Must-have Tools to Work With Pallets
by
Cori Warner
Pallets are awesome. They are cheap, even free, and have an aesthetic that works with any decor from super-modern to shabby chic, to country farmhouse. The idea of reusing this abundantly available source of lumber, and keeping them out of the landfills is also appealing.
The down side to pallets is that they are ridiculously difficult to tear apart or reuse if you don’t have the right kind of tools. So here are the must have tools to work with pallets, if you want to play with pallets without hurting yourself or others.
The down side to pallets is that they are ridiculously difficult to tear apart or reuse if you don’t have the right kind of tools. So here are the must have tools to work with pallets, if you want to play with pallets without hurting yourself or others.
Step number one when working with pallets is tearing them apart. Tool number one do to this with is a pallet buster. I had a friend make this one; it weighs a good 40 pounds and has a five foot handle. You need the weight and leverage to take a pallet apart. If I had it to do again, I’d make the tines 4.5 inches instead of 3, and put them a bit closer together. But this definitely makes the job easier.
You can also buy a pallet buster for around $65.00, but its not quite as sturdy as Ole Red.
The handiest saw to have when working with pallets is a Reciprocating Saw. Not only can you cut between the boards, but with a metal cutting blade, you can also cut all the nails flush with the lumber.
I use an orbital sander on most projects, including pallets. I generally use an 80 grit, which will get rid of splinters, but will keep the rustic quality of the pallet.
The other saw you almost have to have is a Skil saw, or circular saw. A jig saw is handy for smaller cuts, and a table saw is nice, but not strictly necessary.
The last must-have tool to work with pallets is a drill. Pallets are often heat or pressure-treated and are very, very hard. So, alas, pre drilling is pretty much a given when building with pallets.
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Comments
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I have to say tearing the boards off of a pallet is the worst ever. I was using a cat's paw! Even being careful I was breaking boards. Ol' Red looks like it would do the same unless the wide metal protects the board when you lift up. I used pallet boards to insert into another pallet to make a floor for my shed. Turned out great; no more falling through openings. Thanks for listing all the tools needed.
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I bought a pallet buster on Amazon but have yet to use it because of lack of time in getting back to a pallet project. Don't think it is the one you are recommending. Thanks.
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I used a saws all to take apart the pallets and left the nails in them , makes it easier and less waste. For the project
Frequently asked questions
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I’ve read a few comments about some pallets being chemically treated. How would I know, or is there a distinctive chemical smell?
TIA! 😁
what ways can I stand a pallet up without leaning it against and wall or fence. I would like to make a planter.
For just starting out which saw would be best an easiest to use for someone that has no experience with one thank u