Polyethene is one of the most popular materials that is used in a wide array of products. It is a versatile compound that can be molded into any shape and size. One of its variants,
HDPE, also known as high-density Polyethylene, has gained quite a lot of popularity in the outdoor furniture industry. It is durable, eco-friendly, and weather resistant, which is why it is great for the beach.
Besides these, the material also offers other exclusive benefits. So, let's look at them and decide whether it is a good alternative to expensive wooden and metallic counterparts.
Weather Resistant
The thing about weather is it does not remain consistent throughout the years. Sometimes it can change in a matter of minutes without even a warning. While the indoor furniture remains unaffected, the patio set has to experience nature's wrath. Amongst all the materials used to construct furniture for the beach, HDPE marine-grade polymer (MGP) is the only one that can resist all types of weather extremes.
MGP has zero porosity which means neither water nor mold can penetrate it. Furthermore, the marine-grade polymer also has the unique capability to resist extreme heat. Hence, it prevents the warping and swelling of the furniture.
With iron, steel, and wooden furniture sets, owners always have to keep an eye on the weather. Molds can penetrate wood which can damage the furniture's structure. At the same time, iron and steel have an inherent risk of rust and corrosion and can also get very hot in the summers, making it difficult to sit on and transport. MGP is a poor conductor of heat, which means it does not get too hot even in scorching heat.
Cost Effective
MGP is by far the most affordable material that is used to build outdoor furniture. In contrast to wooden, iron, and steel furniture, there are no added maintenance costs. Owners of non-HDPE furniture must perform regular maintenance to prevent rotting, splintering, and wrapping, among other things.
Furthermore, MGP furniture is easy to install and does not require professional help. Even if you have to move them from one place to another, the light weight of the material does not require a helping hand.
So, it saves on initial costs and cuts down installation and maintenance charges. The material's cost-effectiveness is one of the major features that has contributed to the success of MGP furniture.
Durable
Iron and steel are considered to be some of the most durable materials, but require some care when used for the patio. In the areas where dew is a regular occurrence, the metallic furniture needs special care. Owners must look for a protective coating and repair it because it is prone to corrosion and rust. Alternatively, Tropicraft Patio offers all-aluminum outdoor furniture for its rust-proof qualities.
MGP, on the other hand, comes risk-free. It neither succumbs to extreme heat nor the dew. Furthermore, this flexible polymer is impact resistant. This feature is very important when furniture is used for commercial purposes or households with active children.
People that have young kids in their homes would also find it beneficial. You would not have to worry about the table bulging when the kids start banging it with utensils. Moreover, MGP has been in the industry for more than 20 years. It is the preferred material in shipping and is used for the topsides of motor and sailing yachts. It is tried and tested, and none of the industries has complained.
Eco-Friendly
With polymers, people are often concerned about the environment-friendliness of the material. Fortunately, the MGP does not contribute to environmental damage in any capacity. MGP contains 30% of recycled resins and is itself recyclable. Furthermore, the construction process, manufacturing equipment, and raw material emit no harmful gasses. And there is no waste as well because that is recycled and used to produce other products.
Final Thoughts
MGP is one of the cheaper alternatives to wooden and iron or steel furniture. However, the affordability does not come at the expense of the durability of the furniture.
Weather resistance, cost-effectiveness, and durability make up for any possible shortcomings, especially in commercial settings and families with young kids. So, MGP furniture is a great fit for the patio and the beach. It is ahead of its metallic and wooden counterparts in many aspects despite the cheaper price tags.