If you’re serious about keeping your firewood dry and protected, building a simple firewood shed is a game-changer. It keeps your wood off the ground, shields it from rain and snow, and helps it season faster. The best part? You can build one yourself with some basic tools and materials.
What You’ll Need
- (8) 2×4 boards (8 feet long)
- (2) 4×4 posts (8 feet long)
- (5) sheets of plywood (4×8 feet)
- Wood screws (3 inches)
- Roofing material (metal sheets, shingles, or a tarp)
- A saw (hand or circular)
- Drill with a screwdriver bit
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Optional: Paint or wood sealer for weatherproofing
Step 1: Choose a Location
Pick a spot that’s level and well-drained. Avoid low-lying areas where water collects. Ideally, the location should get some sun and have good airflow to help your firewood dry faster.
Step 2: Build the Base
Cut two of the 8-foot 2×4 boards in half to make four 4-foot pieces. Use these, along with two full 8-foot boards, to create a rectangular frame for the base. Lay the frame flat on the ground and screw it together. To elevate the base, attach the 4×4 posts to the corners, cutting them to a height of 1–2 feet depending on how high you want the floor. This keeps your wood off the ground and away from moisture.
Step 3: Install the Floor
Lay a sheet of plywood over the base frame and screw it down. This will serve as the floor of your shed. If you want better airflow under the wood, you can use slats instead of a solid sheet—just leave gaps between the slats for ventilation.
Step 4: Build the Walls
Using the 2×4 boards, construct two rectangular frames for the side walls. Each wall should be about 6 feet high and 8 feet wide. Leave the front open for easy access to your wood. Cover the back wall with plywood and attach the side walls to the base using screws. Check that everything is level and square.
Step 5: Add a Sloped Roof
To keep rain and snow from collecting, you’ll need a sloped roof. Cut your remaining 2x4s to create rafters, with one side slightly longer than the other to create the slope. Attach the rafters to the top of the side walls, then screw on sheets of plywood to form the roof. Cover the roof with your chosen material, such as metal sheets, shingles, or a heavy-duty tarp, to make it weatherproof.
Step 6: Secure the Structure
Add cross braces between the walls to reinforce the shed and keep it stable. You can use leftover 2x4s for this step. If your shed is in a windy area, consider anchoring the 4×4 posts to the ground with metal brackets or concrete footings.
Step 7: Paint or Seal (Optional)
To protect your shed from the elements, apply a coat of paint or wood sealer. This step isn’t necessary, but it can significantly extend the life of your shed, especially if it’s exposed to rain or snow.
Step 8: Stack Your Firewood
Once the shed is complete, start stacking your firewood. Place the larger logs on the bottom for stability and leave some space between the rows for airflow. Keep the stack under the roofline to ensure it stays dry.
Final Thoughts
A DIY firewood shed doesn’t have to be fancy—it just needs to keep your firewood dry and organized. With a little effort and some basic tools, you can build a shed that lasts for years and makes managing your wood supply a breeze. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a neatly stacked pile of firewood ready for winter.
Here’s How to Build a Firewood Rack with Basic Tools