The use of wood pallets has evolved from being utilized in industrial shipping yards to finding their place in outdoor landscaping at home.
With their sturdy construction, wood pallets can be a practical material for building custom outdoor pieces such as garden benches, coffee tables, and dining sets. However, the effectiveness of this endeavor relies heavily on the selection of proper material and treatments.
Advantages of Pallet-Based Outdoor Furniture
Cost-effectiveness continues to be one of the most important reasons behind choosing pallets as a material for outdoor use. Pallets, being cheaper than treated wood, make it possible to create a huge number of projects on a budget.
The high strength of the wood used will enable these items to bear the weight of furniture pieces. Flexibility is yet another major reason behind using pallets. The design of pallets makes it easier to dismantle, cut, and assemble them again.
Be it a small garden seat or a huge sectional sofa, pallets can easily fit the particular space requirement. In addition, the use of such materials can contribute to sustainability since their lifecycle can be prolonged.
Selecting Safe and Durable Materials
Not every pallet is suitable for furniture construction. To identify a safe candidate, builders must check the regulatory stamps located on the side of the wood. Look for the HT mark, which signifies the pallet underwent heat treatment to eliminate pests.
This physical process is preferable to chemical alternatives for items intended for home use. Never use any wood that is labeled with the MB symbol, since this means it was treated with methyl bromide, which is an extremely hazardous form of pesticide.
Apart from labeling, you should also inspect the pallet physically. Do not use wood with large cracks, rotting marks, or oils on it, because these will affect the durability of the finished product.
Wood Preparation for Outdoor Exposure
Prior to using the wood in outdoor applications, the raw pallets have to undergo certain preparations. Start by washing the wood with soap and water in order to remove any dirt. Once this is done, sand the wood until it is sufficiently smooth. In order to prevent the wood from absorbing moisture and being affected by ultraviolet rays, weather-resistant sealant should be applied.
The clear sealant aims to preserve the wood’s grain while outdoor stains or paints provide a personalized finish.
Long-Term Maintenance and Longevity
Inspecting outdoor wood furniture on a regular basis is necessary for preserving its quality. It is important to check the furniture annually for any hardware problems or thinning finish. Protecting it with a sealant coating yearly will enable the wood to resist becoming gray due to sun damage.
In case of very cold or hot weather conditions, it is recommended that the furniture be stored in a covered place or under waterproof covers in order to make sure that it lasts longer.
Choose High-Quality Material for Your Project
Using wooden pallets to create outdoor furniture is an effective way of improving your outdoor spaces. This is made possible by using treated wood and coatings that give beauty and strength to the furniture.
At A&M Pallets, we provide quality material for you to meet your requirements. You can reach us at (713) 955-8033.