Polywood vs. Trex: Know the Real Difference

Thinking about upgrading your outdoor space, but not sure which furniture brand to go with? I’ve been there too. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re choosing between lasting picks like Polywood vs. Trex.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: materials, durability, cost, comfort, and eco-friendliness. You’ll also see how each brand holds up in different climates, who they’re best for, and a few solid alternatives you might not have considered.

If you want outdoor furniture that’s strong, stylish, and low-maintenance, this breakdown will help you choose what fits your space. Let’s take a look.

Polywood vs. Trex Brand Breakdown

When comparing Polywood and Trex, it helps to understand what each brand offers. Both are popular for outdoor furniture and materials, but they’re not the same. Let’s break down each one to see how they compare.

1. Polywood

Polywood uses HDPE, which stands for high-density polyethylene. This is a type of plastic made from recycled milk jugs and detergent bottles.

Key Features:

• Durability: Won’t crack, peel, or rot; great for all weather.
• Eco-Friendly: Made from 100% recycled plastics.
• Design: Looks like wood but lasts much longer. Available in many colors and styles.

2. Trex

Trex is best known for composite decking, which is made of wood fibers and plastic. The brand also offers outdoor furniture, but it’s not made by Trex directly.

Licensing with Polywood:

Trex furniture is made by Polywood under a licensing agreement. So, Trex furniture uses the same HDPE material as Polywood.

Key Features & Differences:

• Decking vs. Furniture: Trex builds decks; Polywood builds furniture. Trex furniture = Polywood product under the Trex name.
• Branding: Trex has strong name recognition in decking, while Polywood leads in outdoor furniture.

Polywood vs. Trex: Quick Overview

Here’s a quick look at how Polywood and Trex compare when it comes to outdoor furniture:

Feature	Polywood (Furniture)	Trex (Furniture)
Material	100% recycled HDPE plastic	Same HDPE material (made by Polywood under license)
Lifespan	15–20+ years	15–20+ years
Durability	Highly weather-resistant; won’t crack, peel, or rot	Same level of durability as Polywood
Price	$$ – Premium pricing for eco-friendly quality	$$ – Slightly higher due to Trex branding
Maintenance	Low – just wash with soap and water	Low – identical care requirements

As you can see, both offer similar quality and low-maintenance features, so your choice may come down to style, brand preference, or budget.

What Sets Them Apart?

While Polywood and Trex furniture use the same materials, a few things still make them different. Let’s break down what really sets them apart.

1. Design & Aesthetic Comparison

Polywood offers a wide variety of styles, colors, and finishes. It’s known for classic designs that suit most outdoor spaces.

Trex furniture often matches the look of Trex decking, making it a great option if you want a fully coordinated outdoor space. It leans more toward modern and sleek styles.

2. Durability & Weather Resistance

Both brands are extremely durable. They resist sun, rain, snow, and salty air. You won’t have to worry about peeling, cracking, or rotting.

However, Polywood furniture is often built a bit heavier, which helps it stay put in windy weather.

3. Maintenance Needs

Both require very little maintenance. A simple wipe with soap and water keeps them clean. No sealing, staining, or repainting needed.

They’re both great for people who want furniture that looks good without a lot of effort.

4. Fire Safety

Polywood and Trex furniture are made of HDPE plastic, which is not highly flammable but can melt if exposed to direct flames or extreme heat.

Keep furniture away from fire pits or grills to avoid damage. Neither is fireproof, so use caution during outdoor cooking or campfires.

5. Comfort & Usability

Polywood designs focus on comfort with wide armrests, curved seats, and sturdy frames. Many pieces also come with optional cushions.

Trex furniture offers similar comfort but may have fewer options in shape and size, depending on the collection. Usability is nearly the same between the two.

