Cedar Pallet Wood: The DIYer’s Guide to a Sustainable, Aromatic, and Beautiful Material
If you’ve ever walked through a warehouse, you’ve probably seen rows of wooden pallets stacked like giant Lego bricks. While most of those pallets are made from pine or hardwood, a growing number of suppliers are offering cedar pallets—and for good reason. In this post you’ll discover why cedar pallet wood is worth a closer look, how to source and work with it, and which projects make the most of its unique qualities.
Why Cedar Pallet Wood Stands Out
| Feature | Cedar Pallet Wood | Typical Pine Pallet | Hardwood (Oak/Maple) Pallet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light to moderate (≈ 30‑35 lb/ft³) | Light (≈ 28 lb/ft³) | Heavy (≈ 45‑50 lb/ft³) |
| Durability | Naturally rot‑resistant, insect‑proof | Susceptible to moisture & pests | Very strong, but can warp if not sealed |
| Aroma | Distinct, pleasant “cedar” scent that repels moths | No natural scent | No scent |
| Workability | Easy to cut, nail, and screw; low splinter risk | Easy, but can be resinous | Harder to machine, may dull tools |
| Environmental Impact | Often reclaimed from surplus cedar decking | Frequently new, harvested from fast‑growing softwoods | High carbon footprint if sourced from old‑growth forests |
| Cost (per pallet) | $80‑$120 (reclaimed) | $25‑$45 (new) | $100‑$150 (new, specialty) |
Bottom line: Cedar pallets combine the lightness of pine with the durability of hardwood, plus a built‑in natural fragrance that keeps insects at bay. If you’re looking for a material that’s both eco‑friendly and aesthetically pleasing, cedar pallet wood deserves a spot in your toolbox.
Where to Find Cedar Pallet Wood
- Reclaimed‑Decking Suppliers – Many decking companies replace worn cedar boards with composite or treated material. They often sell the removed deck sections as pallets or bulk lumber at a discount.
- Industrial Recycling Centers – Facilities that accept construction debris may have a “pallet bin” for cedar pallets that have been separated from mixed wood.
- Online Marketplaces – Platforms such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and even Etsy list “cedar pallets” from small businesses that upcycle them into furniture or décor.
- Direct From Sawmills – In cedar‑rich regions (Pacific Northwest, parts of the Southeast), sawmills occasionally produce pallet‑size cuts for local manufacturers.
Tip: Always ask the seller whether the pallets have been treated with chemicals (e.g., methyl bromide, chromated copper arsenate). For indoor projects or anything that will contact food, you’ll want untreated, kiln‑dried cedar.
Preparing Cedar Pallet Wood for Use
1. Inspect and Sort
| Issue | How to Identify | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Nails / Staples | Visible metal, protruding heads | Use a nail puller or a reciprocating saw with a metal‑cutting blade. |
| Rot or Decay | Dark, soft spots; musty smell | Cut out the compromised sections; keep only solid, dry wood. |
| Warp/Check | Bowed edges, cracks along grain | Plane or joint‑saw to flatten; you can also use a belt sander for minor warps. |
| Surface Resin | Sticky, amber‑colored spots | Lightly sand with 80‑120 grit; wipe with a damp cloth. |
2. Clean the Surface
- Mild Soap Solution: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, scrub with a stiff brush, then rinse.
- Vinegar Rinse (Optional): A 1:1 vinegar‑water rinse helps neutralize any lingering odors from previous use.
- Dry Thoroughly: Lay the boards flat in a sunny, well‑ventilated area for at least 24 hours. Cedar dries quickly, but moisture trapped inside can cause later warping.
3. Finish (Optional)
- Clear Finish: A spar urethane or marine varnish preserves the natural grain and scent while protecting against moisture.
- Stain: If you prefer a darker tone, use a penetrating oil‑based stain; cedar takes color well.
- Paint: For a rustic, “shiplap” look, a matte chalk paint works nicely—just be sure to prime first because cedar can absorb paint unevenly.
Project Ideas That Shine With Cedar Pallet Wood
1. Outdoor Furniture – The Cedar Deck Chair
Cedar’s resistance to rot makes it perfect for a DIY deck chair. A simple plan involves:
- Two side rails (≈ 6 ft) for the backrest, slatted at 1‑inch intervals.
- Four legs cut to the desired height (usually 18‑20 in).
- A slatted seat and a footrest, both using the same spacing.
Because cedar naturally repels moths, you’ll enjoy a bug‑free lounging spot for years.
2. Garden Planters – Cedar “Box” Planters
The aromatic wood deters soil‑borne pests and nematodes. Build a box using three boards: a bottom, two side walls, and a removable top for easy soil changes. Line with a breathable landscape fabric, fill with potting mix, and you’ve got a low‑maintenance planter that also adds a warm glow to any patio.
3. Indoor Storage – Cedar Closet Organizers
Cedar’s pleasant scent works wonders in wardrobes, keeping clothes fresh and moth‑free. Construct a set of Cedar Shelf Dividers, a hanging rack, or a shoe rack using pallet boards. The natural oil in cedar will slowly release fragrance over time, eliminating the need for chemical deodorizers.
4. Wall Art & Accent Panels
The grain of cedar is striking when displayed vertically or horizontally. Create a feature wall by attaching ½‑inch cedar slats over a drywall surface, leaving gaps for a “shadow box” effect. You can even laser‑etch simple silhouettes for a personalized touch.
