Storing logs outside: Should you keep them in bags? [UPDATED]

If you don't have fires too often, you might choose to purchase bulk bag kiln dried logs, especially if you don't have a dedicated weatherproof log store or woodshed for keeping logs in. Our bagged kiln dried logs are supplied in hard-wearing plastic bags of woven polypropylene. This tough material is waterproof and thanks to the woven structure, they are very sturdy, making them less likely to rip or tear and let damp in, while allowing breathability to prevent the wood from sweating or swelling while stored.

Introducing dumpy bags

This type of bagged kiln dried logs is often referred to as a 'dumpy bag'. Kiln dried logs in dumpy bags are also a unit of measurement. For example, you could order 4 dumpy bags of kiln dried logs from your local supplier, and you'd get roughly the same amount of wood in each bag. Dumpy bags are great for repurposing too. You could take them back to your log store and get them refilled each time, saving on new bags, or repurpose them for use in building and construction, or even for holding your recycling.

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Log storage outdoor in bags

Storing kiln dried logs outside in bags is ideal for people who lack outdoor space and kiln dried logs in dumpy bags are a great option. However, even with your protective dumpy bag, you need to take a few extra steps to ensure your log supply stays dry and ready to use all year round.

Where will you store the bags of logs?

First, look at where you want to store the bagged logs. Are you considering storing logs outside on a patio, gravel, or grass? Are your bags next to a shed or outbuilding? Does the area where you want to store them regularly have puddles or is it prone to holding water?

Consider buying some wooden pallets and laying those down before storing logs outside in bags. The pallets lift the bags off the ground and stop puddles from forming around the base, preventing water from getting into the bags and ruining the wood. You could also get some old bricks and create small feet or chocks to rest the bags on, just make sure they stay put and properly support the bags.

Protecting the bags

Second, you need to make sure your logs are protected from rain, damp, and frost. Most bagged kiln dried logs in dumpy bags do not have a top cover, so you need to add something to keep the wet from getting into the wood supply. If you're able to store your logs against a wall, fence, or building, you could create a tarpaulin roof that stretches across and anchors to the fixed structure. Make sure it's tied down securely, and the water can run off rather than gather in the middle. For log storage outdoor on pallets, you could also tie tarpaulin or plastic sheeting to the pallet with bungee ropes. Just pull it over the top of the bag and secure it tightly to the pallet to keep your wood store dry and snug.

What are the advantages of storing kiln dried logs outside in bags?

Storing kiln dried logs outside in bags is a perfectly fine way to keep your wood, provided you follow the steps above to keep them protected from the worst of the weather. The advantages of storing logs in bags include (but are not limited to):

• It's easy to tell when you need to reorder and measure how fast you're going through a dumpy bag.
• No need for a separate woodshed or store - all you need is some protection from the wet floor and a sheet of tarpaulin to keep them dry.
• Bags can be easily moved around, which is ideal if you decide to change up how they're stored or bring them closer to the house for easy transport to a log basket or bucket. This ease of movement also makes them easier to handle when receiving a delivery.
• Bags can also be repurposed or refilled with logs to save on new materials and bags each time.
• It's a great solution for people who lack outdoor space for a permanent log store structure.
• It's suitable for people who may own a fireplace, wood burner or fire pit for the first time and want to see how much use they get before committing to a bigger log store.
• Secure, tough-wearing dumpy bags are great for storing logs outside with minimal damage, and breathable woven fabric keeps logs dry and free of moisture. and
• Bulk buying savings are available when you buy logs in bulk, such as buying Cozilogs dual bulk bags (which weigh 415kg to 450kg).

Can you store logs in a plastic shed?

Absolutely, yes! We are often asked “can you store logs in a plastic shed?” or “can I store logs in a shed” and we can wholeheartedly say that this is generally a better and certainly drier environment than most outdoor settings would be. In general, if you have a shed with space, use it for the storage of kiln dried logs, this principle also applies to wooden and metal sheds.

Storing logs in a garage

Storing logs in a garage helps to keep them dry and ready for use. It is important though to ensure there is good ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Placing logs off the ground on a pallet helps to maintain air circulation and reduce the risk of the logs rotting. Always remember to keep your logs away from direct heat sources and to ensure the storage area is safe and free from pests.

Always buy kiln dried logs from a reputable dealer

No matter what option you choose for storage for logs outside, always select kiln dried logs from a reputable supplier to guarantee a safe, clean burn that generates that lovely warm and cosy feeling you get from a fire. Cozilogs offers several options for logs, including:

• Bagged kiln dried logs – 215kg to 450kg
• Nets of kiln dried logs – 20kg to 410kg and
• Crates of logs – 520kg to 690kg

Whether you use your fire for sleepy Sundays or as your regular source of heating and cooking, store your logs in dry and secure conditions for the best burn possible, thanks to Cozilogs.