Storing Firewood in Colder Months | Logs Direct

A Guide to Storing & Protecting Firewood in Cold Months Content: Cold weather can wreak havoc on wood, increasing the moisture content and making the high-quality kiln-dried logs you’ve bought become wet wood. Not only does this mean that burning this fuel produces more harmful emissions and increased amounts of smoke, but it can also result in the development of mould and fungi which makes it even more unsustainable to burn. As all things experts in firewood and logs at Logs Direct, we’ve put together this guide on proper storage and protection of your wood to make sure you can use it no matter how cold the weather and the impact on your supply.

Outdoor log storage & protection

If you prefer your logs to be stored outdoors, this requires a huge consideration of the methods you use to prevent the impact of the cold weather. For those who have a log store that you might have built yourself or bought from a DIY shop, a few adjustments can keep your supply even more dry and secure. For example, with the use of pallets or a platform, you can raise a store from the ground to prevent moisture from the ground transferring into the logs. You can also use a tarpaulin or small roof to add more protection, as it allows the store to stay ventilated and prevent moisture buildup while keeping the logs protected from the elements.

Stacking logs for protection & storage

How you stack your logs can have a huge impact on how dry your logs stay, leading to inefficient burns. Keeping rain from making direct contact with the wood is important, so once you’ve consulted your local weather report for if it will rain, stack the wood with the bark facing the ground. If snow is forecast, stack with the bark facing upwards. That way, the bark can act as a barrier to protect against the moisture. When stacking into a pile, the bottom should start with larger logs or pieces of wood in level rows. This builds a solid base and mitigates the risk of leaning, and allowing for small spaces between the rows to form means that they will be properly ventilated with airflow, preventing mould, fungi, and moisture. Avoid stacking them too high, as building a tower of logs can be hazardous, especially if it’s an uneven pile. As a rule, keep the height to around four feet high or less.

Indoor firewood log storage for protection

If you live in an area of the UK where the weather tends to be more gloomy, wet, and cold than others, bringing your fuel supply indoors can save you the hassle of dealing with the elements, both when it comes to keeping it dry or braving them to restock. There are plenty of ways you can keep it stored, whether it’s a small cove of the living room or a wicker basket that adds a homely look. There are two main considerations when bringing logs indoors: ventilation and safety. Allowing the logs to breathe with spaces between them prevents moisture increasing or any mould or fungi forming. For safety, keeping it out of the way helps to avoid tripping, splinters, and other injuries that can be caused by the logs creating a hazard. This is especially important if there are children in your household. When you’ve invested in quality firewood logs, especially when you’ve bought them from us here at Logs Direct, you want to make sure they’re protected. Order yours today and if you’re not sure which are best for you, just get in touch. We’ll be happy to help.