Storing Kiln-Dried Firewood for Maximum Longevity
Properly storing kiln-dried firewood is essential to maintain its quality and ensure it burns efficiently. Kiln-dried firewood offers several advantages over air-dried wood, including lower moisture content, faster ignition, and reduced smoke output. However, even kiln-dried wood can deteriorate if not stored correctly. This article outlines practical tips to help you store your kiln-dried firewood effectively, ensuring it remains dry and ready for use whenever needed.
1. Choose the Right Location:
Selecting an appropriate location for storing kiln-dried firewood is crucial. Ideally, choose a spot that is:
- Sheltered: Opt for a covered area such as a shed, garage, or woodshed to protect the firewood from rain, snow, and excessive moisture.
- Well-Ventilated: Good airflow helps prevent mould and mildew growth. Avoid storing firewood in tightly enclosed spaces to allow for proper ventilation.
- Elevated: Keep the firewood off the ground to prevent moisture absorption and discourage pests like termites and ants. Use pallets or racks to elevate the woodpile.
2. Use a Proper Storage Rack or Stack:
Efficient stacking or racking of firewood minimises moisture buildup and promotes airflow.
Follow these tips for stacking firewood:
- Stack firewood in rows, leaving space between each piece to facilitate air circulation.
- Avoid stacking firewood directly against walls or other structures to allow airflow on all sides.
- Build the woodpile in a stable manner to prevent collapse.
- Consider using a firewood rack or constructing a simple rack with sturdy materials like metal or treated wood to keep the wood off the ground and organised.
3. Cover the Firewood:
While kiln-dried firewood has lower moisture content, it can still absorb moisture from the air if left exposed. Covering the firewood helps protect it from rain, snow, and excessive humidity. Here are some covering options:
- Tarps: Use heavy-duty, waterproof tarps to cover the top of the woodpile. Ensure the tarp extends over the sides to shield the firewood from moisture.
- Roofing Materials: If storing firewood outdoors, consider building a roof structure or using corrugated metal roofing to provide overhead protection.
- Ventilation: Ensure the covering allows for adequate airflow to prevent condensation buildup underneath.
4. Rotate the Stock:
To maintain the quality of your firewood supply, practice stock rotation. Use the oldest wood first and replenish the supply with fresh kiln-dried firewood. By rotating the stock, you prevent older wood from deteriorating due to prolonged storage.
5. Monitor Moisture Levels:
Regularly check the moisture content of stored firewood to ensure it remains within the optimal range. Invest in a moisture meter to accurately measure the moisture content. Kiln-dried firewood should ideally have a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning efficiency.
6. Pest Prevention:
Inspect stored firewood regularly for signs of pests such as insects or rodents. To deter pests:
- Elevate the woodpile off the ground.
- Keep the storage area clean and free of debris.
- Seal any cracks or openings in nearby structures to prevent pests from entering.
Proper storage of kiln-dried firewood is essential for maintaining its quality and ensuring it burns efficiently. By choosing the right location, using proper storage racks, covering the firewood, rotating the stock, monitoring moisture levels, and implementing pest prevention measures, you can preserve your firewood supply for extended periods. With these tips, you can enjoy cozy fires throughout the winter months without worrying about the quality of your firewood.
You can check out our full range of Kiln Dried Firewood here
1. Choose the Right Location:
Selecting an appropriate location for storing kiln-dried firewood is crucial. Ideally, choose a spot that is:
- Sheltered: Opt for a covered area such as a shed, garage, or woodshed to protect the firewood from rain, snow, and excessive moisture.
- Well-Ventilated: Good airflow helps prevent mould and mildew growth. Avoid storing firewood in tightly enclosed spaces to allow for proper ventilation.
- Elevated: Keep the firewood off the ground to prevent moisture absorption and discourage pests like termites and ants. Use pallets or racks to elevate the woodpile.
2. Use a Proper Storage Rack or Stack:
Efficient stacking or racking of firewood minimises moisture buildup and promotes airflow.
Follow these tips for stacking firewood:
- Stack firewood in rows, leaving space between each piece to facilitate air circulation.
- Avoid stacking firewood directly against walls or other structures to allow airflow on all sides.
- Build the woodpile in a stable manner to prevent collapse.
- Consider using a firewood rack or constructing a simple rack with sturdy materials like metal or treated wood to keep the wood off the ground and organised.
3. Cover the Firewood:
While kiln-dried firewood has lower moisture content, it can still absorb moisture from the air if left exposed. Covering the firewood helps protect it from rain, snow, and excessive humidity. Here are some covering options:
- Tarps: Use heavy-duty, waterproof tarps to cover the top of the woodpile. Ensure the tarp extends over the sides to shield the firewood from moisture.
- Roofing Materials: If storing firewood outdoors, consider building a roof structure or using corrugated metal roofing to provide overhead protection.
- Ventilation: Ensure the covering allows for adequate airflow to prevent condensation buildup underneath.
4. Rotate the Stock:
To maintain the quality of your firewood supply, practice stock rotation. Use the oldest wood first and replenish the supply with fresh kiln-dried firewood. By rotating the stock, you prevent older wood from deteriorating due to prolonged storage.
5. Monitor Moisture Levels:
Regularly check the moisture content of stored firewood to ensure it remains within the optimal range. Invest in a moisture meter to accurately measure the moisture content. Kiln-dried firewood should ideally have a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning efficiency.
6. Pest Prevention:
Inspect stored firewood regularly for signs of pests such as insects or rodents. To deter pests:
- Elevate the woodpile off the ground.
- Keep the storage area clean and free of debris.
- Seal any cracks or openings in nearby structures to prevent pests from entering.
Proper storage of kiln-dried firewood is essential for maintaining its quality and ensuring it burns efficiently. By choosing the right location, using proper storage racks, covering the firewood, rotating the stock, monitoring moisture levels, and implementing pest prevention measures, you can preserve your firewood supply for extended periods. With these tips, you can enjoy cozy fires throughout the winter months without worrying about the quality of your firewood.
You can check out our full range of Kiln Dried Firewood here
