Nothing beats an open fire on a chilly winter evening! There’s something comforting about cosying up by a crackling fireplace, with the mesmerising dance of flames and the soft warmth it exudes. If you’re a homeowner lucky enough to have a fireplace or you like to spend your evenings around an outdoor fire pit, you’re already familiar with the charm and practicality of using firewood for heating. But have you ever wondered how to store firewood at home effectively? Here we will look at the art of firewood storage, exploring techniques that not only ensure a steady supply of dry, ready-to-burn logs but also add an aesthetically pleasing touch to your outdoor space.
Choosing the Right Location
Look for a spot around your property that is well-ventilated, dry, and shielded from the elements but still receives some sunlight. Avoid placing your woodpile directly against a wall or a building, as this can obstruct airflow and create a breeding ground for pests. Choosing the right location to store firewood is about finding a balance between ventilation, protection, safety, and convenience – a well-ventilated garden shed, or a covered stack under a carport might be great options.
The Ideal Firewood Rack
Investing in a high-quality firewood rack is a game-changer. Available from hardware stores, these racks are designed to elevate your firewood off the ground, allowing air to circulate underneath and prevent moisture buildup. They come in various sizes and materials, such as metal, wood, or plastic. Choose one that suits your aesthetic preferences and space constraints.
Stack with Care
Stacking firewood might seem straightforward, but there’s a method to it. Start by placing a base layer of larger, sturdy logs parallel to the ground. This helps create a stable foundation. Stack subsequent layers perpendicular to the base, alternating the direction with each layer. This crosshatch pattern promotes airflow, allowing the wood to dry uniformly.
Mindful Spacing
Leaving some space between the logs is crucial. This allows air to move freely between the pieces, reducing the chance of mould and mildew growth. Proper spacing also helps sunlight reach the wood and speeds up the drying process.
Seasoning Time
Seasoning refers to the process of allowing the firewood to dry out before burning. Freshly cut wood can contain up to 50% moisture, which leads to inefficient burning, excessive smoke, and creosote buildup in your chimney. Ideally, wood should be seasoned for at least six months to a year, depending on the type. Hardwoods like oak and maple take longer to season than softwoods like pine. For high-quality, seasoned firewood for sale, Bittern Garden Supplies is here to help. Our red gum, box wood, and mountain ash varieties ensure a long and clean burn!
Pest Prevention
To prevent unwanted critters from making your firewood stack their home, keep the area around the pile clear and avoid stacking the wood directly on the ground. Regularly inspect the wood for signs of infestations and take necessary measures if you spot any pests.
Safety First
Remember that safety is paramount when storing firewood. Storing firewood too close to your home can pose a dangerous fire hazard, especially if sparks or embers escape from your fireplace or fire pit. Keep the woodpile a safe distance away from your home, typically at least 20 feet.
Aesthetics and Landscaping
Turning firewood storage into an artful addition to your outdoor space is a creative idea. Incorporate your firewood storage into your landscaping by building a stylish shed or using decorative screens. This not only adds a touch of charm to your property but also keeps your firewood neatly organised and ready to go for those cold evenings.
By following these tips, you’ll master firewood storage, and ensure you have a steady supply of dry, seasoned logs for cosy evenings by the fire!
Buy Firewood – Mornington Peninsula and Surrounds
Harvesting our own firewood means we can supply it to you at the most competitive prices, so get in touch with us today to organise a delivery. As the trusted local supplier of garden products, landscaping materials and firewood to Mornington Peninsula customers, we offer a full range of landscaping services, including earthmoving, site cuts, drainage, and driveway construction. Whether you need sand and soil or Bobcat hire, Hastings and surrounding suburbs rely on Bittern Garden Supplies every time. Enquire online now or call 5983 9779.
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