Firewood Storage Tips
Ahhh, the sound of a crackling fire on a cold evening. It’s a beautiful sound. But to enjoy those glowing flames, your firewood must be stored just right. Damp, moldy logs? Not ideal.
Proper firewood storage makes all the difference, keeping your wood dry, your fires efficient, and your winter nights full of warmth. It’s also the key to being able to cook over a campfire! (Speaking of which, we have a full writeup on how to build a campfire for cooking, if you’re interested.)
Here’s everything you need to know to keep your firewood in tip-top shape!
The Perfect Spot for Your Firewood
Outdoors is Where It’s At
Firewood loves fresh air. Storing it outside gives it the ventilation it needs to stay dry and ready to burn. Keep it out of your house, where moisture and creepy crawlers could turn it into a disaster.
Keep It Off the Ground
Moisture from the ground can sneak into your firewood, leaving it soggy and unusable. Solve this by elevating your woodpile. Wooden pallets, cinder blocks, or a sturdy firewood rack work like a charm. Plus, it keeps pests like termites from feasting on your logs.
Sunshine, With a Dash of Shade
Choose a sunny spot where the sun can dry your wood during the day. But don’t let it bake in the sun endlessly—extreme heat can cause cracks. A bit of shade helps balance things out while still letting airflow do its thing.
Mastering the Art of Stacking
Stack Neatly, Burn Brightly
A random pile of logs might look rustic, but it’s terrible for airflow. Proper stacking allows air to circulate, which speeds up drying and keeps rot away. Aim for straight, tidy rows, leaving gaps between logs for that all-important ventilation.
Variety is the Spice of Stacking
Mix it up! Stack smaller split pieces at the bottom and larger logs on top. The smaller pieces help support the pile and allow even more airflow through the stack. Plus, you’ll have a mix of sizes handy when it’s time to build your fire.
Cover, But Don’t Suffocate
Rain and snow are firewood’s worst enemies. Protect your pile with a breathable tarp or firewood cover. Avoid wrapping it up too tightly, though—trapped moisture is just as bad as a downpour. Leave the sides open to keep the air flowing.
Managing Moisture Like a Pro
Season Your Wood
Seasoned firewood is the golden ticket to great fires. Let your wood dry for at least six months (a year is even better). Burning green, unseasoned wood not only creates more smoke but also wastes heat and can gunk up your chimney.
See also: How to Build a Fire Without All the Smoke
Check That Moisture Content
Want to know if your wood is ready? Use a moisture meter! This handy tool will tell you if your firewood’s moisture content is below 20%—the sweet spot for clean, efficient burning.
Stay Ahead of the Elements
A breathable tarp isn’t just for rain. It’s also a shield against snow, sleet, and dew. Keep your stack covered, but not closed off, to maintain the perfect drying conditions.
Extra Tips for Firewood Success
Keep it Away From Your Home
As convenient as it sounds, don’t store firewood right next to your house. Bugs and critters love hanging out in woodpiles, and the last thing you want is for them to find their way into your home. Keep your stack a safe distance away.
Rotate Your Logs
Make sure your oldest wood gets used first. When adding new logs to your stack, place them on top or in a separate section to ensure they dry properly. Rotating your firewood like this keeps your supply fresh and ready.
Invest in a Firewood Shed
If you’ve got the space, a firewood shed is a fantastic option. These structures are designed with ventilation in mind, keeping your wood dry while protecting it from the elements. Think of it as a cozy little home for your logs.
The Joy of a Well-Prepared Firewood Stack
When you take the time to store your firewood properly, you set yourself up for countless evenings of warmth and comfort. With neat stacks, seasoned logs, and just the right amount of protection, your firewood will be ready to light up any winter night. And remember: happy wood means happy fires, and happy fires make the best memories.
