Having a supply of dry firewood is essential during the winter, so there is a need for proper firewood storage. Wet or damp wood doesn’t burn well, creates excess smoke, and can even cause a buildup of creosote in your chimney, leading to potential safety risks.
One of the first things to do is having a good supply of dry firewood in the first place, as it is very difficult to season wood for the winter. Get kiln dried or naturally seasoned firewood at good prices here at Timber Ridge Firewood. We have bulk firewood and commercial wood products, and we also deliver to your home.
Here’s a complete guide to keeping your firewood dry and well-prepared for those chilly winter days and nights.
Stack Wood Correctly
Aside from having wood properly split and dried, you have to stack them properly so it stays dry and moisture will not build up inside. A proper wood stack allows air to circulate, removing water. Often, you have to hand stack firewood to achieve this.
Lay down a ground barrier, like a tarp, to keep moisture from the ground from seeping into the wood. A wooden pallet also works well, as it lifts the wood off the ground and improves airflow underneath.
Stack the wood in a single row with gaps between each log. This allows air to circulate, drying out any residual moisture. A “crisscross” stacking pattern, with logs laid in alternating directions, also encourages airflow and stability. And remember, stack your wood so the split sides face out—these dry out faster than bark-covered sides.
Cover only the top
When you have some sort of a chopped wood storage and will cover the top with a tarp, make sure to leave the sides open. Doing so prevents moisture from getting trapped inside.
Allow the sides to be open for good airflow. The top should prevent rain or snow from getting into the wood. If snow piles up on the tarp, brush it off to prevent any buildup that could press down and trap moisture.
Having a custom-built wood shelter with a roof works better if you ask us.
Store extra wood indoors
As winter approaches, it’s a good idea to keep a small supply of firewood indoors. This way, you always have a batch of dry, ready-to-burn wood available, even on particularly wet or snowy days. Set aside a week’s worth of wood in a dry, ventilated space indoors, like a mudroom or basement.
Just don’t store too much wood inside. That might impede airflow and might also attract bugs.
Use a Wood Shed or Rack
A firewood rack inside a shed is a good place to store firewood. The roof keeps out rain and snow while the open sides and floor allow for airflow. This setup keeps moisture out while letting your wood breathe, preventing mold and rot.
If you burn a lot of wood, investing in a wood shed or rack can make a big difference in keeping it dry. If you’re on a budget, an affordable option is a firewood rack with a cover. These racks are easy to set up and keep wood elevated while providing enough protection from the elements.
Rotate and Use Your Older Wood First
Use the oldest wood first, as it’s more likely to be fully seasoned. When stacking new wood, place it in a separate pile or layer it behind the older wood so you can keep track.
Wood stacked over time may have layers with different moisture levels. Rotating your stock ensures that the driest wood is always used first, saving the fresh wood to continue seasoning.
Whether you have some sort of a fireplace, bonfire, or a campfire wood storage, make sure to burn older wood first.
Prepare for Snow and Rain
Despite frigid nights, rainy days are still inevitable and you should prepare for that. A single rain can easily ruin your firewood stock that you’ve spent months drying.
Weather is unpredictable, so protect your stock. Make sure the tarp or cover is secure, as wind and snow can shift it, exposing your wood to the elements.
Also, it’s important to check the moisture levels of your firewood. Moisture meters are affordable tools that can give you a quick reading on how dry your wood is. Simply insert the prongs into a split section of wood, and the meter will show you the moisture content.
Buy quality firewood from a good supplier
Now you know how to do proper firewood storage and keep your stock dry. If you want your chopped wood storage replenished, head to us at Timber Ridge Firewood. We deliver to your home and will also stack them by hand. Order now!
