Firewood storage might seem straightforward—chop the wood, stack it, and let it sit. But there’s more to it than meets the eye. Proper storage ensures your firewood stays dry, pest-free, and ready to burn efficiently. Missteps, on the other hand, can lead to soggy, moldy logs or, worse, a home crawling with bugs. Let’s break down firewood storage’s essential dos and don’ts to keep your stack in tip-top shape.
The Dos of Firewood Storage
1. Do Keep It Elevated
Firewood stacked directly on the ground is an open invitation for moisture and pests. Use pallets, bricks, or a dedicated firewood rack to elevate your woodpile. This allows airflow underneath and keeps the bottom logs dry.
2. Do Cover It Properly
A good cover protects your wood from rain and snow but allows airflow. Use a tarp or firewood cover to shield the top of the pile while leaving the sides exposed for ventilation. Bonus: It also keeps the wood from sweating.
3. Do Choose the Right Location
Pick a spot that’s sunny and breezy. Firewood needs plenty of airflow to dry and stay dry. Store your wood at least 20 feet away from your home to reduce the risk of pests migrating indoors.
4. Do Stack Smartly
Stack your wood in rows with enough space for air to circulate. A crisscross pattern works wonders for ventilation and stability. If you’re seasoning wood, ensure the bark faces upward to protect against rain.
5. Do Rotate Your Stock
Burn the oldest, driest wood first. Keeping your stack in rotation prevents forgotten logs from rotting at the bottom. Organize your pile so the seasoned wood is easy to access.
6. Do Check for Pests
Inspect your wood regularly for signs of termites, ants, or other pests. A quick sprinkle of diatomaceous earth around the base can help keep unwanted critters at bay.
The Don’ts of Firewood Storage
1. Don’t Store Wood Indoors
Bringing firewood into your home too early invites pests and moisture indoors. Only bring in as much as you’ll burn in a day or two. Your living room isn’t a log cabin, after all!
2. Don’t Cover the Entire Pile
Wrapping your woodpile like a burrito might seem like a good idea, but it traps moisture and encourages mold growth. Let your wood breathe—cover the top only and expose the sides.
3. Don’t Store Unseasoned Wood
Burning unseasoned (wet) wood is inefficient and smoky, not to mention it leads to creosote buildup in your chimney. Always season your wood for at least 6-12 months before burning it.
4. Don’t Store Wood Too Close to Your Home
Stacking wood right against your house is tempting for convenience, but that’s a big no-no. Pests like termites and rodents can easily migrate from your woodpile to your walls. Keep your stack a safe distance—at least 20 feet away.
5. Don’t Forget to Inspect Your Stack
Neglected woodpiles can develop mold, rot, or become infested with pests. Regularly check your pile for issues and re-stack to promote even drying.
6. Don’t Use Plastic Covers Without Ventilation
Plastic might seem waterproof, but it traps moisture and suffocates your wood. If you must use plastic, ensure it’s loosely fitted and allows airflow.
Tips for Perfect Firewood Storage
- Label Your Stacks: If you’re seasoning multiple batches, label them with the cut date so you know which wood to use first.
- Use a Firewood Shed: A shed with open sides is an excellent long-term storage solution, combining protection and ventilation.
- Know Your Wood Types: Hardwoods like oak and hickory store better and burn longer than softwoods like pine.
360 Key Takeaways
- Do: Elevate your stack, keep it ventilated, and store it away from your home. Rotate wood for freshness.
- Don’t: Cover too tightly, store wood indoors, or burn unseasoned logs. Avoid pest-prone storage practices.
- Pro Tip: Proper firewood storage isn’t just about convenience but safety, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
Mastering the dos and don’ts of firewood storage ensures you’ll have dry, efficient burning logs ready when you need them. Follow these tips, and your firewood pile will stay in perfect shape—no pests, no soggy logs, just warm, crackling fires.