Diy Pallet Projects

After being used as a basic wooden frame to load and transport goods via forklift, truck, and ship, the simple pallet can be transformed into numerous works of furniture art ranging from coffee tables, shelving, and picture frames to armoires, night stands, and bunk beds.

Best of all, pallets are free. Since they "grow" just about everywhere, getting a few to throw in the back of the car is a simple job - right? But before you start collecting pallets, you may want to Consider some pallets that can be dangerous: Chemical spills and treatments can Make some pallets hazardous to cut, burn, or even touch.

The following guide will help you get on the right track when it comes to finding the best pallets, breaking them down, and using them for your next DIY home improvement project or woodworking. Be safe and enjoy your next project pallet!
Styles of Pallets

Most people think that all pallets are the same, but there are a variety of styles. Choosing the right pallet can mean the difference between finding the safest and best materials versus using damaged wood that may contain toxic chemicals.

Choosing a Safe Pallet

Because pallets are used multiple times for transporting a wide variety of materials, they can be susceptible to spills from all sorts of nasty liquids and products. The first rule when selecting any pallet is to check if it has anything visible spilled on it. It's best to discard anything with any spills, stains, or strange discolorations. Stick with a clean, stain-free pallet.

Once you've found a spotless pallet, the next step is to check for a stamp or a marking on the sides or stringers of the pallet. If you see no numbers, words, or symbols stamped, branded, etched, or painted on the sides of the pallet, then you've Likely found a safe and clean pallet. For most domestic transportation purposes, a non-treated wood pallet requires no markings.

Aside from a company's logo, other official-looking markings on the sides of the pallet Often mean your pallet has been shipped internationally. Along with a few symbols, a country-of-origin abbreviation, and a registration number, there are two things you should be on the lookout for when you find markings on the side of a wooden pallet