Poly-Wood furniture is made with "lumber" that is recycled plastic. It doesn't absorb moisture, therefore it doesn't rot, splinter, or crack. Polywood doesn't require water proofing, staining, or painting-just an occassional cleaning. The color runs all the way through the lumber, and it has UV inhibited pigment systems that reduce fading. It's heavier than wood, with each chair weighing about 30-50 pounds, so you don't have to worry about them blowing away on a windy day. This furniture is built to last!