Wooden pallets can be used to build not only iconic furniture, but also all sorts of things for the garden. Since the pallets correspond to a European-wide standardized size (so-called “Euro pallet”), crafting and building with this type of recycled material is usually particularly uncomplicated.
How do I build a privacy screen out of pallets?
To build a privacy screen from pallets, stack and screw several wooden pallets together. Secure the structure with stable pillars and a foundation. Decorate the pallet wall with climbing plants, hanging or integrated flower pots for an attractive look.
Obtain suitable craft materials legally
For several years now, there has been a real hype around crafting and DIY with wooden pallets. In addition, economic developments ensure that Euro pallets intended for multiple use are generally only removed from the economic cycle when there are significant signs of material fatigue. In order to obtain the pallets, which are valued for their stability, it is worth asking commercial or trading companies. Although Euro pallets are generally accepted and returned according to an exchange and deposit system, at some points in the pallet cycle pallets still accumulate and sometimes even have to be disposed of at great cost. Since transporting the relatively bulky and heavy pallets over long distances is laborious, it is worth doing online research into possible pallet sources in the local area.
Build lounge furniture and a privacy screen for the terrace out of pallets
With an appropriate protective coating, outdoor lounge furniture made from wooden pallets can last for several years. For example, to create a comfortable outdoor lounge chair, three pallets are simply stacked on top of each other and screwed together. Armrests and the backrest are created from another, cleverly sawn pallet. While wooden pallets for furniture construction must first be thoroughly sanded smooth, any splinters of wood are only of limited concern when building a privacy wall. Of course, a particularly characteristic aesthetic results when the privacy wall and patio furniture are made from recycled pallets.
Heavyweights: Secure pallets adequately when building privacy screens
In order to be able to build a high privacy wall yourself, you need an appropriate foundation and stable pillars to secure the second and sometimes third row of pallets. If the very heavy pallets are stacked on top of each other with inadequate security, this could lead to significant injuries in the event of an accident. You can build a practical holder, for example, using sturdy square timbers (€61.00 at Amazon) from the hardware store, which are connected to the ground using earth sleeves or a concrete foundation.
Build a flowering privacy wall or raised bed
Similar to a stone wall made of gabions, a privacy wall made of pallets can also seem a bit naked after the initial enthusiasm has worn off. But you can easily spice up a pallet wall in various ways:
- with climbing plants
- with hanging flower pots (usually sold with a special metal hook for the balcony railing)
- with flower pots that are integrated into the existing crossbars of the pallets
If two pallets are joined upright and screwed together, the upper part can be used as a raised bed with an appropriate lining.
Tip
Old pallets sometimes have a patina caused by weathering, which can be quite attractive. With a sander you can quickly “tickle out” the original wood color on pallets that are not too weathered.