How to Choose and Maintain Wooden Pallets

Although pallets are commonly used in the transport sector, they have found their way into the creative industry. They can be used to make stools, tables, bookshelves and wine bars. In this article, you will learn how to choose and maintain wooden pallets to ensure that they last a lifetime. 

Use the right pallet size. 

Pallets come in different sizes — hence you should make sure that you buy the right pallet size for your business. You will need custom wooden pallets if you are transporting oddly-shaped items. Various jurisdictions have different kinds of pallet specifications, so ensure that you observe the law. 

Quality of the pallet. 

Regardless of whether you are buying new or used pallets, ensure that the pallets you buy are of high quality. Pallets made from hardwood may last longer than those made from softwood. Preferably, buy pallets made from treated wood to prevent termite infestation. When purchasing used pallets, avoid buying pallets with extensive damage. It may be more expensive to repair the pallets as opposed to buying new or refurbished pallets.

Handling wooden pallets. 

Below are a few tips on handling wooden pallets. 

  • Observe weight limits when loading the pallets. Overloaded pallets become weak and eventually break.
  • Avoid throwing and dragging the pallets on the floor.
  • Uniformly stack the pallets. However, do not overstack them as it becomes difficult to access the pallets. Overstacked pallets could also pose a risk to your employees and nearby structures as they could fall.
  • The pallet jack or forklift lifting the pallets should be operated by trained and qualified personnel. This prevents improper handling that could result in breakages and accidents.  

Repair of wooden pallets. 

Regularly inspect pallets and repair any damaged pallets. This is a cheaper option as compared to buying new pallets every time a pallet breaks. However, repairs should be conducted by experienced carpenters. 

Pallets for interior design projects.

If you intend to buy used pallets for interior design projects, ask the person selling the pallets what the pallets were used to transport. Pallets used to transport toxic materials may be unsuitable for use as tables, seats and counters. Hose the pallet and sand it before taking it into your house. Ensure that you have protective clothing such as gloves and a mask when cleaning the pallet. 

To ensure that your wooden pallets last for long choose the right pallet size, buy high-quality pallets, responsibly handle the pallets, regularly repair the pallets and clean pallets meant for interior design projects.  


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