Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Polly Products' recycled plastic outdoor furniture and site furnishings
Durability & Weather Resistance
All Polly Products outdoor furniture is manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is specifically engineered for superior outdoor performance in all climate conditions.
Extreme Heat Performance: Our recycled plastic lumber withstands scorching temperatures with only negligible increases in flexibility. We have picnic tables and benches that have been in Dubai for over 5 years, enduring intense sun and heat with no degradation, warping, or structural issues.
Cold Weather Durability: Our products excel in freezing climates without cracking or becoming brittle. We have installations throughout Canada, Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan, and Maine – regions known for extreme winter conditions – and all products maintain their structural integrity year after year.
Why HDPE Performs So Well:
• Solid, dense construction with minimal thermal expansion and contraction
• Non-porous material prevents moisture absorption that causes cracking in freezing temperatures
• Poor thermal conductor makes seating comfortable in both hot and cold weather
• Reinforced construction – larger picnic table tops include powder-coated aluminum tubing for additional stability
Our HDPE components can be wiped dry and remain comfortable to sit on regardless of temperature extremes, making them ideal for parks, schools, beaches, and outdoor venues in any climate zone.
When properly installed on a level surface, Polly Products furniture will not warp. The key to preventing warping is correct placement and assembly.
Critical Installation Requirements:
• Place all furniture on a completely level foundation (concrete pad, level ground, or deck)
• Ensure all legs make even contact with the surface
• Follow assembly instructions carefully, avoiding over-tightening of screws
• Individual bench and table slats rarely warp when assembled correctly with proper spacing
If you notice any warping after installation, it's typically due to an unlevel surface rather than a material defect. We recommend checking your installation site with a level before assembly to ensure long-term performance.
Maintenance & Care
Yes, you can power wash Polly Products furniture, but proper technique is essential to avoid cosmetic damage to the recycled plastic surface.
Power Washing Best Practices:
• Always use a fan tip – concentrated tips can damage the surface finish
• Start with low pressure and gradually increase only if needed
• Test on the underside first to find the right pressure setting
• Keep the nozzle at least 12 inches from the surface
• Use sweeping motions rather than focusing on one spot
Safety Warning: High-pressure washers can cause serious injury. Use the minimum pressure necessary and always use a fan tip for both safety and surface protection.
For detailed visual instructions, check out our cleaning video tutorial.
We do not recommend painting or staining Polly Products furniture, and here's why it's unnecessary and ineffective:
Why Paint Won't Work:
• Our color additives are molded directly into the recycled plastic during manufacturing
• The non-porous nature of HDPE prevents paint adhesion
• Paint will peel and flake off almost immediately
• No surface preparation technique will create lasting paint adhesion
The Benefits of Molded-In Color:
• No maintenance required – color lasts the lifetime of the product
• Scratches and marks are less visible because color goes all the way through
• Graffiti resistant – spray paint and markers wipe off easily
• UV stabilized to resist fading from sun exposure
Yes! Recycled plastic lumber machines very similarly to wood, making it easy to customize for specific applications.
For Simple Projects (Cutting, Drilling, Routing):
Standard woodworking tools work perfectly well for occasional modifications. Use the same techniques you would with hardwood lumber.
For High-Production Applications:
Consult with your cutting tool supplier for proper carbide tools and optimal feed rates for plastic lumber. Industrial applications benefit from specialized tooling.
Important Limitations:
• Do not use a planer on recycled plastic lumber
• Use sharp blades to prevent melting from friction heat
• Clear chips frequently to prevent buildup
• Support long pieces properly when cutting
Assembly & Installation
While Polly Products furniture is heavy and stable enough that anchoring is optional for many installations, we offer comprehensive anchoring solutions for high-wind areas, theft prevention, or commercial requirements.
Available Anchor Kit Options:
1. Concrete/Wood Deck Mounting Kits
• L-shaped brackets that attach to furniture legs or trash container side slats
• Stainless steel screws included for mounting to furniture
• Compatible with concrete pads, wood decks, or composite decking
• You supply substrate-specific fasteners (concrete anchors, deck screws, etc.)
2. In-Ground Auger Anchors
• Auger-style design screws into soil
• Ideal for securing benches, tables, and containers in grassy areas
• Provides excellent resistance to tipping and theft
3. Spike Anchors for Posts
• Designed for mounting posts directly in the ground
• Perfect for message centers, kiosks, and sign posts
• Pound-in installation for quick setup
When to Consider Anchoring:
• High-traffic public areas with theft concerns
• Coastal or windy locations
• Pool decks and waterfront installations
• Compliance with insurance or safety requirements
• Sloped or uneven terrain
Most Polly Products arrive in easy-to-assemble kit form, though we pre-assemble many components to simplify your installation.
