POLYWOOD UK Review
Introduction
POLYWOOD is a brand specializing in garden furniture made from recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It mimics the aesthetics of classic wooden garden furniture while eliminating many of the weaknesses of wood materials. POLYWOOD furniture is durable, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain, making it popular in gardens, patios, coastal areas, and anywhere garden furniture needs to withstand the elements.
Brand Mission
POLYWOOD is committed to providing stylish, durable, and environmentally friendly garden furniture. The company focuses on transforming plastic waste into usable, long-lasting furniture to reduce environmental impact while offering furniture that will serve well outdoors for years. The goals include sustainability, weather resistance, ease of care, and a design that mimics natural wood without the maintenance.
POLYWOOD offers garden dining tables and sets in a variety of sizes. Whether small two-person sets or larger tables for six to eight people, these products are designed for outdoor use—no painting, staining, or annual sealing required.
Classic Adirondack chairs, benches, rocking chairs, and more comfortable seating are available. These are often used in lounge areas. The design is sturdy and features wide slats to create a wood look.
Larger benches and picnic tables are also part of the range and are aimed at family-friendly outdoor spaces.
Highlights
Made from recycled plastic (HDPE) for longer outdoor durability.
Highly weather-resistant: Won’t rot, warp, or splinter like wood.
Color doesn’t fade as quickly because the pigments are dispersed throughout the material.
Minimal maintenance – only occasional cleaning is required.
Rugged construction for coastal areas or harsh weather conditions.
A wide range of styles and colors.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Very durable outdoors; low maintenance; environmentally friendly (recycled materials); wide range of colors and styles; looks like wood without its weaknesses.
Cons
Higher initial cost; heavy items are difficult to move; rigid material can be less comfortable; some users report quality control issues. Cushions/accessories may wear out faster; customer service and assembly issues may occur in some cases.
Customer Reviews
Positive Feedback
Many users praise POLYWOOD furniture for surviving many seasons outdoors without significant wear and tear. Examples include backyards exposed to harsh winter and summer cycles without visible cracking or fading. Coastal garden owners have found that POLYWOOD furniture remains stable, unlike wood furniture, which ages. The “wood look without maintenance” aspect is often appreciated.
Constructive Feedback
However, several customers reported issues: missing or misaligned screw holes during assembly, mismatched screws, or defects in certain parts. Assembly can be challenging for larger tables. Some parts crack or warp under heavy load or high heat. Others report that the included cushions in some sets can stain, sag, or wear out faster than the furniture frames themselves. Warranty service is sometimes difficult to reach or slow.
FAQs
Is Polywood furniture truly weatherproof?
Yes. The HDPE material is moisture-, UV-, rot-, rust-, and insect-resistant.
Does it look like real wood?
Visually, yes. It has a wood-like texture and appearance, but feels different (more plasticky, more solid).
How do you clean Polywood furniture?
Simple cleaning with soap, water, and a soft brush or cloth is sufficient. No sealing or special treatment is required.
Is it environmentally friendly?
Yes. The furniture is made from recycled plastic and is designed to last for many years. This reduces waste, as wood or inferior outdoor furniture often needs to be replaced.
Is there a warranty?
Yes, many Polywood furniture pieces come with a long residential warranty. Terms vary depending on the model and seller.
Are the accessories (cushions, etc.) durable?
Cushions and soft accessories often require more care. They may not last as long as the frames and often wear out if not protected or stored properly.
Conclusion
POLYWOOD UK offers a range of garden furniture that is characterized by its durability, environmental friendliness, and ease of care. If you’re looking for garden or patio furniture that doesn’t require constant maintenance—no painting, staining, or worrying about rot—POLYWOOD is one of the best options. The wood look, combined with durability and sustainability, offers compelling value for money.
However, it’s not perfect. The initial cost is higher, some parts are heavy, assembly can be frustrating on some models, and accessories tend to be weaker. For those willing to pay more and accept occasional inconveniences with assembly or the quality of accessories, POLYWOOD is a wise long-term outdoor investment.
If I were designing a patio or garden and valued durability, ease of use, and good aesthetics, I would recommend POLYWOOD—provided I had realistic expectations regarding comfort, weight, and purchase price.
