At first glance, kiln dried and heat treated pallets might seem similar since both involve the use of heat. However, their purposes and processes are distinct. Kiln drying focuses on reducing the moisture content in the wood, making it resistant to mold and fungi. The process involves a controlled, slow increase in temperature to achieve desired moisture levels.
On the other hand, heat treatment is primarily about pest control. Its goal is to eliminate potential pests like insects and larvae from the wood. The process requires pallets to be heated to a minimum core temperature for a specified period, typically without the intention of moisture control. While kiln drying can also achieve pest control, its primary focus remains moisture reduction. When considering which treatment is best for your needs, it's essential to identify whether moisture control or pest elimination is your primary concern.