Can You Use Pallet Wood for Firewood?
Everything you need to know before you toss those pallets on the fire
When you spot a stack of wooden pallets in a warehouse or on the side of the road, the first thought that often pops into your mind is “free firewood!” After all, pallets are cheap, plentiful, and already cut to a handy size. But before you start loading the furnace, there are several important factors to weigh: safety, legality, burn quality, and the true cost of turning a pallet into a warm, crackling flame.
In this post you’ll learn:
- What pallet wood is made of and how it’s treated.
- Which pallet types are safe (or unsafe) for burning.
- How pallet firewood compares to traditional hardwoods and softwoods.
- Practical steps to prepare pallets for the stove or fireplace.
- The environmental and legal implications of using pallets as fuel.
Let’s dive in and give you a clear, evidence‑based answer to the question “Can you use pallet wood for firewood?”
1. The Anatomy of a Pallet
| Component | Typical Material | Common Treatments | Why It Matters for Burning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deck boards | Softwood (pine, spruce, fir) or hardwood (oak, maple) | Heat‑treated (HT), kiln‑dried, chemically treated (e.g., methyl bromide) | Untreated softwoods ignite easily, but chemical residues can release toxic fumes. |
| Stringers/blocks | Usually the same species as deck boards | Same as deck boards | Same considerations as above. |
| Nails & Fasteners | Steel, sometimes coated | None (but may be galvanized) | Galvanized nails can spray zinc fumes when heated, which are harmful if inhaled. |
| Sticker (spacing) boards | Often the same wood as deck boards | Same as deck boards | Same considerations. |
| Ink/Labels | Printed on wood surfaces | Some use solvent‑based inks | Can produce unpleasant odors and particulates when burned. |
Key Takeaway
Not every pallet is created equal. The wood itself may be perfectly fine for fire, but treatment chemicals, nails, and surface inks can turn a simple fire into a health hazard.
2. Which Pallet Types Are Safe to Burn?
2.1 Heat‑Treated (HT) Pallets – NO
Heat‑treated pallets are processed at ≥ 200 °C (≈ 400 °F) to eradicate pests. Although the heat removes insects, it also creates a charcoal‑like coating on the wood that releases phenols and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. The resulting smoke can be acrid and potentially harmful.
2.2 Chemically Treated Pallets – NO
Pallets that have been treated with:
| Treatment | Typical Chemical | Health Risk When Burned |
|---|---|---|
| Methyl bromide | Methyl bromide gas | Highly toxic fumes; can irritate lungs. |
| Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) | Arsenic, chromium | Carcinogenic; produces poisonous ash. |
| Pentachlorophenol (PCP) | PCP | Can cause severe respiratory irritation. |
If you spot a label that reads “Treated with…” or an emoji of a fire with “HT” stamped on the pallet, steer clear.
2.3 Untreated, Clean Pallets – YES, with Caution
The best candidates are untreated, clean pallets that:
- Are made of softwoods (pine, spruce, fir) or hardwoods (oak, maple) without any chemical stamps.
- Have no visible stains, oil, or paint.
- Contain only standard steel nails (no galvanized or stainless steel).
Even with “clean” pallets, you’ll want to remove all nails and split the wood to promote even drying.
3. How Pallet Wood Stacks Up Against Conventional Firewood
| Metric | Pallet Wood | Seasoned Hardwoods (e.g., oak, maple) | Seasoned Softwoods (e.g., pine, fir) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Density (BTU/lb) | 7,500‑8,000 (softwood) | 9,000‑10,500 (hardwood) | 7,000‑8,500 (softwood) |
| Moisture Content (after drying) | 20‑25% (if properly seasoned) | 15‑20% | 15‑20% |
| Burn Time (per 1‑ft log) | 20‑30 min | 45‑70 min | 15‑25 min |
| Ash Production | Medium (more than hardwood) | Low | High |
| Smoke & Creosote | Higher if not fully dry; risk of resinous smoke | Low | Moderate (resin) |
| Cost | Near‑free (if sourced locally) | $150‑$300/cord (varies regionally) | $80‑$150/cord |
| Environmental Impact | Reuses waste wood; may contain hidden chemicals | Sustainable if sourced from managed forests | Sustainable, but often less efficient |
Bottom Line
Pallet firewood can provide decent heat—especially if you’re in a pinch and have a ready supply of clean pallets. However, it won’t match the efficiency and low‑creosote burn of seasoned hardwoods. Expect shorter burn times and a bit more ash, but you’ll also save money and keep waste out of landfills.
4. Preparing Pallet Wood for the Fire
- Inspect Every Pallet
- Look for stamps: “HT”, “MCA”, “Methyl bromide”, “Treated with…”.
- Check for paint, stains, or glue residues. If any are present, discard the pallet.
- Remove All Fasteners
- Use a pallet buster or a long pry bar to pull out nails.
- A magnet can help gather stray metal pieces.
- Dismantle the Pallet
- Separate the deck boards from the stringers.
- Break the boards into manageable lengths (12‑18 inches is ideal).
- Split or Saw the Wood
- Splitting the wood reduces the surface area, speeding up drying.
- If you have a circular saw or hand saw, cut to your preferred log size.
- Season the Wood
- Stack the split pieces off the ground on a pallet or firewood rack.
- Cover the top with a tarp but leave the sides open for airflow.
- Let the wood season for at least 6 months; aim for ≤ 20% moisture.
- Test Burn
- Light a small bundle in a well‑ventilated area.
- If the smoke is thin and blue‑white, you’re good.
- If the smoke is thick, black, or smells chemically, stop using that batch.
5. Legal and Environmental Considerations
5.1 Local Ordinances
Many municipalities have restrictions on burning treated wood or any wood that may emit hazardous fumes. Check:
- Your city’s open‑burn regulations.
- Whether you need a permit for a wood‑burning stove or fire pit.
5.2 EPA Guidelines
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies certain treated wood as hazardous waste. Burning such material can violate Clean Air Act provisions and may lead to fines.
5.3 Carbon Footprint
While pallet wood is recycled material, burning it still releases CO₂. However, the net carbon impact can be lower than buying newly cut firewood because you’re upcycling a waste product instead of harvesting fresh trees.
5.4 Safety
- Creosote Buildup: Pallet wood can produce more creosote than seasoned hardwood, increasing chimney fire risk. Regular chimney inspections become essential.
- Metal Sparks: Stray nails can cause hot metal particles to eject from the fire, posing a fire‑hazard. Always metal‑screen your fireplace or stove.
6. Quick Decision Guide – Should You Use Pallet Wood?
| Your Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| You have clean, untreated pallets and can season them for 6‑12 months. | ✅ Go ahead – cost‑effective, eco‑friendly. |
| Pallets are heat‑treated or chemically treated (stamped “HT”, “MCA”, etc.). | ❌ Do NOT burn – toxic fumes. |
| You need instant heat (no time to season). | ❓ Consider a small test batch, but expect more smoke and creosote. |
| Your stove/chimney is old or poorly maintained. | ❌ Avoid pallet wood – higher creosote risk. |
| You’re in an area with strict open‑burn bans. | ❌ Check local codes before proceeding. |
| You have access to seasoned hardwood at reasonable price. | ❓ Weigh cost vs. convenience; hardwood will give cleaner, longer burns. |
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I burn pallets that have a “HT” stamp?
A: No. Heat‑treated pallets have been processed at high temperatures, creating chemicals that release toxic smoke when burned.
Q2: Are galvanized nails dangerous when burning wood?
A: Yes. Galvanized (zinc‑coated) nails release zinc fumes at high temperatures, which can irritate the respiratory system. Always remove all nails before burning.
Q3: How long should pallet wood be seasoned before I can burn it?
A: Aim for at least 6 months of drying time, or until the moisture content is 20 % or lower (you can test with a moisture meter).
Q4: Will burning pallet wood damage my chimney?
A: Pallet wood can produce more creosote than seasoned hardwood. Regular chimney cleaning (at least once a year) is essential to prevent buildup and fire hazards.
Q5: Is it legal to burn pallets in my backyard fire pit?
A: Laws vary. Many jurisdictions prohibit burning treated wood and may have open‑burn bans during certain months. Check with your local fire department or environmental agency.
Q6: Does pallet wood produce more ash than regular firewood?
A: Generally, yes. Pallet wood, especially soft‑wood varieties, leaves medium to high ash. Plan for extra ash disposal.
Q7: Can I use pallet wood in a wood‑burning stove?
A: Only if the pallets are clean, untreated, and fully seasoned. Follow your stove manufacturer’s guidelines and never overload the firebox.
Q8: What’s the best way to store seasoned pallet firewood?
A: Store it off the ground on a rack or a raised pallet, protect the top with a tarp, and keep the sides open for airflow.
Q9: Is pallet firewood environmentally friendly?
A: When it’s untreated and properly seasoned, it’s a good way to recycle waste wood, reducing landfill use. However, burning any wood releases CO₂; use it as a supplement, not your sole heating source.
Q10: How can I tell if a pallet has hidden chemicals?
A: Look for stamps, tags, or discoloration indicating treatment. If in doubt, assume it’s treated and don’t burn it.
8. Final Verdict
Yes—you can use pallet wood for firewood, but only under strict conditions. If you have clean, untreated pallets, are willing to remove nails, season the wood for half a year, and comply with local regulations, pallet firewood can be a cost‑effective, eco‑friendly supplement to your heating routine.
If any of those boxes are unchecked—especially the presence of chemical treatments or galvanized fasteners—the answer is a firm no. Burning the wrong pallet can create a toxic, smelly fire and pose serious health and safety risks.
By following the preparation steps outlined above and staying vigilant about the type of pallets you collect, you’ll enjoy a warm hearth without compromising air quality or breaking the law.
Happy (and safe) burning!