Storing Wood Outside: The Best and Worst Practices to Know

Improper wood storage can lead to damp, soggy logs, infestations, and even potential safety hazards. However, it is possible to keep wood dry, clean, and ready to use all year round. 

Knowing the rules for storing wood outside and inside the home is key to saving time, money, and stress. Here, we discuss the best and worst practices for storing wood outside so you won’t have to deal with ruined firewood or wasted effort again. 

Storing wood outside: What to know

Picking a location 

Choosing the right spot for your woodpile is the first step to good storage. You need to choose a place that’s dry and well-ventilated, as you want to help prevent moisture build-up and mould from growing. 

To prevent dampness, choose areas that are likely to have standing water or are mostly shaded throughout the day. 

It’s also important to pick a location for storing wood outside that isn’t too close to the home. This will reduce the chance of a fire hazard and help prevent pests from migrating indoors. 

Keep it elevated 

If you place your wood directly on the ground, it will likely absorb moisture, resulting in damp logs that are hard to light and more likely to rot. 

Use pallets, concrete blocks, or treated timber to elevate the wood off the ground. Raising your stack off the ground helps with air circulation beneath the pile, which aids the drying process. It also helps keep the wood in the best condition for burning. 

Stacking the wood 

Knowing how to stack wood can make a big difference in keeping it dry and ensuring its usability. Stack logs loosely with gaps between them to help with airflow, which is important for drying the wood and preventing mould from growing. 

Don’t stack the wood too high, either. Ensure your pile is stable and safe. 

It’s best practice to put new logs at the bottom of the pile, even though it makes it a little tricky when stacking. This gives them plenty of time to dry out and be ready for burning once they get to the top.

Protect from moisture 

While it’s important to protect your wood from rain and snow, completely covering it can be detrimental. 

It’s best to cover the top of the pile with a slanted roof and leave the sides open to help with air circulation. 

Preventing pests

Woodpiles can be a big draw for insects and rodents. However, using pesticides to keep them away is a health hazard when the wood is burnt. It’s best to keep wood off the ground and regularly check the wood. 

Seasoning the wood 

This simply means drying the wood to reduce how much moisture is in it. The best practice is to season for at least six months. Well-seasoned wood is darker, feels lighter, and will sound hollow when tapped. 

Unseasoned wood can end in poor combustion, excess smoke and creosote buildup in your chimney. 

Consider the environment 

Don’t use chemically treated firewood, as it could release toxic fumes when burned. Opt for sustainably sourced wood. When getting rid of old or unused wood, do so responsibly. Check for local recycling or composting options. 

Buy your firewood from Whitakers. These kiln-dried logs are stored in nets for easy storage and are ready to burn. 

Storing firewood inside: What to know 

Limit how much you bring in 

Only bring in the amount of wood that is needed to last two days, storing anymore in the home is a potential fire risk. 

Store it raised

Like storing outside, it’s best to store your wood on a raised surface or a wood rack - baskets can also work well. This helps to keep it away from dust, moisture and pests. Don’t place firewood directly on carpets or hardwood floors as you may stain or damage the flooring. 

Never store your firewood in plastic containers or bags, as this will trap moisture and create a humid environment, which can lead to mould. 

Don’t store near woodburner 

Of course, you want your firewood in a handy location near your burner, but it’s important for safety to leave a distance of at least three feet to reduce the chance of fire hazards. 

Inspect it 

Before you bring it into your home, check for signs of mould or decay and signs of pests. 

Follow manufacturer instructions 

Some log burners have an integrated log store, both for ease and aesthetic reasons. In these instances, make sure that you read the manufacturer's instructions for storing firewood to help reduce the risk of fire. 

Properly storing wood outside and inside might seem like a straightforward task, but with a few thoughtful considerations, you can ensure that your firewood is clean, clear, dry and ready to burn. From the right location to maintaining your pile and preventing pests, these simple practices will keep your wood ready to use whenever you need it. 

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