A guide to storing firewood

Whilst matters such as ideal environment, stacking methods or the indoor vs outdoor debate may seem trivial, different wood storage options could mean the difference between a cost effective, efficient and low emissions burn and a smoky, wasteful, costly fire that doesn't heat your space efficiently.

If you don’t store wood correctly you risk causing moisture retention, which not only results in excess smoke and a less efficient burn, but also fungus growth, mould, premature decay, and even potentially attracting unwelcome insects or rodents.

Here are some important dos and don’ts when storing firewood…

Why do I need to stack my firewood?

Properly stacking firewood is the only way to ensure airflow and to keep your logs dry. Whilst this is important for all wood, it’s even more crucial for logs you’ve cut yourself - aka green wood. As a rough rule of thumb, green wood takes between 6 and 18 months to become fully seasoned and ready to burn depending on the species. Burning before it’s fully seasoned will result in more smoke and a far less efficient burn.

Invest in a moisture meter to check the moisture every few weeks and remember that split logs dry better than full rounds.

Using a pallet or rack to keep the wood elevated to ensure airflow is a sensible option whether you prefer to keep your wood indoors or outdoors.

How should I store my firewood outside?

A dedicated rack or wood store is a popular way to store wood outside as it ensures logs are elevated from damp ground and allows for airflow.

Most come with rooftops to protect from the elements, but the front and/or sides should be open to allow air to circulate.

Keeping firewood aired through as much as possible is vital to achieving optimum moisture content - green wood must be allowed continue to dry and seasoned wood fares better when able to breathe.

Indicators of the moisture content being at the right level include bark starting to lift a little and cracking at the ends of the logs - your moisture meter can confirm this. Be sure to aim for a moisture content below 20%.

Can I store my firewood inside?

Storing wood indoors and without proper airflow can hamper its ability to dry sufficiently and is not a great idea, so instead, opt for a smaller basket or metal tub to transport logs in from the outside store regularly and be sure to keep it away from the stove in case of any errant sparks.

Stacking logs indoors safely

When stacking your firewood inside, avoid straight, vertical rows and instead stack as though you’re building a brick wall. This will ensure the stack is more stable – an important consideration if you have curious or active kids or pets.

Unless you have a model that incorporates a log box specifically designed to isolate the heat, the key rule for indoor stacking is to make sure your wood is at a safe distance (at least half a metre) from the wood burner. Although it looks pretty piled up next to the stove it is incredibly dangerous as the heat transfer from the stove could easily set the logs alight.