When you’re looking to get some fantastic outdoor furniture, your attention might be drawn to Polywood. It’s some of the most well-known and best quality outdoor furniture on the market.
However, many outdoor products can fade when exposed to the sun and some get extremely hot.
Polywood furniture does not fade in the sun and will not get too hot either. However, there is much more to it than this.
This handy guide explains much more about Polywood and its relationship with the sun. Read on to learn more.
What Is Polywood?
It’s first a good idea that we explain what Polywood is exactly. Polywood is a brand of outdoor furniture
that is made using high density polyethylene (HDPE). This is a type of plastic that is extremely durable and robust.
Their designs are often modelled on classic American furniture styles. Adirondack chairs anyone. They are also made and manufactured in the United States.
Specifically, Polywood is manufactured in Syracuse, Indiana and all of the components used in construction are sourced in the United States. In fact, a lot of the materials used are recycled materials which again, are sourced locally.
Over 400,000 previously used plastic materials are taken in and repurposed for the outdoor furniture, after a process of cleaning, shredding, grinding and sorting.
The material HDPE is itself recyclable – so while your outdoor furniture will last a heck of a long time, it can be repurposed in the future.
Polywood Furniture And The Weather
One of the key questions you’ll be asking yourself when you’re looking at purchasing outdoor furniture is how they last and deal with the elements.
Polywood furniture can withstand almost any weather type. When it comes to the sun, the pigments used within the material are used with the intention to prevent fading from the sun’s rays. This is not just surface level like paint but the entire material.
However, it will not fully protect it – so some people decide to cover their outdoor furniture with sheets or towels when they’re not in use, just to give the furniture a little extra protection and prolong its look.
When it comes to the heat from the sun, Polywood can deal with it. Its design and materials allow the furniture to be UV (ultra violet) resistant.
This means the sun’s heat dissipates quickly – so polywood furniture does not necessarily get hot in the sun, but it will get warm. A cushion can make them even more comfortable in the heat.
You may wish to cover your furniture when not in use to minimize the sun’s impact.
Polywood furniture can even cope with strong winds and heavy rain. It is waterproof and generally, the furniture is heavy enough to not fly around your yard. A typical polywood chair weighs between 30 and 50 pounds. Tables weigh even more.
Having said this though, in very extreme circumstances – it’s probably a good idea to bring in your outdoor furniture or otherwise tie them down in your yard.
Garage space for outdoor furniture in the off-season is still a good idea. Or at least a cover when the snow flies.
Will The Sun Cause The Color To Fade?
While the furniture is UV resistant and the pigment can help prevent fading – over time, you will start to notice fading in the colours.
So, as we previously mentioned – it’s probably best that you either cover your outdoor furniture when not in use or bring it inside.
Personally, I prefer covers because they are heavy and bulky to move around. Not to complain, but my garage is in the front of the house, and my deck is in the back. Covering it on the deck is so much easier.
If possible, try to avoid leaving your Polywood furniture in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.
Can Polywood Burn Or Melt?
Due to the use of HDPE, the sun will not cause your Polywood furniture to burn or melt. In fact, it’s been shown that Polywood furniture can withstand years of exposure to the sun without either burning or melting.
However, it’s important to note that aesthetically, your Polywood furniture will have marks and spots if it is exposed to extreme heat temperatures such as fires or explosions.
How Long Will Polywood Furniture Last?
The manufacturers have a lot of confidence in their products and provide a guarantee of 20 years of residential use, so long as the furniture is used in a normal setting and under normal service conditions.
It should not have trouble with peeling, cracking, splitting or infestations from bugs. However, if you want to really prolong the life of your furniture, you will need to look after it.
Caring For Polywood Furniture
Here are a few things you should remember if you want to keep your Polywood furniture going for a long time. Here are some handy tips.
Cover Or Protect
The first thing you can do is something we’ve previously discussed. When the furniture is not in use, you should cover it or bring it inside.
While the furniture is created to be resistant to most weathers, including the sun – doing this will ensure a longer life, including the colour.
Do Not Paint
Some people choose to refinish their furniture if the sun has caused even a slight discoloration to the finish. However, if you’re choosing to do this – know that it will void Polywood’s warranty.
So not recommended. If you do, it needs to be primed before you apply paint.
But again, not recommended.
Avoid Weighty Objects
While Polywood furniture is tough and durable, it’s not advisable to leave heavy objects on them for very long periods of time.
If you plan to take your furniture indoors, ensure you’re giving it plenty of space so you do not need to place anything on the furniture.
Keep It Clean
Polywood furniture products are rot-resistant and insect-proof, but they will do much better and avoid these problems much more easily if you keep them clean.
Keep the furniture clean, which is pretty easy with Polywood, and always inspect it for any problems.
The Bottom Line
Polywood is pretty tough, but it’s not immortal. It will deal with the heat and prevent fading and extreme temperatures, but over time it will show discoloration. Looking after your furniture will keep it going for longer.
