When shopping for outdoor Adirondack chairs, two names often come up: Serwall and POLYWOOD. Both brands offer weather-resistant, plastic-based chairs that mimic the look and feel of traditional wood—but how do they compare?
Let’s break down the key differences in material, build quality, warranty, comfort, price, and long-term value to help you decide whether Serwall or POLYWOOD is better for your outdoor space.
Material Quality
✅ POLYWOOD
- Made from genuine HDPE lumber sourced from recycled plastic containers (like milk jugs)
- Color-stable, fade-resistant pigment throughout the entire board (not just surface-dyed)
- Engineered to withstand salt air, snow, UV, and humidity without cracking or peeling
✅ Serwall
- Also made from HDPE material (usually labeled as “poly lumber”)
- Less transparent about sourcing or density compared to POLYWOOD
- Performs well in outdoor environments, but long-term UV resistance may vary by batch
Winner: POLYWOOD, for better sourcing, consistency, and long-term tested HDPE formulas
Design & Comfort
POLYWOOD
- Contoured seat and curved backrest
- Slightly wider armrests and deeper seat angle
- Available in multiple sizes (Traditional, Modern, Long Beach styles)
- Premium finishes and smooth edges
Serwall
- Ergonomically angled seat with good back support
- Foldable models available
- Slightly shorter backrest and shallower seat depth on some models
Winner: POLYWOOD, for higher-end ergonomics and sizing options; Serwall gets points for foldability
Price Comparison
| Brand | Price Range (Single Chair) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Serwall | \$120 – \$160 | Often includes folding function |
| POLYWOOD | \$219 – \$299+ | Premium build and finishes |
Serwall is clearly the more budget-friendly choice, especially if you’re buying multiple chairs at once.
Winner: Serwall, for affordability
Warranty & Support
POLYWOOD
- 20-year residential warranty on most chairs
- Reputable customer support and long-standing company
Serwall
- 3-year limited warranty
- Newer brand with less long-term data on service or durability claims
Winner: POLYWOOD, by a long shot. Warranty alone justifies the price bump for many buyers.
Aesthetics & Finish Options
POLYWOOD
- Dozens of colors including coastal blues, earth tones, and neutrals
- Matte, wood-grain, or satin finishes depending on the model
Serwall
- Offers 10–12 color options
- Slightly glossier plastic finish on some models
Winner: POLYWOOD, for wider selection and refined finishing
When Serwall Might Be the Better Choice
- You want a budget-friendly option for seasonal or low-traffic use
- You prefer a folding chair for easy storage
- You’re buying multiple chairs and looking to save hundreds upfront
When POLYWOOD Is Worth the Upgrade
- You want long-term durability with a 20-year warranty
- You live in a harsh climate (sun, snow, salt air)
- You’re building a premium, low-maintenance setup
- You care about eco-certified materials and brand transparency
Conclusion
Both Serwall and POLYWOOD offer solid outdoor Adirondack chairs made from HDPE. If you’re on a tight budget or need foldable features, Serwall delivers great value. But if you want superior materials, deeper comfort, a 20-year warranty, and true long-term durability, POLYWOOD is the better investment.
Think of it this way: Serwall is great for the short term; POLYWOOD is built for the next decade.
