Kiln-dried logs are an excellent choice for your wood burner for a number of reasons. They burn cleaner, last longer, and have helpfully removed insects and mould during the drying process. Storing kiln dried logs properly, however, is key to enjoying those benefits. So, what do you need to know about how to store logs outside?

Where is the best place to store your logs?

The very best place to store your kiln-dried logs is indoors. You're looking for a dry, low-humidity environment to keep your logs as free from moisture as possible. You can store your logs in the house, and that's perfect, but the trouble is that most people don't have room for a dedicated log store within the home. You can store them in the attic, but it might be inconvenient to get them when you need them. You could also store them in the basement, but not every home has one. We are sometimes asked “Can I store logs in a shed?” read on to learn more.

Can you store kiln dried logs outside?

That means another option to consider is storing kiln dried logs in a garage, shed, or other outbuildings. Many exterior outbuildings unfortunately aren't completely damp-proof but don't worry too much about that as it will still be better than storing your logs outside exposed to the elements. Naturally be sure to keep your firewood away from intense heat sources, as well-dried wood presents an even stronger risk of catching fire than normal seasoned wood.

If you have room in your shed or garage, think about putting a wooden pallet down on the floor before stacking your logs on top of it. This will help prevent any moisture from rising through the floor and seeping into your logs. It'll also help improve airflow under the logs and will make leaning down to reach them that little bit more convenient. If your outbuilding is free of leaks, a simple wooden or plastic pallet will be all you need - don't worry about covering your logs over with a tarp or plastic sheeting - kiln dried logs in nets are just fine. Also try and avoid storing kiln dried logs right up against a wall, leave at least a few inches gap.

Can I store logs in a shed? Or storing logs in garage space

Not everyone has a garage, outbuilding, or space in their shed to store kiln-dried logs. The good news is that you can still store them outside if you really need to - but you're going to have to think a little more about where you put them, and what you're going to store kiln dried logs nets in.

Consider buying a log store

The first thing to know is that just storing kiln dried logs on a wooden pallet like you can in your garage isn't going to work outdoors. A primary investment is going to be in a dedicated log storage unit. These aren't particularly expensive, and you don't need a huge fancy one. All you're mainly looking for is something to keep the rain off the wood from the top, and the moisture from the ground from the bottom. Keep it simple and practical in design.

A good wood store needs ventilation, so don't rush for one that's fully enclosed either. You need a way for air to keep flowing through your logs to help ensure they stay as dry as possible. Look for a log store that has some open slats built into its design, or specifically mentions airflow and ventilation. Ideally, your log store should have legs, to make sure that your logs aren't going to be sitting directly on the ground.

How to store kiln dried logs – factors to consider

There are a few things to consider when it comes to how to store logs outside and the right placement of your log store, too.

1)    Consider moisture levels

The first is that you should place it on hard ground, if possible. The grass is obviously a huge source of moisture, and you're trying to minimise your contact with moisture as much as possible. If you put even a metal log store on grass, the moisture can cause condensation inside the unit itself, and that's going to drip down on your logs and mean they're in a more humid atmosphere than is ideal. So be sure to put your log store on concrete if possible.

2)    Consider positioning

The second thing to think about is how the sunshine and wind generally travel through your garden. Ideally, you want to place your log store where it's going to get some sun and a steady breeze through it. The breeze is most important, as this is what's going to keep your logs well-ventilated and as dry as possible. It's worth doing a little research in your garden, with the help of a wind direction indicator, to determine the path wind most often takes. It's important to note, however, that you shouldn't put your logs in the windiest spot as it could help carry in rain. So, consider the location very carefully.

3)    Consider what is overhead

Something else to consider is what's overhead. Don't put your logs under the cover of trees, as moisture forms in them and ends up dripping down off the leaves and branches - effectively storing your kiln dried logs under their own little rainstorm. This is also true of overhead guttering or overhanging roofs and structures.

4)    Avoid stacking logs too high

Avoid log stacks which are too high, as this can increase the risk of them becoming unstable and collapsing.

5)    Check regularly and dispose of damaged logs

Check logs regularly for signs of rot, fungus, or decay. If any logs are found to have become rotten, it is best to discard them.

Think about how much you need

If you're going to be storing your kiln-dried wood outside, it's better to not buy quite so much at a time. This will help prevent unused wood from sitting out in the elements for too long. When asking yourself “can you store kiln dried logs outside” think about how much you use, and leave yourself some leeway for emergencies, when it comes to ordering your wood. For example, you may want to think about investing in weekly wood deliveries, rather than monthly or bi-monthly, to better allow you to gauge how much you need. Keeping an eye on advanced weather forecasts can help too, as it'll give you an indication of when you need to order more if it's going to get cold, or order less if it's going to be warmer.

How to store logs outside is easy with our guide

This guide should show you how to store logs outside and that storage of kiln dried logs bags and nets is easy when you know what you need to look out for. The main things you need to know are to keep them off the floor, and make sure they stay as dry as possible - the rest is up to your preference and circumstances.

Speak to Cozilogs about storing kiln dried logs

We hope you have enjoyed this article about how to store logs outside. Discuss storing logs in garage space and how to store kiln dried logs direct with us. Cozilogs would be delighted to resolve your queries when you contact us in any of the following ways:

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