What's Included in Every Kit:
• All holes pre-drilled and countersunk for accurate alignment
• Complete stainless steel fastener package (screws, bolts, washers)
• Step-by-step illustrated assembly instructions
• Pre-assembled components where applicable
Pre-Assembled Components:
• Hexagon picnic tables: tops and frame sections come pre-assembled
• Standard picnic tables: table tops fully assembled, 2-board seats pre-assembled
• Some trash receptacles: arrive completely assembled with bottom and liner
• Message centers and kiosks: doors and frames pre-assembled
Tools Needed:
A standard screwdriver will work, but we recommend a power screwdriver or drill for faster, easier assembly. Most customers complete assembly in 30-60 minutes depending on the product.
Assembly is straightforward and designed for customers without specialized skills. We pre-assemble major components to minimize your work.
Hexagon Picnic Tables:
• Table tops arrive completely pre-assembled
• Frame sections are pre-built
• You simply connect pre-assembled sections
• Typical assembly time: 30-45 minutes
Standard Rectangular Picnic Tables:
• Table tops fully assembled
• 2-board seats pre-assembled
• Attach legs and bracing with included hardware
• Typical assembly time: 45-60 minutes
Why Assembly is Easy:
• All holes precisely pre-drilled and countersunk
• Illustrated instructions with clear step-by-step photos
• Parts are clearly labeled
• All necessary hardware included
• No specialized tools required beyond a drill/screwdriver
We use a proven fastening system designed specifically for recycled plastic lumber that ensures structural integrity without damaging the material.
Fastener Specifications:
• #12 x 3" stainless steel screws
• Screwed directly into pre-drilled pilot holes in the centerline of bench ends
• All holes are pre-drilled and countersunk at the factory
Critical Spacing Requirements:
Our recycled plastic lumber requires maximum 32" on-center spacing for stability and safety. This means bench ends must be positioned no more than 32 inches apart for proper load distribution.
Proper Tightening Technique:
• Snug, not tight – this is critical for plastic lumber
• Over-tightening creates stress points that can lead to cracking
• Over-tightening strips out pilot holes, reducing holding power
• Use a power drill with adjustable torque settings for consistent results
Product Specifications
Each bench model has a specific weight capacity based on its lumber dimensions and span length, but all are engineered with safety as the primary consideration for diverse users.
Factors Affecting Weight Capacity:
• Lumber dimensions – thicker boards support more weight
• Span length – distance between support points
• Number of support ends – 2-end vs. 3-end vs. 4-end configurations
• Design style – backless vs. backed benches
Finding Exact Weight Limits:
Specific weight capacities are listed:
• On product specification pages on our website
• In our printed catalog
• By contacting Customer Service at 1.877.609.2243
Commercial Applications: Our benches meet or exceed commercial outdoor furniture standards and are used in parks, schools, transit stations, and high-traffic public areas nationwide.
We sell bench ends individually rather than in pairs, providing maximum flexibility for your specific needs.
Why Individual Sales Make Sense:
• Different bench lengths require different numbers of ends (2, 3, or 4 ends)
• Allows you to order exact quantities for custom configurations
• Convenient for replacement when one end is damaged
• Cost-effective – pay only for what you need
Common Configurations:
• 4-foot bench: 2 ends
• 6-foot bench: 2 ends (standard) or 3 ends (heavy-duty)
• 8-foot bench: 3 ends (standard) or 4 ends (heavy-duty)
All Polly Products bench ends feature a universal design – there are no left-side or right-side specific ends.
Benefits of Universal Bench Ends:
• Simplified ordering – no need to specify left or right
• Flexible installation – use on either side of the bench
• Easy replacement – any bench end works anywhere
• Center support option – use additional ends in the middle of longer benches
• Inventory management – stock one part instead of two
Application Flexibility:
This universal design means you can:
• Add center supports to existing benches for increased capacity
• Replace damaged ends without matching orientation
• Create custom bench configurations with multiple support points
• Reuse bench ends in different locations or projects
Our standard umbrella hole diameter is 2 inches, compatible with most commercial and residential patio umbrellas.
