As a byproduct of the recent building work at WMD HQ I have acquired a lot of wood in the form of things that were removed during the work as well as some pallets that had building materials on them. It doesn't look particularly attractive strewn on the drive and no doubt is commented upon by passers by. However there is a reason I asked the builders to leave the timber. Firstly some is useful to construct outside things such as bird tables or compost bins. Secondly there is an open fire in the lounge and on a cold evening having a fire does make it nice and cosy. So having a supply of redundant wood to burn is useful! Just that I had to sort out what was suitable and what needs to go to the recycling center. If its painted it can release harmful fumes when burnt so is best dealt with by the experts who recycle such things.
Now much to my amazement the World of pallet dismantling is a highly specialised one with various websites and YouTube videos demonstrating the ideal tools and methods as well as how to identify the type of pallet! No doubt all very useful for those into such things but for me a selection of large hammers and cold chisels are my preferred tools of butchery!
The first pallet to be tackled seemed to be made from fossilised wood as the stuff just shattered at the slightest tap from the hammer although the nails just would not come out. The other pallets were a lot easier and after a few hours it still looks a tip but a slightly more organised one!
Whilst in the working outside mood I also tackled some of the many sprouting weeds. All in all a good result but I am shattered. So I am going to play operate some trains and just sit back and watch them go by which should at least calm any nearby surplus wood from fears of my butchery. However in the meantime the WMD Film Division has been busy with the latest escapades on my 009 narrow gauge layout. For your cure of insomnia just click the video below!
