The Dangers of High Moisture Levels in Wooden Pallets

07 Nov 2016

Wooden pallets are favoured for both transportation and storage solutions by a variety of industries. They are lightweight in comparison to many materials, durable, affordable and easy to stack in order to maximise space. However, facilities that have used wooden pallets have become increasingly aware of the dangers and disadvantages of high moisture levels in wooden pallets. Not only can moisture cause the wood to attract mould and decay, but it can warp the overall size, structure, and integrity of the joints.

That’s why at Associated Pallets, we take great care in how we manufacture and store our wooden pallets. To take a full look at our range of products, click here. 

Alternative Pallets

Plastic pallets, paperboard pallets and metal pallets are all alternatives and have created a competitive marketplace. The demands placed on the performance of wooden pallets are higher than ever before. Moisture is one of the greatest threats to the effectiveness of the otherwise highly stable and reliable wooden pallet. Improved awareness of these dangers ensures that companies and consumers feel empowered to prevent the damage and, in some cases, correct any damage that has already occurred.d

How Moisture Affects Wooden Pallets

The presence of water or moisture in pallets increases the risk of mould and mildew forming if left untreated. Mould and mildew are not only unsightly – they are unsanitary too and can contaminate the products, storage facility or the interior of the vehicles in which they are transported. Frequent checks, dry conditions and cleaning areas prior to placing wood pallets there are all needed for the prevention of mould and mildew formation.

As moisture can cause wood to expand, moisture within wooden pallets can result in a heightened risk of the wood splitting or warping over time. This can lead to a reduction in the overall stability of the pallet, as well as making it appear old and untidy when in view. A pallet with high moisture levels will also have additional weight. Coupled with reduced strength and stability, this can quickly become unreliable and unsafe.

As wood is dried, it can shrink. This can affect the effectiveness of the wooden pallets and cause miscalculations in storage areas and transportation, as well as how much weight and what dimensions the pallet can accommodate. The amount of shrinkage experienced can vary depending on a number of factors. These might include the species of wood, how much moisture has been absorbed and the length of time the moisture has been present. Wood will also shrink tangentially rather than radially, with minor or unnoticeable changes in a longitudinal direction (from end to end). Although wood that has absorbed moisture should be dried to maintain its shape, strength and structure, the best practice for avoiding wood shrinkage is to ensure no moisture enters at the outset.

Pallet Products 

Not only can high moisture levels damage the wood pallet itself, but it can also damage the products supported by it. Wet conditions can lead to the development of mould and mildew. Metal products can be corroded or rusted. Paper products can be destroyed, and other products can be compromised by moisture levels too. A ruined batch of products can have serious financial and organisational repercussions for a business, leading to delays, recalls and poor performance.

How To Keep Your Pallets & Products Safe 

To ensure that the pallets you use remain safe from water damage, make sure to do the following: 

• Frequent checks – This will allow you to monitor if the pallets, and any products they may be transporting, are kept safe from any potential leaks or spillage. 
• Ensure they are stored in a dry area – While in storage, make sure that the area you have pallets is within a dry area of the building. This will help to prevent possible warping or shrinking that can occur if the pallets are water damaged. 
• Keep the area clean – Ensuring that the area you plan to place the pallets is cleaned prior to placing the pallets can also help to avoid the dangers of moisture affecting the wood. 

Preventing moisture in pallets can be key to ensuring the products remain safe and pristine.

Wooden Pallet Prices

Make sure the wooden pallets you use for shipping and storage are of high quality by ordering from our site today. Our factory allows us to ensure that the new and used pallets we manufacture and refurbish are kept safe from water damage. The secure checkout system found on the site makes it easy to order the amount and type of pallets you require. Should you have any questions for us, please feel free to use the local number 02380 667 999. Alternatively, you can fill in your details via our contact form, and a member of the team will be in touch to help answer any questions you may have. 

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