Umbrella Hole Availability:
• Hexagon tables: 2-inch umbrella hole included as standard unless you specify otherwise when ordering
• Plastic sheet tables: 2-inch umbrella hole included as standard unless you specify otherwise
• Standard rectangular tables: Available as an additional option on select models
Custom Orders:
If you prefer a table without an umbrella hole, simply specify this when placing your order. We can manufacture hexagon and plastic sheet tables without the hole at no additional charge.
Polly Products offers multiple leg and frame options, all featuring recycled plastic construction with varying designs for different aesthetic and functional needs.
Classic Picnic Table Legs:
• 4" x 6" recycled plastic lumber
• Provides superior strength and traditional appearance
• Ideal for parks, schools, and traditional outdoor settings
Step-Through Model Options:
Option 1: 4" x 4" recycled plastic framing
• Easier wheelchair and walker accessibility
• ADA-friendly design
Option 2: Proprietary molded leg/frame/seat support
• One-
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of our most commonly asked questions. If you have a question of your own feel free to reach out to us.
Q: How does the product hold up in heat & cold?
A: All of our products are made of high-density polyethylene which is ideal for outdoor use. The Polly Products formulation will withstand cold without cracking and heat with a negligible increase in flexibility. Some of our larger picnic tables tops are reinforced underneath with powder-coated aluminum tubing for extra stability. We have a client that uses our benches near the beach and the salt and sand whip at them daily. This client informed us recently that the benches are still in the same great condition as when they were first purchased! We’ve had tables in Dubai for 5 years, enduring the scorching sun and heat, and no problems there, either. We have products in Canada, Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan, Maine – where cold weather is extreme – again, all is well. Our HDPE components are solid and very dense, with very minimal thermal expansion and contraction, and are non-porous so moisture cannot be absorbed. These facts also make them quite comfortable to sit on in both hot and cold climates, because the components are not good conductors of temperature extremes, and they can be wiped dry.
Q: Will your product warp?
A: The product must be placed on a level surface to assure no warping occurs. Placement is important! Individual bench and table slats rarely warp if assembled correctly.
Q: How do you anchor the product down?
A: Polly Products does not require you to anchor your bench/table down. It is the customer’s preference. We do sell optional anchor kits that are appropriate for many applications, including attaching to concrete or wood decks, or in-ground. The brackets for concrete/wood mounting are L-shaped and screws are included to mount it to the legs of your product (or the side slats on the trash and recycling containers). We don’t include the fasteners to attach to the substrate, because wood and concrete use different and specific fasteners. Those are available at any hardware store or lumber yard. We also offer an auger-style anchor, for securing your items to the ground, and a spike-style anchor for mounting posts in the ground.
Q: Can you power wash the product?
A: Yes, but with caution. High-pressure power washers used with a concentrated tip can cosmetically damage the product. Using a fan tip is highly recommended. Experiment on the underside until the correct amount of pressure and water focus is achieved without causing cosmetic damage. Most grime can be removed with soapy water and a soft brush. If you choose to use a power washer, remember that it can remove a toe – use the minimum pressure required with a fan tip. Cleaning Video Here
Q: How safe is the product?
A: 100% high-density polyethylene is a very earth-friendly plastic. It is the same plastic as the gallon milk jug from your refrigerator. Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose so buying recycled plastic products keeps that plastic out of our country’s landfills. It is non-porous, so it cannot harbor moisture or bacteria internally; is inorganic so it cannot rot, mold or harbor insects; and it’s non-leaching which makes it safe for aquatic use, children and pets. Being non-porous also makes it easy to clean and sanitize with the disinfectant of your choice.
Q: Can you paint the product?
A: We do not recommend painting. There are color additives that are molded into the product. No staining or painting is needed. Due to the nature of plastic, the paint would most likely NOT stick and would peel and flake off almost instantly. This also makes the product graffiti resistant.
Q: Can we machine the plastic?
A: Plastic is very similar to wood when machining. For high production applications consult with the supplier of your cutting tools for proper tools and feed rates. For simple cutting, drilling and routing, regular woodworking tools will work well. It is not recommended to plane.
Q: Is there color variance?
A: Slight color variance is common in our operation as we use recycled materials. Most continuous suppliers use wide spec virgin plastics and can control the colors better because they have consistent virgin feedstock. We remain honest with our claims of a recycled plastic product. We strive to produce consistent colors with computerized color mixing, and are successful, especially considering what we have as raw material.
Q: How can I see the product in different colors?
