So, you’ve taken delivery of some high-quality, Ready To Burn kiln-dried logs. Now, it’s time to store them properly to ensure they stay dry and burn efficiently when you need them. Here are five simple steps to help you store your kiln-dried logs correctly – ensuring your log burning dreams don’t become a nightmare:

1) Invest in a log store

If you have the space, a purpose-built log store is the best place to keep your firewood dry. Position your log store in direct sunlight (ideally south-facing), ensuring it has good airflow and is easily accessible. Most log stores are open at the front, have a slanted roof, and come with a raised floor to keep your logs off the ground.

2) Protect from the elements

To shield your logs from rain, snow, and ice, use a weatherproof firewood cover or a sheet of tarpaulin. However, when the weather is dry and sunny, remove the cover to allow ample ventilation around your logs. This prevents them from sweating and helps maintain their dry condition.

3) Choose the right location

While it’s important to store logs with plenty of sunlight with good airflow, avoid placing them in areas exposed to excessive wind that could blow in rain. Carefully consider the location to balance sun exposure and protection from the elements.

4) Avoid overhead branches

Ensure your log store is situated away from any overhanging branches. Rainwater dripping from branches can soak your logs, compromising their dryness and burn quality. After all, there’s no point buying kiln dried logs that are ready for immediate use if they’re only going to get wet again.

5) Keep logs off the grass

Never dump your logs directly on the grass. Kiln-dried logs can absorb moisture from the ground like a sponge, affecting their ability to burn efficiently. Always stack your logs properly in a well-located log store immediately after delivery.

Additional Tips for Optimal Log Storage

• Stacking Technique: Stack your logs in a crisscross pattern. This method enhances airflow, ensuring your logs remain dry and well-ventilated. Proper stacking also helps prevent the pile from toppling over.
• Regular Rotation: Rotate your logs periodically. Use the “first in, first out” method to ensure the oldest logs are used first, maintaining the overall quality of your firewood supply.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep the area around your log store clean and free from debris. This not only helps in maintaining good airflow but also reduces the chances of pests making a home in your firewood.
• Pest Control: Check your log store regularly for signs of pests. If you notice any infestation, take immediate action to prevent damage to your logs. Using natural repellents can be an effective measure.
• Monitor Humidity: If you live in a particularly humid area, consider using a moisture meter to regularly check the moisture content of your logs. Aim to keep the moisture content below 20% for optimal burning efficiency.
• Elevate Individual Logs: For extra protection, consider placing individual logs on small pallets or racks within the store. This further prevents ground moisture from seeping into the logs.

By following these five crucial steps, you can keep your logs dry and ready to burn, ensuring they perform as expected when you need them.

DISCLAIMER

*This advice is for guidance only. Once our logs are in your care and stored away, we cannot control their condition or how they will burn afterwards.

For more tips and advice on log storage and burning, visit our blog

• Read more of our blogs for more handy wood burning tips and tricks.
• To see our range of Ready To Burn-certified kiln dried logs and arrange a FREE DELIVERY (to the home side – NOT the kerb side) take a look around our SHOP