PolyRock™, poly lumber, and fiberstone have one big thing in common: the look of real stone or wood, without the weight. However, each is made differently and shines in different spots of the yard.
Fiberstone is crafted using crushed stones, while PolyRock™ gives you a real stone look made using durable polyethylene. On the other hand, poly lumber captures the look of real wood. Read along as we break down what each one is made of, where they overlap, and where they don’t.
Meet the Materials
Each engineered material has unique characteristics that make them a better solution to heavy and high-maintenance natural materials.
PolyRock™ is made of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) with a percentage of recycled material in each block/brick. This material lasts well over 15 years due to the unique, roto-molded construction and poly-resin material used in its construction. PolyRock™ is used to make faux stone landscape edging, tree rings, raised bed kits, and trough planters.
Poly lumber is primarily made of recycled high-density (HDPE) plastic, including detergent bottles and milk jugs. To prevent it from fading, manufacturers typically add UV inhibitors and color pigments to ensure it maintains color. Poly lumber is manufactured through an extrusion process, where recycled plastic is melted, blended with additives and color, and formed into solid lumber-like boards. Common Poly lumber products include outdoor furniture, fences, and picnic tables.
Fiberstone is typically made using open-mold hand lay-up molding, where resin and stone powder are layered with fiberglass reinforcement in a mold, then cured, sanded, and finished. Furthermore, some manufacturers add sand or metal fibers into the mix for added weight and stability. Fiberstone is estimated to last for 10-30 years and is typically designed for long-term outdoor use. Popular use cases for fiberstone include planters and pots, garden decor, and fountains/water features.
Why Lightweight Materials are Growing Fast
Lightweight materials are growing fast among homeowners, landscapers, and gardeners for a couple of reasons. They are trading heavy, high-maintenance materials for engineered materials that last. Wood rots, while natural stone can grow mold, mildew, and algae. Each material is extremely easy to lift, move, and install. Furthermore, PolyRock™, poly lumber, and fiberstone are all freeze-thaw resistant, making them a better solution for those who live in cold climates.
Plus, they’re easier to clean! No need to grab your pressure washer or scrub harshly; any dirt or buildup can be wiped away with a quick rinse from a hose or a mild soap and cloth. As a result, people have turned to less porous materials such as fiberstone, poly lumber, and PolyRock™.
PolyRock™, Poly Lumber, and Fiberstone: How Do They Compare?
PolyRock™, poly lumber, and fiberstone each offer a different alternative to traditional outdoor materials. PolyRock™ stands out for its realistic stone texture, long-lasting durability, and purpose-built landscaping applications. Poly lumber is best suited for wood-like boards and outdoor furniture, while fiberstone is commonly used for decorative planters and garden features. The right choice depends on your project, but for lightweight stone-look landscape edging, PolyRock™ is built for the job.
Which one fits your project?
While all three materials offer alternatives to traditional wood and stone, the best choice depends on your project. Poly lumber is well suited to applications that call for lumber-like boards, while fiberstone offers a decorative stone appearance for planters and garden accents. For landscape edging, tree rings, and raised garden beds, PolyRock™ combines a realistic stone look with lightweight construction and long-lasting outdoor performance.
With PolyRock™, you can create defined garden beds and polished landscape borders without the weight and labor of installing traditional stone.
