How to Store Firewood Outdoors

Identify an outdoor storage location that receives a sufficient amount of air circulation. Avoid completely covering firewood as it will lock in moisture and cause the wood to rot. Place freshly chopped or green firewood outside in an uncovered location to ensure the wood has ample time to dry out.

Transfer your firewood to a covered location such as a storage shed or barn once it has had adequate time to dry. Stack your firewood in neat rows to minimize the amount of required space. Leave a few inches to separate each firewood stack to guarantee proper air circulation.

Utilize a tarp or plastic sheet to protect your firewood if you do not have access to a covered outdoor structure. Prevent your firewood from making direct contact with the ground as this can cause moisture to seep in. Place the tarp or plastic sheet onto the ground to act as a moisture barrier.

Stack your firewood on top of the plastic sheet or tarp. Avoid creating stacks that have a height of more than 4 feet. Place a second piece of plastic over the firewood while leaving the sides of the stacks exposed. Lower large rocks onto the top of the stack to secure the tarps in place.