Seasoning and Storing Firewood
Dry wood burns hotter with less smoke. Here is how to get it dry.
1. Why dry wood matters
Wet wood wastes heat boiling off water, makes more smoke and builds up creosote in the flue. Dry wood burns hotter and cleaner.
2. Split early
Split wood dries much faster than rounds. Split it soon after cutting.
3. Stack for air
- Off the ground, on pallets or rails.
- In single rows with gaps, in the wind and sun.
- Cover the top only, so rain stays off but air flows through the sides.
4. How long
Many hardwoods take a year or more to season. A cheap moisture meter tells you when it's ready. A common target is below about 20%.
5. Safety
Keep stacks away from the house walls (termites and fire risk), and check for snakes and spiders when you move them.
6. Plan your stack
The Firewood Stack Volume Calculator works out what you have.
General information only. Check the maker's instructions, and ask your council about approvals.
