Introduction
Storing firewood in a shed is a great way to keep it dry, organized, and ready to use. However, improper storage can lead to mold, pests, or damp wood that won’t burn well. Learning how to store firewood in a shed properly ensures that your wood stays seasoned and usable all year long. Many shed owners stack wood directly on the floor, only to find it wet and full of insects—this guide will show you the right way to store it.
Why Proper Firewood Storage Matters for Your Shed
Correct firewood storage keeps your wood dry and pest-free while preventing rot and mold inside your shed. Storing wood properly also helps it season faster, so it burns more efficiently. A well-stacked woodpile can save space, protect your shed structure, and make it easier to access firewood whenever you need it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Firewood in a Shed
1. Prepare the Shed for Firewood
Before stacking wood, clean the shed and check for leaks or gaps that could let in moisture or pests. A dry, well-ventilated shed is best for firewood storage.
2. Create a Raised Base
Never store firewood directly on the shed floor. Use pallets, concrete blocks, or a wooden rack to keep the wood at least 10–15 cm off the ground. This prevents moisture absorption and improves airflow.
3. Stack Firewood Loosely
Stack wood in a crisscross or alternating pattern to allow air to circulate between the logs. Avoid stacking it tightly against walls to prevent mold growth.
4. Keep the Stack Away from Shed Walls
Leave a 10–15 cm gap between the woodpile and the shed walls. This prevents trapped moisture and reduces the chance of pests moving into the shed structure.
5. Store the Wood in Sections
Separate seasoned wood (ready to burn) from green wood (still drying) so you can easily access dry logs first.
6. Cover the Top, Not the Sides
If your shed has an open side, use a cover or tarp on top of the woodpile but leave the sides open for airflow. Fully covering the stack can trap moisture.
7. Rotate Your Wood Supply
Always use the oldest wood first to prevent it from sitting too long and becoming unusable.
8. Maintain Proper Ventilation
Ensure your shed has vents or windows for airflow. Good ventilation helps wood dry faster and prevents mold.
9. Inspect Regularly for Pests and Mold
Check your firewood for signs of termites, ants, or fungus. Remove any affected pieces right away to prevent infestations.
10. Keep Kindling Separate
Store smaller sticks or kindling in a bin or box for easy access when lighting fires.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake 1: Storing wood directly on the floor.
Solution: Always keep firewood raised off the ground for better airflow. - Mistake 2: Stacking wood too tightly.
Solution: Allow gaps between logs so air can circulate. - Mistake 3: Covering the entire woodpile with a tarp.
Solution: Cover only the top so moisture doesn’t get trapped. - Mistake 4: Placing wood against the shed walls.
Solution: Leave space between the stack and the wall to prevent rot and pests. - Mistake 5: Mixing green and seasoned wood.
Solution: Keep dry wood separate to avoid confusion and moisture transfer.
Extra Shed Tips & Hacks
- Use stackable firewood racks to keep piles organized and stable.
- Install a small fan or vent to improve airflow in damp climates.
- Keep insect-repelling herbs or cedar chips near the stack to deter pests naturally.
Check out our guide on how to ventilate a shed properly to make sure your firewood stays dry and ready to use.
Conclusion
Storing firewood in a shed the right way keeps it dry, pest-free, and easy to access. By raising it off the ground, allowing for airflow, and rotating your supply, you’ll always have dry logs ready for the fire.
Bookmark this guide to make your shed firewood storage simple and efficient!