|
| Constituent Material | Crafted from HDPE poly lumber, a blend of recycled plastic and natural additives. | Utilizes a unique PermaPoly resin formula, a concoction of synthetic polymers and inorganic fillers. |
| Resistance to Weather Conditions | Exhibits exceptional resilience against various weather conditions including sun, rain, snow, salt, heat, and cold. | Showcases remarkable durability against all elements. Notably, it remains cool even under hot, direct sunlight. |
| Hardware Used | Makes use of marine-grade stainless steel and zinc coated steel. | Employs marine-grade stainless steel and zinc-coated steel. |
| Resistance to Fading | Employs marine-grade stainless steel and zinc coated steel. | Exhibits good resistance to fading, although not as long-lasting as Polywood. |
| Variety in Styles | Offers a wide array of collections ranging from modern to classic looks. | Makes use of marine-grade stainless steel and zinc-coated steel. |
| Comfort Level of Chairs | Features a slatted appearance without the flex characteristic of real wood. | Offers better flex and “give”, closely resembling natural wickers. |
| Table Top Characteristics | Provides a harder surface, ideal for dining purposes. | Offers more resilience and flex, enhancing casual comfort. |
| Cleaning Ease | Resists most dirt and spills, requiring only basic wipe downs. | Resists most dirt and spills, requiring only basic wipe-downs. |
| Price Range | Falls in the mid-upper tier pricing, offering excellent value for its longevity. | Falls in the budget-mid tier pricing, offering great value at lower price points. |
| Warranty Period | Offers a 20-year residential warranty. | Offers a 10-year residential warranty. |
| Eco-Friendliness | Made from recyclable material, aligning with eco-conscious values. | – |
| Longevity | The long lifespan of outdoor poly furniture contributes to waste reduction as it doesn’t need to be replaced as often as other types of outdoor furniture. | – |
| Ergonomic Design | – | Each chair is ergonomically designed to provide optimal comfort. The smooth finish and contoured design ensure a comfortable seating experience. |
| Versatile Styling | – | With a range of styles and colors, outdoor poly furniture caters to diverse aesthetic preferences. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Although the initial investment may be higher, the long-term benefits of reduced maintenance, durability, and timeless style make HDPE furniture a cost-effective choice. | – |
Let’s start with Polywood. I was initially drawn to this brand because of its commitment to sustainability. Their furniture is made from HDPE poly lumber, a material derived from recycled plastic and natural additives. But it’s not just the eco-friendly aspect that impressed me. The durability of Polywood furniture is truly remarkable. I have a set of Polywood Adirondack chairs in my backyard that have withstood several seasons of harsh weather, yet they look as vibrant as the day I bought them. This is due to Polywood’s exceptional resistance to fading, a feature that sets it apart from many other brands.
Polywood also offers a wide variety of styles. I’ve decorated my patio with their modern South Beach collection, and my garden with their traditional Chippendale dining set. The versatility of their collections allows me to create different vibes in different outdoor spaces.
However, what truly won me over was Polywood’s 20-year residential warranty. It’s a testament to the brand’s confidence in the longevity of their products and gives me peace of mind knowing that my investment is protected.
On the other hand, DuraWeather has its own unique charm. The brand uses a proprietary formula called PermaPoly for their furniture. This material, which contains a high concentration of synthetic polymers mixed with inorganic fillers, is not just durable but also surprisingly comfortable. I have a DuraWeather Kingston deep seating set on my deck, and the comfort it offers is unparalleled. The furniture has a certain flex and “give” that closely mimics the comfort of natural wickers.
What I love about DuraWeather is the customization options it offers. I’ve been able to personalize my outdoor spaces with their wide range of cushions and accent pieces. This is a great feature for someone like me who enjoys changing up the decor with the changing seasons.
In terms of price, DuraWeather falls in the budget-mid tier range, making it a great choice for those who are budget-conscious. However, it’s important to note that their residential warranty is for 10 years, half of what Polywood offers.
In conclusion, both Polywood and DuraWeather are excellent choices for outdoor furniture, each with its unique strengths. If fade resistance and style variety are your top priorities, Polywood is the way to go. However, if comfort and customization ability are more important to you, DuraWeather would be a better fit. As always, consider your specific needs and preferences when making your choice. Happy decorating!
