How to Store Your Firewood to Keep It at Its Best

You've invested in quality kiln-dried firewood from NW Logs – now it's important to store it properly to maintain that low moisture content and ensure it burns efficiently when you need it. Proper storage is straightforward, but a few mistakes can undo all the benefits of kiln-dried wood.

Why Storage Matters

Even kiln-dried firewood with 10-15% moisture content can reabsorb moisture if stored incorrectly. In North Wales, with our high rainfall and humid conditions, this is a real risk. Wood left exposed to the elements can return to 25-30% moisture content within weeks, negating all the benefits of kiln-drying.

Good storage protects your investment and ensures your firewood performs as it should when you light your stove.

The Golden Rules of Firewood Storage

1. Keep It Off the Ground

Wood in direct contact with the ground will absorb moisture through capillary action. Even if the ground appears dry, there's always some moisture present.

Solutions:

• Use a log store with a raised base
• Place pallets underneath your wood stack
• Build a simple frame with timber bearers
• Use concrete blocks as a base

Aim for at least 10cm (4 inches) of clearance between the ground and the bottom layer of logs.

2. Provide a Roof But Not Walls

Your firewood needs protection from rain and snow, but it also needs airflow to prevent moisture buildup. A roof with open sides is ideal.

Best options:

• Purpose-built log stores with a sloping roof
• A simple lean-to structure against a wall or fence
• Tarpaulin secured over the top (but not the sides)

Avoid:

• Fully enclosed sheds without ventilation
• Plastic sheeting wrapped around the entire stack
• Storage in garages or outbuildings without airflow

3. Allow Air Circulation

Air needs to move around and through your wood stack. This prevents condensation and allows any absorbed moisture to evaporate.

Tips for good airflow:

• Stack wood loosely rather than tightly packed
• Leave a small gap between logs
• Don't stack against solid walls – leave a gap of at least 10cm
• Keep the sides of your log store open or slatted
• Don't overfill your storage area

4. Face the Right Direction

If possible, position your log store so the open side faces away from prevailing winds and rain. In North Wales, this typically means facing south or east, as our prevailing winds come from the southwest.

This reduces the amount of rain driven into your log store whilst still maintaining airflow.

5. Create a Small Indoor Store

Keep a few days' worth of firewood inside your home, away from your main storage. This serves two purposes:

• Wood acclimatises to room temperature, making it easier to light
• You don't need to go outside in bad weather every time you need logs

A basket, log holder, or small decorative log store near (but not too close to) your wood burner is ideal.

Stacking Techniques

The Traditional Criss-Cross Method:

1. Lay logs parallel, leaving small gaps between them
2. Add the next layer perpendicular to the first
3. Continue alternating directions
4. This creates excellent airflow but uses more space

The Wall Stack Method:

1. Stack logs in rows, all facing the same direction
2. Stagger each layer slightly like bricks
3. More compact but slightly less airflow
4. Good for log stores with restricted space

End Supports: If stacking without side supports, create stable ends by placing logs perpendicular to the main stack at each end, like bookends.

Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid

Storing in Plastic Bags: The bags from your firewood delivery are for transport only. Remove the wood from plastic bags as soon as possible – they trap moisture and prevent airflow.

Covered on All Sides: Whilst it might seem logical to protect your wood completely, covering all sides creates condensation and prevents air circulation.

Too Close to the House: Firewood stacks can harbour insects. Keep your main storage at least 1-2 metres from your house walls.

Against Damp Walls: Stacking against a north-facing or damp wall will transfer moisture to your wood.

In Wet Grass: Even if raised, storing in long, wet grass increases local humidity around your wood.

How Long Can You Store Kiln-Dried Wood?

When stored correctly, kiln-dried firewood from NW Logs will maintain its quality for many months – even years. The key is following the storage principles above.

Well-stored wood in a proper log store should remain below 20% moisture content indefinitely. Some customers prefer to buy in bulk during summer and store for the following winter – this works perfectly well if storage conditions are right.

Log Store Options

Shop-Bought Log Stores: Available from garden centres and DIY stores, these typically cost £50-£300 depending on size. Look for ones with:

• Raised floors
• Slatted sides for airflow
• A roof with good overhang
• Treated timber for longevity

DIY Log Stores: Building your own is straightforward and can be tailored to your exact space. Basic materials needed:

• Treated timber posts for the frame
• Roof timber and felt or corrugated sheets
• Pallets or timber for the base
• Basic tools and fixings

Temporary Solutions: If you need something quickly:

• Pallets topped with a secured tarpaulin
• Builders' bulk bags (the breathable type) with drainage holes
• Raised platform with a simple cover

Quick Storage Checklist

Before your NW Logs delivery arrives, ensure you have:

• ✓ A raised, level base off the ground
• ✓ A waterproof roof or cover
• ✓ Open sides for airflow
• ✓ Space away from exterior walls
• ✓ Protection from prevailing winds
• ✓ Easy access for removing logs
• ✓ An indoor log holder for immediate use

What If You Don't Have Perfect Storage?

If you can't create ideal storage conditions immediately, prioritise these in order:

1. Keep it off the ground (most important)
2. Provide top cover from rain
3. Ensure some airflow

Even imperfect storage is better than leaving wood completely exposed. And remember – you're starting with kiln-dried wood at 10-15% moisture, which gives you a significant buffer compared to seasoned wood that might already be at 20-25%.

Ready for Your Delivery?

At NW Logs, we deliver across the UK and can advise on storage solutions for your specific situation. Our kiln-dried firewood arrives ready to burn and ready to store – all you need is a suitable spot prepared.

Order your premium kiln-dried firewood today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from quality wood, properly stored.