How to Build an Outdoor Firewood Shelter

Firewood must be stacked properly to allow air circulation throughout so that the moisture in the wood will evaporate, leaving the firewood dry and easier to light. When dried properly, wood burns hotter and produces less creosote and smoke, which is necessary for those who use firewood for heating their homes. Common methods for storing firewood are racks, sheds or cabinets. A simple method for proper storage is to build a U-shaped rack.

2 boards, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 8- to 12-feet long
3-inch wood screws
Drill
2 boards, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 16-inches long
2 boards, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 4-feet long
4 boards, 2-inch-by-2-inch and 16-inches long
2 boards, 2-inch-by-2-inch and 5-feet long
Tarp

Instructions

- 1
  Construct the base of the rack by using two boards, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 8- to 12-feet long. Place the 2-inch edge of the board on a flat surface. Using wood screws attach each end to a board, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 16-inches long, forming a rectangle.
- 2
  Build the supporting end pieces by screwing two boards, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 4-feet tall, together with cross boards, 2-inch-by-4-inch and 16-inches long, at each end.
- 3
  Attach the end supports to the base of the rack at each end. Screw the boards together using enough rust-proof screws to hold the end pieces sturdy.
- 4
  Screw four pieces of wood, 2-inch-by-2-inch and 16-inches long, to the rack at each corner, attaching the braces to the base and the support edges at an angle. This will ensure that the rack is secure and sturdy.
- 5
  Place two pieces of wood, 2-inch-by-2-inch and 5-feet long, to the back of the rack at a diagonal. Screw into the base and the support ends at a diagonal. This adds stability to the rack.
- 6
  Place the rack at least 25 feet away from the house and cover stacked wood with a tarp. Build two racks to store a full cord of wood.

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Fireplaces