Polywood vs Composite Lumber

If you are looking for an attractive kayak or canoe storage rack but don’t want traditional wood, polywood lumber and composite lumber are two of the most popular wood alternatives. These two terms are often used interchangeably but are actually two very different options.

What is Polywood Lumber?

Polywood lumber is a generic term for HDPE plastic lumber. HDPE stands for High-Density Polyethylene. It is a thermoplastic polymer that is made from petroleum and what we use in the construction of our durable, eco-friendly and easy to maintain kayak racks. The poly lumber we use is manufactured in Wisconsin and is made from 100% plastic – over 90% of which is recycled HDPE. There’s no wood to rot, peel, weather, crack, blister or splinter, making them more durable and weather-resistant than traditional wood and composite lumber.

What is Composite Lumber?

Composite lumber is a manufactured product that blends wood fibers or particles with plastic and binding agents. It’s created by combining natural and synthetic materials to offer enhanced durability and moisture resistance when compared to traditional wood. However, the wood fiber can still absorb water, causing it to swell and warp over time.

HDPE Polywood Compared to Composite Lumber

While HDPE and composite lumber are both alternatives to traditional wood and are often used in the same types of projects, such as decking and outdoor furniture, they are not the same. Here’s a quick comparison to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Composition

HDPE is a made from a single-material plastic, while composite woods are made from multiple materials, typically a combination of plastic and wood fibers. 

Maintenance

While both require less maintenance than traditional wood, composites may require more upkeep than HDPE including protective sealant and special cleaning solutions to prevent mold and mildew.  

Durability

Since HDPE polywood lumber has no wood or natural products in it, it is more durable than composite. It is extremely weather-proof, fade resistant and bug proof. It does not rot, mold, warp, split, crack or corrode.

Strength

The poly lumber we use for our kayak racks is strong enough to support kayaks and canoes that way up to 80 lbs. Composite lumber isn’t strong enough to act as structural support. When it comes to floor joists, rafters, trusses, and framing, structural lumber is required.  

Sustainability

Both HDPE and composite lumber can be made from recycled materials. Typically, HDPE contains a higher percentage of recycled materials. The poly lumber we use contains at least 90% recycled plastic.

Aesthetics

Both offer an aesthetically appealing alternative to wood with HDPE often molded to resemble wood and composites offering a natural wood-like appearance. 

Premium Poly Kayak Storage

Our poly kayak racks provide an attractive, eco-friendly option for storing canoes, SUPs and kayaks. They are durable, weather resistant and virtually maintenance free, offering a superior alternative to composite wood kayak racks. Learn more about the benefits of our synthetic lumber or shop Poly Kayak Racks online now.