Working Tips: Tools & Techniques Specific to Cedar
| Tool | Why It Matters for Cedar | Recommended Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Circular Saw | Clean cuts; cedar’s softness can cause “tear‑out” if the blade is dull. | Use a fine‑tooth (40‑60 TPI) blade; 3000‑RPM max. |
| Router | For rounded edges or decorative profiles. | 12‑15 000 RPM; shallow passes (¼‑½ in). |
| Sander | Cedar sands quickly; you can achieve a smooth finish in fewer passes. | Random‑orbit, 120‑grit for initial sanding, 220‑grit for final. |
| Nail Gun | Prevents splitting; cedar’s low density can cause nail heads to sink. | Use 1‑½‑in. finishing nails; pre‑drill pilot holes for larger fasteners. |
| Wood Glue | PVA works fine, but for outdoor joints a polyurethane adhesive offers better water resistance. | Apply thin, even bead; clamp for 30‑45 min. |
Safety Note: Cedar dust can be a mild respiratory irritant. Wear a dust mask (N95 or higher) and work in a well‑ventilated space, especially when sanding or cutting.
Cedar Pallet Wood vs. Other Pallet Materials: A Quick Comparative Snapshot
| Criterion | Cedar Pallet | Pine Pallet (Standard) | Spruce/Soft‑Wood Pallet | Reclaimed Hard‑Wood Pallet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moisture Resistance | ★★★★☆ (natural oils) | ★★☆☆☆ (prone to rot) | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ (dense, often kiln‑dried) |
| Insect Resistance | ★★★★★ (repels moths) | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ (depends on species) |
| Workability | ★★★★★ (soft, low splinter) | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ (harder, can dull tools) |
| Cost (US) | $80‑$120 per pallet | $25‑$45 | $30‑$55 | $120‑$200 |
| Environmental Score | ★★★★★ (reclaimed, low carbon) | ★★☆☆☆ (often new, fast‑grow) | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ (reclaimed) |
If you’re deciding which pallet material to adopt, cedar comes out ahead for projects where longevity, scent, and indoor air quality matter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is cedar pallet wood safe for food‑contact surfaces? | Yes, as long as the pallet is untreated and has not been exposed to chemicals. After cleaning and sanding, you can finish it with food‑safe mineral oil or a beeswax polish. |
| How can I tell if a cedar pallet has been chemically treated? | Look for a green or brown stain on the wood, a label stating “treated,” or an unusual metallic smell. If you’re unsure, test a small area with a solvent (e.g., denatured alcohol). Treated pallets should never be used for indoor or food‑related projects. |
| Do I need to seal cedar pallets for outdoor use? | While cedar naturally resists rot, sealing with a spar urethane or exterior oil extends its life by 2‑3 years and helps maintain color. |
| Can I reuse the same pallet boards for multiple projects? | Absolutely. Cedar is forgiving; you can sand it down, refinish, and repurpose it many times without losing structural integrity. |
| What’s the typical size of a cedar pallet? | Most pallets are 48 × 40 in (standard U.S. size) with a thickness of ¾‑1 in. Some reclaimed decks may be longer (up to 8 ft) but can be cut down to size. |
| Will cedar pallet wood shrink or warp after I finish it? | Cedar has low shrinkage (~ 2‑3 % across the grain). Proper drying and an even finish will minimize movement. |
| Is the cedar scent strong enough to act as a natural insect repellent? | Yes, the aromatic oils (thujaplicins) are effective against moths, clothes moths, and certain beetles. The scent fades slowly over years, especially if the wood is sealed. |
| Can I paint cedar pallets? | You can, but prime first. Cedar’s porous nature can cause paint to soak unevenly, leading to streaks. A water‑based acrylic primer works well. |
| How do I remove the nails without damaging the wood? | Use a pneumatic nail puller or a reciprocating saw with a metal‑cutting blade. If you’re concerned about split ends, clamp a piece of scrap wood behind the nail before pulling. |
| What’s the best way to store leftover cedar pallet boards? | Stack them flat on a dry shelf, elevate the bottom board to allow airflow, and cover with a breathable tarp (avoid plastic, which traps moisture). |
Bottom Line: Should You Choose Cedar Pallet Wood?
If you read this far, you’re probably already picturing a cedar‑scented coffee table or a set of garden planters in your mind. Cedar pallet wood offers a rare combo of durability, natural fragrance, and workability—plus a story of reuse that aligns with today’s sustainability goals.
- For outdoor furniture and garden structures, the rot‑resistance alone makes cedar a low‑maintenance winner.
- For indoor storage or décor, the aromatic qualities turn the wood into a functional air‑freshener.
- For budget‑conscious DIYers, reclaimed cedar can be a cost‑effective alternative to buying fresh cedar lumber, especially when you factor in the reduced need for chemical treatments and finishes.
The only drawbacks are the higher initial price and the occasional need to verify that pallets are untreated. However, when you weigh those against the long‑term benefits—fewer replacements, a pleasant scent, and a smaller carbon footprint—cedar pallets are often the smarter choice.
So the next time you’re scouting for material, don’t pass up those cedar pallets. With a little preparation, they can become the cornerstone of some of your most cherished projects.
Happy building!