A: We update our website often and add pictures showcasing the variety of colors we offer. All products on our website provide dropdown lists to choose the base and board colors, so you can see the finished color combination. Keep in mind that settings on computer monitors vary. If you need to see the actual colors in hand, we provide free color samples so you can be confident everything will match in your setting.
Q: Do bench ends come in pairs?
A: We sell individual bench ends because some benches require 2, 3, or 4 bench ends. Or a customer might just need one bench end replaced.
Q: Are there left & right bench ends?
A: All of our bench ends are universal so you can use them for the left side, the right side or in the middle.
Q: How do you attach boards to bench ends?
A: We use a #12 x 3″ screw – screwed directly into pilot holes in the center line of the bench end. Our plastic lumber requires a maximum of 32″ on-center spacing for stability. The product comes pre-drilled and countersunk to make assembly easier, but it’s important not to overtighten screws into plastic lumber. Snug is recommended and prevents the creation of stress points in the boards and stripping out pilot holes.
Q: What is the weight limit on your benches?
A: Each bench is different based on the lumber used and the span, but they are all designed with safety in mind for the wide variety of people who may use them. For specific weight limits, view the specification on our website, in our catalog, or contact Customer Service.
Q: I am looking for furnishings with post mounts to “plant” permanently in the ground.
A: We do not make any products with metal posts that ‘plant’ or are cemented permanently into the ground. It is our mission to utilize recycled plastic, not metal, in our furnishings. However, we do offer various anchor kits that will secure our products to concrete and wood pads, or in-ground. You are welcome to set your product in a cement bed, but that is not a recommended application.
Q: Is assembly required or are the benches pre-assembled?
A: They come in kit form with all holes predrilled, an assembly package with step-by-step, illustrated instructions, and the required stainless steel fasteners. Some assembly is required on most products. A screwdriver will do the trick, but a power screwdriver is recommended.
Q: How hard is it to assemble the Polly picnic tables?
A: We pre-assemble many components to make your assembly easier. The Hexagon tables come with pre-assembled tops and sections of the frames. All of the straight table tops are assembled and 2-board seats will be, as well.
Q: What size is the umbrella hole?
A: A 2-inch Umbrella hole will be in all Hex and plastic sheet tables unless the customer specifies they do not want one when they order. Umbrella Holes on standard tables are an additional option on some standard tables.
Q: What are the legs made of?
A: Classic picnic tables have 4″ x 6″ plastic lumber legs for superior strength. We also have step-in models, one with 4″ x 4″ framing and another with a proprietary molded leg/frame/seat support that’s also made of recycled plastic. The GreenScapes tables have black decorative frames which are solid recycled plastic.
Q: Is there a bottom to your trash receptacles?
A: Some of the trash receptacles do not have bottoms. They come with a rigid liner inside to place the trash bag into. Others are pre-assembled and have a bottom in place with the addition of a plastic liner for placing the trash bag into.
Q: Does the lid attach securely to the trash receptacles?
A: The lid does not come attached to most of our trash receptacles. The lid fits inside the receptacle to hold it in place and is not secured for easy access when replacing trash bags. We offer a Lid Lanyard on products with removable lids to secure the lid to the base.
Q: Does the Pet Waste Station include a can or liner in the receptacle?
A: It does include a rigid liner and our exclusive ‘Easy Bag System’ that you’ll come to appreciate. The EBS provides ‘arms’ to wrap your trash can liner around which helps prevent the bag from coming loose and collapsing into the liner. You can imagine what a mess that would be!
Q: Are the Message Centers secure?
A: All message centers, kiosks, and specialty viewing centers include built-in locks. All doors are mounted with stainless steel piano hinges from the inside, so they can’t be unscrewed, providing further security.
Q: Do the planter boxes have bottoms and can they be filled with potting soil?
A: The planters are designed to have potted plants set inside and do not have bottom plates. Proper drainage should be maintained and having an open bottom allows for drainage.
Q: Why Can’t Squirrels Resist Your Recycled Plastic Bench?
A: Squirrels, for example, have a constant need to gnaw to keep their ever-growing front teeth in check. Unfortunately, the texture and sometimes even the scent of recycled plastic can be irresistible to these bushy-tailed rodents. Read more
Q: How do we become a distributor?
A: You can contact customer service toll-free 1.877.609.2243 or Email customerservice@pollyproducts.com. A pre-qualifying distributor package will be sent to you. After completing forms in the package, simply return to Polly Products and pricing and product information will be provided once approved.
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