Buying premium kiln-dried firewood is only half the battle. To get the best heat output and longest burn times, it's just as important to store your logs correctly once they arrive.

Poor storage can allow moisture to creep back into your firewood, making it harder to light, reducing heat output, and creating unnecessary smoke. Fortunately, storing firewood properly is simple if you follow a few key principles.

At The Northern Firewood Co, we're passionate about supplying premium kiln-dried firewood that's ready to use. In this guide, we'll explain the best way to store your logs so they stay in excellent condition throughout the year.

Why Proper Firewood Storage Matters

Even high-quality kiln-dried logs can absorb moisture if they're left exposed to rain or stored in damp conditions.

Correct storage helps to:

• Maintain a low moisture content
• Make logs easier to light
• Improve heat output
• Reduce smoke and soot
• Keep stove glass cleaner
• Help your firewood last longer
• Protect your investment

If you've paid for premium firewood, it's worth taking a few minutes to store it properly.

Choose a Dry, Well-Ventilated Location

The ideal place to store firewood is somewhere with plenty of airflow while offering protection from persistent rain.

Good storage locations include:

• Purpose-built log stores
• Covered lean-tos
• Car ports
• Open-fronted sheds
• Covered patios with good ventilation

Avoid storing logs in damp cellars, enclosed garages with poor airflow, or directly against outside walls where moisture can build up.

Keep Firewood Off the Ground

Never stack logs directly onto soil, grass or concrete.

Ground moisture can gradually be absorbed into the bottom layer of logs.

Instead, use:

• Timber pallets
• Sleepers
• Log store bases
• Raised shelving

Keeping your logs elevated allows air to circulate underneath the stack and helps prevent damp.

Cover the Top, Not the Sides

A common mistake is wrapping the entire log pile in a waterproof sheet.

While this keeps rain out, it also traps moisture inside, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of condensation.

Instead:

• Cover the top of the stack.
• Leave the sides open.
• Allow wind to pass through the logs naturally.

Good ventilation is one of the most important aspects of firewood storage.

Stack Your Logs Correctly

A neat stack doesn't just look better—it also improves airflow.

For the best results:

• Stack logs bark-side up where practical.
• Leave small gaps between rows.
• Avoid packing logs too tightly.
• Build stable stacks that won't collapse.

Air moving around the logs helps them stay dry.

Can You Store Firewood Indoors?

Yes—but only keep a small quantity indoors at a time.

Many people keep a basket or log holder beside their stove for convenience.

Avoid storing large quantities inside warm living areas for extended periods, as this can attract insects if they were already present in the bark and takes up valuable space.

How Long Can Kiln-Dried Firewood Be Stored?

If stored correctly, kiln-dried logs can remain in excellent condition for many months.

Many homeowners buy their winter supply well in advance, allowing them to take advantage of stock availability and prepare before colder weather arrives.

As long as the logs remain dry and well ventilated, they'll be ready whenever you need them.

Common Firewood Storage Mistakes

Avoid these common errors:

• Leaving logs uncovered in the rain
• Storing logs directly on the ground
• Wrapping the entire stack in plastic
• Keeping logs in damp sheds without ventilation
• Stacking logs tightly against walls
• Blocking airflow around the pile

Making a few small improvements can have a noticeable impact on how well your firewood performs.

Signs Your Firewood Has Absorbed Moisture

If your logs have become damp, you may notice:

• Difficulty lighting the fire
• Hissing or steaming logs
• Increased smoke
• Reduced heat output
• Blackened stove glass
• More ash than usual

Keeping logs dry helps prevent these issues.

Why Choose Kiln-Dried Firewood?

Kiln-dried logs are carefully dried to achieve a low moisture content, making them easier to light and more efficient than wetter alternatives.

Benefits include:

• High heat output
• Cleaner burning
• Easier ignition
• Less smoke
• Better fuel efficiency
• More enjoyable fires

When combined with proper storage, kiln-dried firewood delivers excellent performance throughout the year.

Why Buy From The Northern Firewood Co?

At The Northern Firewood Co, we believe premium firewood should deliver premium performance.

Our customers choose us because we offer:

• Premium kiln-dried hardwood logs
• Consistent log sizes
• Carefully selected timber
• Excellent heat output
• Reliable UK-wide delivery
• Friendly customer service
• Firewood suitable for log burners, open fires, chimineas, pizza ovens and fire pits

Whether you're ordering a few net bags or a large crate, we're committed to supplying firewood you can rely on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should firewood be covered?

Yes, but only from above. Covering the top protects the logs from rain while leaving the sides open allows moisture to escape.

Can kiln-dried logs get wet again?

Yes. Even kiln-dried firewood can absorb moisture if it's left exposed to rain or stored in damp conditions.

Is a garage a good place to store logs?

A well-ventilated garage can work, but avoid damp or tightly sealed spaces where air cannot circulate.

Can I stack logs against a wall?

It's better to leave a small gap between the logs and the wall. This improves airflow and helps reduce moisture build-up.

Keep Your Firewood in Perfect Condition

Premium firewood deserves premium storage. By keeping your logs dry, well ventilated and off the ground, you'll enjoy cleaner fires, better heat output and improved efficiency every time you light your stove.

At The Northern Firewood Co, we supply premium kiln-dried firewood that's carefully prepared for outstanding performance and delivered directly to customers across the UK. Order today and enjoy reliable warmth throughout every season.