Polywood vs Timber Adirondack Chairs
Which Adirondack is Right for You?
Making the Right Decision
When it comes to choosing an Adirondack chair, there are two main contenders: the classic timber version and the modern Polywood version. Each has its own charm and unique benefits, making it tricky to decide which is the right fit for your outdoor space. In this article Peter and I will explore the pros and cons of both Polywood and timber Adirondack chairs, helping you find the perfect chair for your lifestyle.
Why Choose Timber Adirondack Chairs?
There’s something undeniably romantic about a timber Adirondack chair. The natural wood brings a warm, timeless appeal to any outdoor setting, making it feel cosy and inviting. For those who appreciate a traditional look and feel, timber chairs might be the ideal choice.
Here are a few reasons why you might lean towards a timber Adirondack chair:
Classic Aesthetic: Teak Adirondack chairs offer that authentic, rustic appeal. They age gracefully, developing a patina that adds character to your outdoor space.
Customisable: Timber chairs can be painted or stained to match your personal style. You have the flexibility to change their look whenever you want.
Craftsmanship: For many, the handcrafted quality of a wooden chair represents a true appreciation for craftsmanship and tradition.
Ideal for Covered Areas: If your outdoor space is sheltered, like a covered patio or deck, timber chairs can be a fantastic choice.
However, there are some considerations:
High Maintenance: Timber chairs require regular upkeep—sanding, staining, or painting every couple of years to prevent weather damage and wood rot.
Less Weather-Resistant: These chairs are susceptible to fading, cracking, and splintering when exposed to the elements, especially in harsher climates or coastal areas.
Weight: Some are very light and can be blown around.
Why We Recommend Polywood Adirondack Chairs
If we were choosing a new Adirondack chair today, we’d go for the HDPE plastic Adirondack chair, commonly known as Polywood. Why? Because it combines the classic style of timber chairs with the durability and ease of modern materials.
Here’s why Polywood chairs have quickly become our go-to recommendation:
Built to Last: Polywood chairs are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a material resistant to salt, sun, and rain. This means they won’t fade, crack, or splinter, no matter how harsh the weather gets.
Hassle-Free: Say goodbye to sanding, staining, and regular maintenance! With Polywood, you can enjoy your chair without the usual upkeep that comes with timber.
Eco-Friendly: Polywood chairs are made from recycled plastics, such as milk jugs and detergent bottles, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious buyers.
Sturdy and Stable: These chairs are heavy enough to stay put even in windy conditions, making them ideal for balconies, patios, or gardens.
Timber Lookalike: They have the classic look of wood without the need for constant care, maintaining their appearance for years. When we had them in our shop customers would not believe us when we said they were plastic.
The Role of Stainless Steel Hardware in Polywood Chairs
One of the key features that set Polywood Adirondack chairs apart is their use of stainless steel hardware.
Here’s why it matters:
Corrosion Resistance: Polywood typically uses 18-8 commercial-grade stainless steel hardware which includes an additional Xylan® protective and cosmetic coating. The stainless steel hardware is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it perfect for outdoor furniture exposed to moisture, humidity, and salty air—especially in coastal regions. Having said that we would still recommend those in salt air environments to wash their outdoor furniture with soap and water.
Durability: Stainless steel components are strong and can withstand heavy use without bending or breaking, ensuring that your chair remains sturdy and reliable over time.
Low Maintenance: Unlike other metals that may require regular treatment or replacement, stainless steel hardware is low maintenance, requiring no special coatings to remain functional.
Aesthetic Appeal: With a sleek, polished appearance, stainless steel with Xylan cosmetic coating complements the clean, classic look of Polywood chairs, enhancing their overall design.
Non-Reactive with Polywood Material: Stainless steel does not react with the HDPE plastic material used in Polywood chairs, preventing any discoloration or damage that might occur with other metals.
How Do They Compare?
Let’s break down the key differences between Polywood and timber Adirondack chairs:
Which Adirondack Chair is Right for You?
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and outdoor environment. If you love the classic, timeless feel of wood and don’t mind the maintenance, a timber Adirondack chair might be the perfect addition to your home. They’re great for covered areas or for those who enjoy a more hands-on approach to upkeep.
On the other hand, if you want the look of wood without the hassle, the Polywood Adirondack chair is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those living in coastal areas, busy individuals who want low-maintenance options, or anyone looking for a more eco-friendly alternative.
Our Top Tip:
Whatever type of Adirondack chair you choose, make sure it has a curved back and a rolled front edge on the seat. Without that rolled edge, you might find the seat digging into your legs—and comfort is key!
Why We Made the Switch to Polywood
We commercially chose to transition to Polywood Adirondack chairs after seeing how well they stood up to the elements on the Sunshine Coast. Our customers loved them for their durability, comfort, and sustainability, and we couldn’t agree more! We even recommended them to our neighbour, who quickly fell in love with the quality and style. We have to say, we’re a bit envious!
Where to Find Polywood Adirondack Chairs in Australia
We no longer have our shop front but if you’re interested in exploring Polywood options, we recommend going to our supplier direct, Poly Outdoors. Chris and Julie, the wonderful owners, offer a range of Poly HDPE Adirondack chairs and other Polywood outdoor furniture to the public. They’re great to deal with and are happy to answer any questions you might have. They are based in Melbourne but ship their furniture flat packed all over Australia at reasonable rates. Might I add they are extremely easy to assemble.
Looking for Coloured Adirondack Chairs?
Poly Outdoors chairs also come in a choice of colours as well as the classic white Adirondack.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a timber or Polywood Adirondack chair, both options bring their own unique benefits to your outdoor space. It’s all about finding the one that fits your needs and style. For more insights, check out our article on the [History of Adirondack Chairs] to learn more about this iconic piece of furniture and its journey through time.
Happy chair hunting, and remember, it’s all about finding the perfect chair for your perfect spot!
Curious to learn more about us and our passion for Adirondack chairs? We’re Peter and Cate, former retailers who now love sharing our knowledge to help you find the perfect outdoor furniture. Discover more about our journey and why we’re passionate about Polywood on our About Us page!