Choosing the right material for your outdoor furniture is one of the most important decisions you will make. The material affects everything from how long your furniture lasts to how much maintenance it requires, and even how it looks on your porch. Let us break down the three most popular options: teak, poly lumber, and traditional hardwood.
For premium durability, try our Teak Carolina Rocking Chair in beautiful aged teak. Our low-maintenance Heritage Adirondack Swivel Glider Chair resists weather year-round.
Understanding Teak: The Premium Choice
Teak has long been considered the gold standard for outdoor furniture, and for good reason. This dense hardwood contains natural oils that make it remarkably resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage. When you invest in teak outdoor furniture, you are getting a material that can last for decades with minimal care.
What sets teak apart is its remarkable durability combined with timeless beauty. Over time, teak develops a beautiful silver-gray patina that many homeowners find desirable. However, if you prefer to maintain its original honey-brown color, you can apply teak oil periodically.
The weight of teak is significant—it is a heavy, solid wood that stays in place during windy conditions. This stability makes it excellent for rocking chairs, where a solid feel enhances the rocking experience.
Poly Lumber: The Modern Marvel
Poly lumber, also known as polywood or HDPE lumber, represents the evolution of outdoor furniture materials. Made from recycled high-density polyethylene plastic, poly lumber offers remarkable weather resistance without the maintenance requirements of natural wood.
Our poly lumber rockers will not rot, splinter, crack, or fade. They are completely immune to moisture damage, making them ideal for areas with high humidity or frequent rain. Unlike wood, poly lumber does not require any sealing, staining, or painting.
One of the biggest advantages of poly lumber is its color consistency. The color goes all the way through the material, so scratches and wear are virtually invisible. You can leave poly furniture outside year-round in any climate, from scorching summers to freezing winters.
Poly lumber is also an environmentally friendly choice. Many products are made from recycled materials, keeping plastic out of landfills. You get beautiful, durable furniture while making a sustainable choice.
Traditional Hardwood: Classic American Craftsmanship
There is something irreplaceable about genuine hardwood. Woods like oak, ash, and cypress have been used for furniture for centuries, and they bring a warmth and character that engineered materials cannot match.
Traditional hardwood rocking chairs offer unique grain patterns and natural beauty that make each piece one-of-a-kind. Many homeowners prefer the look and feel of real wood, and properly maintained hardwood furniture can last for generations.
The downside is maintenance. Hardwood furniture requires regular sealing or staining to protect against moisture and UV damage. Without proper care, hardwood can rot, warp, or develop cracks. This maintenance commitment is something to consider when choosing your furniture.
Making Your Decision
Consider these factors when choosing your material:
Climate: If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, poly lumber offers the best protection with zero maintenance. Coastal environments benefit from poly lumber is salt resistance.
Maintenance Preference: Be honest about how much time you want to spend maintaining furniture. Poly lumber wins for low-maintenance living. Teak and hardwood require ongoing care.
Aesthetic: If you value natural wood beauty and do not mind the maintenance, hardwood or teak delivers authentic character. Poly lumber comes in many colors but has a more uniform, engineered look.
Budget: Poly lumber often provides the best value over time, as replacement costs and maintenance expenses add up with natural wood options.
Environmental Concerns: Poly lumber made from recycled materials offers sustainability benefits. Responsibly sourced hardwood also can be an eco-friendly choice.
Our Recommendation
For most homeowners, poly lumber offers the best balance of durability, maintenance, and value. Our poly rockers are built to last 20+ years with zero maintenance, staying beautiful year after year.
However, if you specifically want the timeless beauty of natural wood and are committed to regular maintenance, quality teak or hardwood options deliver that classic aesthetic.
Browse our complete collection of rocking chairs in all materials and find the perfect fit for your porch.
Trusted sources: Forest Furniture Institute | Consumer Reports
About The Rocking Chair Company
For over 30 years, The Rocking Chair Company has been crafting premium outdoor and indoor rocking chairs for families across America. Our poly lumber rockers are engineered for durability, comfort, and style. We are committed to providing furniture that enhances your home and stands the test of time.
Learn more: About us | Shop rockers | Contact us