Many households have turned to stocking firewood as a sustainable and cost-effective way to heat their homes, especially in rural areas where wood-burning stoves and fireplaces remain common. However, storing firewood is not as straightforward as simply piling logs in the garage or backyard. A recent incident involving a batch of firewood deemed unusable after months in storage has sparked concern—and confusion—among many wood-burning homeowners. The culprit? Poor storage practices and a lack of key information that few people ever explain.
The reality is that seasoned, usable firewood requires specific conditions to maintain its integrity and burn quality. When improperly stored, wood can become waterlogged, mold-infested, or infested with pests—turning the fuel source into a hazard rather than a help. Firewood that is not well-seasoned or affected by the environment will not only fail to produce clean heat but may also damage chimneys and release harmful fumes indoors.
Key facts about proper firewood storage
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ideal Moisture Content | Below 20% |
| Minimum Seasoning Duration | 6-12 months (depending on wood type) |
| Best Storage Placement | Elevated and covered outdoor area |
| Common Storage Mistake | Storing firewood in airtight or moist environments |
| Risks of Improper Storage | Mold, rotting, pests, high smoke production |
| Recommended Materials for Covers | Breathable tarps or open-sided sheds |
Why storing firewood wrong ruins months of preparation
One critical mistake made by many is the assumption that simply keeping the logs dry is enough. But firewood, especially green wood that hasn’t been pre-seasoned, releases internal moisture over time. If the storage method doesn’t allow for adequate airflow, the moisture gets trapped, leading to decay or even mold growth. Sealing wood inside plastic bins or storing it in humid basements compounds the problem.
Experts emphasize that **seasoning** isn’t optional—it’s essential. Seasoning is the natural drying process where moisture content falls below 20%, making the wood safe and efficient to burn. Failing to wait long enough before using the firewood can result in a smoky, inefficient fire that contributes to creosote buildup and health problems due to indoor air quality deterioration.
“Most people think storing wood under a tarp is good enough, but if there’s no ventilation, it traps moisture and essentially composts the wood,”
— Tom Erickson, Certified Chimney Sweep
What causes firewood to become unusable
Several environmental factors can degrade the quality of stored firewood. Rain, snow, humidity, and pests can all play a role. The most common scenarios where firewood becomes unusable include:
- Stacking wood directly on the ground, drawing moisture from the soil
- Covering with plastic tarps without side ventilation
- Storing under leaky ceilings or in damp basements
- Failing to rotate older logs, allowing mold to spread unseen
Another overlooked factor is the **type of wood being stored**. Softwoods like pine season faster but absorb more moisture and are more likely to deteriorate if not properly protected. Hardwoods like oak and hickory last longer but must be seasoned much longer before use. A mix of improper drying and unsuitable storage can waste an entire season’s effort.
Best practices for firewood storage
Building an effective firewood system means maintaining the balance between protection and breathability. These guidelines can help ensure your logs remain clean, seasoned, and ready for winter:
- Raise stacks at least six inches off the ground using pallets or racks
- Stack wood in rows no higher than 4 feet for safety and air circulation
- Cover only the top of the stacks to protect against rain while allowing sides to breathe
- Place in a location with maximum sun exposure and minimal moisture
- Regularly inspect for mold and signs of pest activity
“A good stack is strategic—not just protective, but positioned to wick away moisture and optimize sunlight,”
— Jessica Landers, Environmental Home Consultant
Biggest mistakes people make with firewood
| What People Do | Why It’s a Mistake |
|---|---|
| Keep wood in the garage | Lack of airflow, attracts pests, promotes mold |
| Seal wood in plastic wrap or bins | Traps moisture, causes rot |
| Stack directly on soil | Absorbs ground moisture, accelerates decomposition |
| Leave stacks uncovered | Exposes wood to the elements, increases moisture |
How to recover firewood already affected
If your firewood has been poorly stored and you suspect it’s become unusable, not all is lost. While some wood may need to be discarded, you can salvage part of your stock by:
- Removing visibly moldy or decomposed logs entirely
- Restacking usable pieces in a well-ventilated area with proper elevation
- Letting the stack dry again for an additional 4-6 weeks if possible
- Splitting larger pieces to speed up moisture release
If in doubt, test the **moisture content** using a firewood moisture meter device. Any readings above 20% indicate the wood is not yet ready for burning.
The winners and losers of firewood storage
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Users with outdoor, covered, ventilated stacks | People storing indoors in sealed containers or garages |
| Homes using racks and pallets for elevation | Users stacking directly on ground or concrete |
| Early planners who season wood 12 months ahead | Late-season buyers using unseasoned firewood |
Why it matters more this winter
With energy prices continuing to rise and colder winters becoming more frequent in many regions, reliable and well-stored firewood offers an essential heating alternative. For individuals living in rural settings or off-grid homes, it’s often the primary heat source. Failing to plan correctly or storing firewood poorly can mean the difference between warm nights and hazardous conditions indoors.
Moreover, burning poorly seasoned or contaminated firewood increases indoor pollutants and poses health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory issues. With households relying more on **self-sourced fuels**, proper storage becomes part of basic home safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should firewood season before use?
Most hardwoods require at least 6–12 months of seasoning. Softer woods may be ready in as few as 6 months, but measurement of moisture content is the best way to know.
Can I store firewood indoors?
Small amounts of firewood can be stored indoors temporarily, but large quantities should remain outside in ventilated, elevated storage to avoid mold and pest issues.
What should I put under firewood stacks?
Use wooden pallets, treated lumber, or metal firewood racks to lift the firewood at least 6 inches off the ground, preventing ground moisture absorption.
Is it okay to stack firewood against the house?
Although convenient, stacking wood against your home can attract termites and pests. It is better to keep stacks at least 3 feet away from any structure.
How do I know if my firewood is too wet?
You can check with a moisture meter. If your firewood has more than 20% moisture, it is too wet and should season longer before use.
What happens if I burn unseasoned wood?
Burning unseasoned wood produces excess smoke, builds up creosote in chimneys, and can reduce heat output dramatically while increasing pollution indoors.
What’s the best way to cover firewood?
Use a breathable tarp or a firewood shed with open sides. Avoid complete enclosures that prevent airflow. Just covering the top is often ideal.
How far in advance should I prepare firewood for winter?
Prepare and begin seasoning your firewood at least 6–12 months in advance to ensure optimal dryness and performance when winter comes.