3 Easy Tips for How to Store Firewood Outdoors
The warmer months are coming and you might be considering how to store your leftover firewood outdoors and the best way to do it.
In this article, we will go over the best ways to store firewood, from where it should be stored, to why it needs to be covered, and how to properly season harvested wood. Follow these tips and you’ll be well-prepared for seasons to come!
1. Where to Store your Firewood
Many individuals prefer to pile and store the firewood inside the house, next to the fireplace. However, this is not the suggested location due to the potential pests that could come along with the wood. If you don’t want spiders, mice, ants, or termites in your home, it is best to keep the firewood outdoors. Additionally, in the house, without proper airflow, the wood may not properly cure.
To ensure your firewood is stored safely and efficiently, pick a spot that is dry and well-ventilated. Make sure the firewood is at least 20 feet away from the nearest doorway to your house to reduce the risk of pests entering. Additionally, if you’re placing the wood close to a structure, leave a few inches of space between the structure and the stack to allow air to pass behind the heap.
2. How Long to Season your Firewood
Many people do not realize that freshly cut wood should not be used in a fireplace. It’s best to wait until the wood is aged, before burning it. This process is also known as “seasoning” or “curing” the wood. Burning freshly cut wood can cause creosote buildup in the chimney and create an unsafe amount of smoke in your home.
To ensure your wood is properly dried, it is recommended to let it season for a minimum of six months. This will help to reduce the moisture content and improve the overall performance of your fire.
3. The Best Way to Stack your Firewood
For the best results, you should stack firewood in rows no higher than four feet. For wood that isn’t fully seasoned yet, stack it bark-side down to allow moisture to evaporate more easily. Once the wood has aged, you can then stack it bark-side up to protect it from rain and snow.
If you’re using a firewood rack, stack the logs facing front and back until you’ve reached an even four feet in height. Avoid tossing logs into an unorganized pile, as this will prevent proper ventilation and the wood will rot instead of dry.
To keep your firewood dry and ready to use, consider investing in a firewood cover. If you have already seasoned your firewood, a full-sized cover is an ideal way to keep it safe until it’s time to bring it inside.
Get Stacking with AES!
At AES Hearth & Patio, we carry a wide array of covers and accessories, firewood racks, and top brands. Come in and shop at our showrooms in Newville or Camp Hill, PA or make an appointment online—we are here to help!
