9 Wood Types For Wood Pallets
Wood is one of the most popular pallet materials because it’s cheap and versatile. However, not all wood types are equal. By understanding how each wood type behaves in both hot and cold environments, users will experience fewer problems with their wooden pallets.
Making a smart pallet selection is essential to the effectiveness of your next project. When you consider the criteria involved in any particular use, it becomes a lot easier to choose pallets that will make your job easier and help keep costs low.
1. Pine Pallets
Pine pallets are a lower-cost alternative to other hardwoods. These pallets will reach an equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of around 15% in about six months when stored in a hot environment. For the best results, look for pine pallets that have been kiln dried and treated with chemicals. This treatment process will inhibit mold growth and extend their useful life.
2. Oak Pallets
Oak pallets are best for hot environments because they reach an equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of about 13% in six months or less when stored at high temperatures. This makes it a great choice for users who need fast drying times, such as manufacturers who use pallets for storing perishable goods.
Oak pallets are also a good choice when durability is prioritized. The wood has a high resistance to warping and splitting.
3. Ash Pallets
Ash pallets are similar in appearance to oak but with slightly lighter colors. They reach an EMC of 13% when stored at high temperatures in about six months. The wood doesn’t warp or crack easily, making it a good choice for users who need durable combo pallets.
4. Red Oak Pallets
At an EMC of 12%, red oak pallets are slightly less durable than other hardwoods and are ideal for cool environments. They also have a higher resistance to fungal growth, making the wood easier to maintain over time. As an added bonus, the lighter color of these pallets makes them a great option for users who need to label their products.
5. Poplar Pallets
Poplar is another inexpensive alternative to hardwoods, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious customers. The wood reaches an EMC of 10% after about two years when stored at high temperatures and can quickly deteriorate if exposed to moisture.
6. Walnut Pallet
Walnut pallets are similar to oak, but they have an even lower EMC of about 10% after six months of storage in a hot environment. These pallets should not be used in cold environments because the wood will likely split or warp with changes in temperature outside of its ideal range.
7. Hemlock Pallet
Hemlock pallets reach a very low EMC of about 10% in a year or less when stored at high temperatures. However, this wood should not be used in cold environments because it’s prone to splitting and warping in the cold. When exposed to extreme heat for long periods, this wood can also ignite and burn rapidly.
Hemlock pallets are more commonly used in warmer climates because they are less likely to develop fungus, mold, or rot.
8. Cherry Pallets
Cherry pallets take the longest time to reach an equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of about 22% when stored at high temperatures. This means that they will have a much longer useful life when exposed to warm environments. Cherry is also a lighter wood, making it easier to work with than other hardwoods when making wooden pallets.
The downside to these pallets is that they’re more expensive and often have an inferior surface finish. Some cherry pallets are also more prone to splitting and warping. Users who need very durable pallets should go with. Knowing about these characteristics makes it easier for the user to choose the right pallet type.
9. Redwood Pallet
Redwood pallets reach an equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of about 20% in one year when stored at high temperatures. This makes it a good option for users who need longer drying times than oak or walnut, but still want to keep costs low (because redwood costs less than other hardwoods).
Redwood pallets are not recommended for cold areas. When exposed to cold temperatures, this wood can split or warp. In addition, prolonged exposure to water and moisture will cause mold growth on the surface and inside of the wood. Buying pallets from Unaka will save you the hassle.
Conclusion
Overall, understanding how each wood type behaves in various environments will help you make an informed choice when buying new pallets. Different types of wood perform differently in various environments, so it’s important to know the ideal temperature and humidity range for each type before making a purchase.
If you’re searching for resilient and enduring wooden pallet manufacturers in East Tennessee, you’ve come to the right place. We have accumulated 40 years of successful experience and customer satisfaction, and we provide you with top-notch services and wood products. Unaka Forest Products has an exceptional product range that caters to your unique requirements and preferences, whether wooden pallets, precut lumber, biofuel chips, or landscape mulch. We also sell organic wooden mulch, precut lumber, and biofuel. Contact us today for the best quality wooden pallets.
