To properly store and dry firewood, stack it off the ground in a sunny, well-ventilated area, covered on top to protect from rain while allowing airflow.
Proper firewood storage and drying techniques make the difference between a roaring fire and a smoky, inefficient burn. Follow these expert methods to keep your wood dry, pest-free, and ready to heat your home.
Choosing The Right Firewood Storage Location
Where you store firewood impacts drying time, pest control, and safety. Follow these guidelines for optimal placement:
Outdoor Storage Best Practices
- Keep wood piles at least 30 feet from your home’s foundation
- Choose a sunny, elevated spot with good airflow
- Avoid dense tree cover that traps moisture
- Position stacks perpendicular to prevailing winds
Indoor Storage Considerations
Only kiln-dried wood should come indoors. Green or seasoned wood brings pests inside. For indoor storage:
- Use a ventilated wood rack near your indoor wood heater
- Keep at least 3 feet from heat sources
- Store only 1-2 week’s supply indoors at a time
Proper Firewood Stacking Techniques
How you stack wood determines drying speed and protection:
| Stacking Method | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single row | Maximum airflow | Initial drying |
| Holzhausen (round stack) | Self-supporting | Long-term storage |
| Criss-cross ends | Stability | High wind areas |
Essential Stacking Tips
- Always use a base layer of pallets or 2x4s
- Leave 1-2 inch gaps between logs
- Alternate log directions every few layers
- Keep stacks under 4 feet tall for stability
Firewood Covering And Protection
Proper covering balances moisture protection with airflow:
Top Covering Only
Use metal roofing, plywood, or weather-resistant covers to protect just the top 12 inches of your stack. Never wrap entire stacks in plastic.
Seasonal Protection
- Summer: Cover only during heavy rains
- Fall: Install permanent top cover
- Winter: Brush snow off stacks weekly
- Spring: Remove covers for maximum drying
Drying Times By Wood Type
According to US Forest Service research, drying times vary significantly:
- Softwoods (pine, fir): 6-12 months drying time
- Medium-density (maple, cherry): 12-18 months
- Hardwoods (oak, hickory): 18-24 months
Moisture Content Monitoring
Use these methods to check firewood readiness:
Simple Field Tests
- Bark test: Loose, peeling bark indicates dryness
- Sound test: Dry wood makes a clear “clink” when struck
- Weight test: Dry wood weighs 30-50% less than green
Using A Moisture Meter
For precise measurements:
- Split a log and test the freshly exposed surface
- Measure multiple pieces from different stack locations
- Target below 20% moisture for optimal burning
Pest Prevention Strategies
Keep your firewood pest-free with these methods:
- Rotate stock – use oldest wood first
- Inspect each piece before bringing indoors
- Consider pest-resistant storage solutions
- Never treat wood with chemical pesticides
The University of Kentucky Entomology Department recommends storing only what you’ll use in 1-2 weeks indoors to prevent pest migration.
Special Considerations For Heating Systems
Different heating equipment has unique requirements:
Wood Stoves
Requires fully seasoned wood (under 20% moisture) to prevent creosote buildup.
Outdoor Boilers
Can tolerate slightly higher moisture content (up to 25%).
Fireplaces
Need extra-dry wood (under 15%) for clean burning and good draft.
