If you use firewood regularly, it makes sense to store it correctly. This will help you to avoid problems such as mould and fungus and help to keep it dry, so it is ready for use. There are some aspects to consider before you store your firewood, so read on and discover some handy firewood storage solutions.
Firewood storage begins with the right location
One of the first factors you need to consider is where you store your firewood. The main thing you need to remember is that firewood needs to be dry. If you store it in a damp place that is exposed to the elements, it will become unusable because it will become too wet.
The main aspect to remember is that wood should be stored outside. The most effective tip for firewood storage is to ensure it is ventilated. This will help to maintain its quality and will also keep it dry. A flow of natural air will keep the wood in perfect condition while keeping it outside can prevent problems associated with storing it inside your home.
Therefore, firewood storage is easier than you might think with some prior planning and understanding.
Find a breezy spot
Essentially, firewood storage needs to be done the right way. Therefore, picking a spot and hoping for the best will only end in disappointment. As mentioned, you need to make sure you choose the right position to store your wood.
Find a breezy spot, if possible, for your firewood
Airflow is vital for successful firewood storage. It allows air to move around the wood, keeping it dry and that is why you should find a spot that is open to wind and breeze. However, you should also make sure that the spot is as dry as possible. Don’t place it next to a structure as this can reduce airflow and keep it away from your home as it can become a fire hazard.
The aim is to allow air to flow both ways, so keep it several inches above the ground and away from any structure. Where possible, try to find somewhere sheltered although placing it under trees should be avoided as the humidity and mist can cause an issue.
Split your firewood
It can seem tempting to simply put your firewood into storage in the hope that it will be ready to use. While this is possible, if you split your firewood before you begin using it, then you will be assisting in the drying process. You will be exposing more of the wood to the air as a result of a larger surface area. This will speed up the process and ensure that your wood is ready to use.
Another benefit of doing this is that your firewood will be easier to manage.
Stack it correctly using pallets
There is some element of skill to firewood storage and getting it right. You might think that piling your firewood up is good enough, but this is not the case. For the ideal stack, you should store it in rows and these rows should not be above four feet in height.
Storing firewood has to be managed the right way or else it will suffer from dampness and rot
You could decide to store your wood on wooden pallets, as this will help you to keep them off the ground. The gaps in pallets will also help to hold the logs in place as you stack them. It is not a case of stacking them on top of each other as this will not help with the airflow. So, after you have laid the first row, the second row should be laid in a staggered pattern, with each log sitting between the two logs beneath it.
If you have seasoned logs, then you should make sure that they are stored with the bark facing upwards. This can help to protect your wood from the elements.
Firewood storage shed
One of the most useful storage solutions available is a firewood storage shed. This is a purpose-built shed that is designed for housing your firewood. You can choose to build one yourself or you can purchase them ready-made.
You can build yours as large or as small as you wish, depending on your firewood storage needs. It should be designed to help improve airflow which means that it shouldn’t be a sealed structure. Therefore, there should be gaps around all sides and you can include a roof to help provide additional protection from the elements.
Firewood box
A firewood box is another useful solution that enables you to bring your dry firewood up to your house. This is essentially a storage container where you can store wood that is going to be used in the coming days.
It can help to make it easier to access the wood you need as you can bring it closer to your home. Again, these boxes will be designed with slatted panels on all sides, allowing air to move freely around the wood. However, it is important that the wood you place inside your firewood box is completely dry as they are not designed for wet wood.
A wood shed is a great way of storing firewood
Use a protective rack
Protection is vital when it comes to firewood storage. As has been the theme throughout this article, protecting your wood from the elements is crucial. A protective rack will help to shield your wood from harsh weather during the year.
They should be open on all sides, and they should also have an opening at the front for easy access. These racks can help to overcome stacking issues as they come with shelves that allow you to store your wood easily and efficiently.
Store firewood using a steel rack
From the options above, you might think that the best way to store your firewood is by using solutions made of wood but why not think outside of the box? A strong and durable frame is necessary, and a steel rack will give you just that. The steel will withstand the elements and will provide a modern look when storing your wood.
They are available in a range of sizes and come with a removable cover, giving you a highly effective solution that can keep the exterior of your home looking modern. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about rotting or damp wooden racks that will eventually fail.
Easy transport with a Firewood log cart
One consideration that people fail to consider is how to move their firewood when it comes to using it. The amount of wood required can differ, depending on whether you use it for a stove, fireplace or pizza oven. However, it all needs to be moved and that can prove a challenge as wood is heavy. The last thing you need is to have to make multiple trips to the place where your wood is stored to retrieve what you need. This is where a firewood log cart can really help.
It acts as storage and comes with wheels, so you can move it around if required. This will also help with stacking but also finding the right spot based on the weather and elements.
Save space with wood storage seating
Not everyone is blessed with space to store firewood while also having a usable garden. Therefore, why not combine a seating area with a place to store your wood? This is a handy solution that actually adds character to your garden and is a focal point. Much like the way in which people store wood alongside their fireplace indoors as a feature, you can do the same outside.
If you are a handy DIY’er then this could become a project that allows you to be as creative as you wish. Of course, the seating must be comfortable and fit for use but underneath the seating is where you will store the firewood. So, remember that airflow is important, so keep the front open and the sides and back well-ventilated and you will find that you have a multi-functional solution that provides storage and seating.
Firewood stored indoors can prove effective but also makes for an excellent focal point
Storing firewood indoors
In some instances, it just isn’t possible to store firewood outdoors which means that indoors is the only option. If your wood is completely dry, then you can confidently store it inside and this is where you have a wide range of options. You can use an old wicker basket which still offers some element of ventilation, or you can build shelving in an alcove that can be used for storing wood and ornaments on separate shelving. If you have a bookcase going spare, then you can also turn this into a feature and use it to store your firewood. When it comes to keeping firewood indoors, you have a wealth of options but remember to make sure that your firewood is pest free and dry as this will stop mould from developing.
Get creative
When storing firewood, you have a range of options available, enabling you to get creative. Whether it is indoors or outdoors, the most important factor to consider is the condition of the wood. Ensuring it is in pristine condition will maximise your chances of creating the perfect fire!
Discuss storage solutions for firewood with Cozilogs
We at Cozilogs are happy to help you with your firewood storage solution needs. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your firewood storage solution needs further, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to helping you! Contact us in the following ways:
- Contact Us - https://www.cozilogs.co.uk/contact/
- Email – sales@cozilogs.co.uk and
- Telephone - (01905) 954 736
Image Credits: Michael Morse, Hasan Anac, Uschi_Du, Tama66 and Rachel Claire.