How can I use pallets to build a platform for my PediQ chair?

Lucy Ricardo
by Lucy Ricardo

Looking for advice on how to build a Pallet Platform. I have 2 pallets that I would like to use to create a platform for my PediQ Chair. Does the wood have to be treated? Do I Prime prior to painting with Oil Base Paint?

  11 answers
  • Dee Dee on Feb 09, 2020

    You have to be very careful with pallets that they are not weather treated. They have carcinogens and that is not something you want in the house. If the wood is not treated examine each of the pallets for sharp edges and nails that stick out of the wood. I would sand the pallets to make them smooth. You can use a stain blocking primer and paint or you can stain with General Finishes or Minwax and seal.


  • Gk Gk on Feb 09, 2020

    Hello Lucy! I don't think using pallets for a platform for this chair and the clients who will be sitting in it is a good idea. Pallet wood is very thin and won't hold much weight. I see that your chair is already on a platform (if this is your picture or is it an example?). What is that platform made from? I would use 2x4's to build a frame and then 1x4 or 1x6's etc to build the floor of your platform. Yes, you do want to prime bare wood. Match your primer with your paint.

    • Lucky Lucy Lucky Lucy on Feb 10, 2020

      Hi, this is the chair that I would like to build a platform for. After reading your comment and the others I realize it's not a good thing to do out of Pallets as this chair is quite heavy.


      Thank you so much for your advice!

  • Recreated Designs Recreated Designs on Feb 09, 2020

    Hi Lucy, it should be fairly easy to build a platform for your chair, but as stated above, I would be careful using pallet wood. A lot of pallet wood is treated and it can actually harm the skin or person. You can buy wide plants of pine or spruce though at your local home improvement store that are fairly inexpensive and then build your box from that.

  • Here is how to read pallet info.


    https://www.1001pallets.com/pallet-safety/


    In addition, I would think twice about using pallets for your project. Those chairs are heavy and pallet wood might fail in the short term.

  • Lucie - Oh my sander Lucie - Oh my sander on Feb 09, 2020

    I would totally be careful using pallet wood. Some of it is treated and can contain insects.

  • 17335038 17335038 on Feb 09, 2020

    Agree with everyone above who would not recommend using pallet wood for this purpose.

    Besides the possible health risks from using non treated lumber (you don't know what it has been exposed to or what the fibres have absorbed) it will be very difficult to construct a platform that is level.

  • Cindy Cindy on Feb 09, 2020

    I have read all the comments above. I agree with them. Instead you could go to your local home improvement store with your measurements. Pick out the boards you like (make sure they are straight) and most stores will cut the wood for you. And, guess what? It's usually free service.

  • Take the slats of the second pallet to fill in the gaps on the first pallet. You may need to cut some of them to size. The one I am doing now has different size gaps.

  • Lucky Lucy Lucky Lucy on Feb 10, 2020

    Thank you everyone for your advice. I will be rethinking this project and will leave my chair as is.


    I'd rather be safe than sorry as my Clients safety is very important to me!


    Grateful to all, Lucy 😊



  • Laura Dukeminier Bowman Laura Dukeminier Bowman on Feb 12, 2020

    Hey, not only did you give hert advice...the pallets in the house, and in front of the house are TODAY, small loads at a time, going to the side road to be cycled! Thanks!

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Feb 15, 2020

    Hi,

    Once planed smooth, just stain with a wood stain or gel. Best wishes.