Cost and Value Overview: Polywood vs. Trex

Polywood and Trex are both considered premium outdoor furniture brands, and several shared factors shape their overall cost and value. Here’s a quick look at essential features:

Category	Polywood	Trex (by Polywood)
Initial Cost	Higher upfront investment	Similar pricing, often brand-influenced
Lifespan	15–20+ years	15–20+ years
Maintenance Costs	Very low (soap and water only)	Very low (same care routine)
Warranty	Typically up to 20 years	Comparable long-term coverage

Initial investment is higher than entry-level furniture but reflects quality and durability.

Long-term savings come from minimal upkeep and fewer replacements over time.

Budget Options

Polywood: Offers simpler collections at lower prices via retailers like Costco or Home Depot.

Trex: Fewer options, but still affordable basics with the same quality.

Some collections may offer more basic or minimal designs at lower price points. Differences in price are usually based on style, size, and branding, not material quality.

Resale Value

Both brands tend to hold their value well due to long lifespans and strong materials. Used pieces in good condition are often in demand, especially in local markets. Clean, lightly used items often resell for 50-70% of the original price.

In terms of value, both brands deliver long-term durability, low maintenance, and lasting appeal. The cost may be higher upfront, but the investment often pays off through years of reliable performance and retained resale value.

Sustainability Comparison

Both Polywood and Trex focus on using recycled materials, but their sustainability approaches have some key differences.

Recycled Content & Environmental Impact

Polywood uses 100% recycled HDPE plastic, mainly from milk jugs and detergent bottles, to make its furniture. This helps reduce plastic waste and keeps non-biodegradable materials out of landfills.

Trex, while best known for composite decking, also uses a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastics in its decking materials. Its furniture, however, is made by Polywood and uses the same HDPE plastic.

Both brands also use eco-conscious manufacturing methods and aim to reduce energy and water usage during production.

Which Is More Eco-Friendly?

In terms of furniture specifically, both are equally eco-friendly because they use the same recycled plastic materials. However, Polywood’s direct focus on furniture and recycling gives it a slight edge in branding as a green company.

If sustainability is a top priority, you can feel confident choosing either brand. They both help reduce waste and support long-term environmental responsibility through durable, recycled products.

Polywood vs. Trex: Which is Right for You

Not sure which brand to choose? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide based on your needs and lifestyle:

Climate

Harsh Weather (snow, salt air, strong sun): Both brands hold up well, but Polywood’s slightly heavier build may offer more stability in windy areas.

Mild or Dry Climate: Either brand will perform equally well with minimal care needed.

Budget

Tight Budget: Choose simpler designs or entry-level collections. Both brands offer quality that lasts, even in basic models.

Flexible Budget: If price isn’t a concern, go with the design or name that fits your overall outdoor space.

Style Preferences

Classic Look: Polywood offers a wide range of classic, traditional furniture styles.

Coordinated Outdoor Spaces: If you already have Trex decking, Trex-branded furniture may match better in color and design.

Pick the brand that fits your climate, budget, and design style best. Since both are durable, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance, you’re making a solid choice either way.

Alternatives Worth Considering

While Polywood and Trex are top choices, there are a few other brands worth checking out if you’re looking for similar quality and durability.

• Highwood: Made in the USA from recycled synthetic wood. Offers a natural look with a slightly softer finish and good weather resistance.
• Berlin Gardens: Uses poly lumber similar to Polywood. Known for comfort-focused designs and a wide color selection, including two-tone finishes.
• LuxCraft: Another poly furniture brand with a strong focus on craftsmanship and Amish-made quality. Often found in traditional and rustic styles.

These alternatives offer the same low-maintenance, long-lasting benefits. If you want more design variety or different finishes, they’re worth a closer look.

Conclusion

Now you’ve got a clear view of the key differences in Polywood vs. Trex, from materials and design to comfort, cost, and long-term value.

I’d suggest thinking about what matters most to you: your space, your budget, and your personal style.

If you’re going all-in on a full set or just picking up a couple of key pieces, this guide should help you feel more confident in your choice.

From my experience, both brands offer low-maintenance, weather-resistant furniture that’s built to last. You really can’t go wrong.

Need more help planning the right outdoor setup? Check out other blogs on the website for tips, product comparisons, and design ideas to keep the process simple.