How To Stack Firewood Outdoors

Wood is an excellent, environmentally friendly source of fuel for heating or cooking outdoors. However, to get the best performance from your wood, it's important to prepare and stack it correctly. Here are some essential aspects of stacking firewood outdoors.

Choose the Right Location

The ideal location for your firewood stack is a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid placing it near buildings or other structures, as this can create a fire hazard. The stack should also be protected from the elements, so choose a spot that's not exposed to direct sunlight or heavy rain.

Prepare the Ground

Before you start stacking your firewood, it's important to clear the ground and level out the area. This will ensure that your stack is stable and won't collapse. You can also place a layer of gravel or crushed stone beneath the stack to help with drainage.

Stack the Wood Properly

The most common way to stack firewood is using the "cordwood" method. This involves stacking the logs in straight rows, with each row perpendicular to the one below it. Leave a small gap between each log to allow for ventilation. Stack the logs as high as you can, but be careful not to make the stack too tall or it will become unstable.

Cover the Stack

Once you have stacked your firewood, it's important to cover it to protect it from the elements. You can use a tarp, a piece of plywood, or even a stack of old tires. Make sure the cover is waterproof and that it extends beyond the edges of the stack to prevent water from seeping in.

Season the Wood

Freshly cut wood is not suitable for burning. It contains too much moisture, which can make it difficult to light and produce a lot of smoke. To season firewood, simply let it sit outdoors in a sunny, well-ventilated area for several months. The wood will gradually lose moisture and become more efficient for burning.

Maintain the Stack

Once your firewood is seasoned and stacked, it's important to maintain it properly. This means keeping the stack covered and free of debris. You may also need to restack the wood occasionally to prevent it from becoming unstable.