When shopping for wooden furniture, you are likely to encounter different types of wood. You may feel tempted to go with classic wood species like teak and mahogany. However, you cannot help but be curious about unusual varieties, such as poly teak. But what is poly teak exactly?
Poly teak refers to two different terms. First, it is a brand of wooden patio furniture that offers a wide range of products, from Adirondack chairs to side tables. Second, it refers to poly lumber material that replicates the natural texture and appearance of real teak wood.
This article will cover poly teak in more detail to help you understand this material. We’ll also compare it against genuine teak, so you can decide which one is best for you.
What Is Poly Teak?
PolyTeak or poly teak has two different meanings.
First, PolyTeak is a manufacturer in the outdoor furniture industry. It produces various wooden products, such as an Adirondack chair, a rocking chair, and a side table, that aren’t sourced from trees. It reinvents the way patio furniture pieces look and feel. The company is based in Santa Ana, California. It can ship items within the contiguous United States.
PolyTeak, the brand, uses poly lumber that is also called poly teak. It is a unique material that can withstand the harsh outdoors and different weather conditions. It also has natural moisture resistance and high durability. Plus, it mimics the natural appearance and grain of genuine wood without the high price tag.
Poly teak isn’t exclusive to PolyTeak, the brand. Many manufacturers also offer furniture collections made from polywood. It is a sustainable alternative to teak and other hardwoods because the material comes from recycled plastics. Polywood outdoor furniture also doesn’t require regular maintenance and remains beautiful for many years.
What Is HDPE?
If you’re considering poly teak furniture, you’ll probably come across HDPE or high-density polyethylene.
Most polywood outdoor furniture pieces are made of HDPE. This unique wood type doesn’t involve cutting down trees, so it prevents devastating effects on the ecosystem. Instead, HDPE uses recycled plastics from post-consumer and post-industrial sources, such as soft drink bottles and milk jugs. The result is high-performing and environmentally friendly lumber.
Polywood made from HDPE has all-weather durability, meaning it can withstand harsh winters and summers. The high-density material can also prevent cracks, splinters, and decay. And unlike natural wood, which is susceptible to insects, HDPE can effectively resist pests and other boring animals. It can ensure longevity.
Plus, it doesn’t need paints, stains, sealants, varnishes, and other maintenance products. This low-maintenance material can maintain its beautiful color and strength for several years.
On top of these benefits, high-density polyethylene is just as versatile as wood. It is suitable for any construction projects, such as boats, boardwalks, decks, and, of course, outdoor patio furniture.
Are They Different from Teak?
By now, you already know the answer to “What is poly teak?” Still, you may be curious to learn how different it is from genuine teak wood.
The major difference between the two is that poly teak or HDPE isn’t made of real wood that comes from trees. Instead, it uses recycled plastic to produce high-quality and durable lumber that can be adopted outdoors.
As such, poly teak doesn’t fade or weather like real teak furniture. It also doesn’t have the unique texture and appearance of genuine hardwood. However, it replicates the overall look of wood pretty well.
Polywood or poly teak also differs from real teal because it is virtually maintenance-free. There is no need to apply oils or varnishes to keep the surface in mint condition, unlike genuine teak that requires minimal maintenance.
Finally, poly teak furniture tends to be cheaper than teak pieces. You can have an attractive and sturdy patio furniture without breaking the bank.
What Are the Other Products You Can Get From PolyTeak?
PolyTeak is popular for its Adirondack chairs made from polywood. However, the company produces other outdoor furniture pieces for entertaining guests. These include outdoor patio rocking chairs, side tables, ottomans, and umbrellas.
PolyTeak also recently released covers that fit an Adirondack chair. These covers use water-repellant and weatherproof materials to protect your outdoor furniture from harsh weather conditions.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cheap and eco-friendly alternative to teak, consider poly teak. The term refers to two different things. First, PolyTeak is a brand of outdoor garden furniture. It produces durable pieces for your backyard. Poly teak is a general term for plastic lumber. Most poly teak items use high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which can effectively resist weather conditions without maintenance.
Do you have other questions about teak wood? Our blog page is full of information about teak furniture, so feel free to check it out!
