How to waterproof timber pallets?

[tee22]

Hi. I have 4 timber pallets and I am wanting to coat them with a vanish or someone similar to prevent them from rotting. I have 4 pallets that I will be cutting up and was wondering what’s the cheapest option to coat them as they will be left outside holding pot plants. 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @tee22. It's amazing that you've joined us, and many thanks for your question about coating timber pallets.

You'll find as long as the pallet timber can dry out after it is has become wet, it'll last for several years, even uncoated. I have several garden beds made from uncoated pallets, though I have lined the inside where soil contacts them with Builder's Plastic. 

For extra protection on a budget, I'd suggest coating them with Timber Protect 1L Oil Based Natural Exterior Decking Oil or Bondall 1L Cedar Monocel Gold Marine Grade Stain And Varnish.

Please keep us updated on your project, and we'd love to see your results. Let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell