The Ultimate Guide to Storing Firewood this Fall: Do's, Don'ts & Best Racks

Kelly in Electronics & Appliances Sep 13 • 16 min read

Storing firewood properly is essential to maintain its quality, prevent pests, and ensure it burns efficiently when needed.

Whether you're storing firewood for a cozy winter night or outdoor bonfires, understanding the best practices is key to preserving your wood and keeping your home safe. In this guide, we will outline the essential do’s and don’ts for firewood storage, covering everything from choosing the right rack to preventing pest infestations. We’ll also provide a review of the eight best outdoor firewood racks, along with their features, benefits, and pricing to help you make an informed choice.

The Do’s of Firewood Storage

1. Store Firewood on an Elevated Rack or Shelf

One of the most important aspects of firewood storage is keeping it off the ground. Storing firewood on an elevated rack or shelf allows for proper air circulation, which is essential to prevent moisture buildup. Wet wood is inefficient to burn and can lead to mold and rot, making it unusable.

Why Elevation Matters:

Prevents moisture from accumulating at the base
Keeps pests like termites and ants from accessing the wood
Allows the wood to dry evenly, making it more efficient to burn

2. Use a Durable Material for Your Rack

Firewood racks should be made of a durable material such as steel, which can withstand harsh weather and the weight of stacked firewood. Steel racks are typically rust-resistant and last for years, providing a stable foundation for your woodpile.

Recommended Materials:

Powder-coated steel for rust resistance
Alloy steel or galvanized metal for long-lasting durability

3. Allow for Proper Airflow

While covering your firewood to protect it from rain is necessary, airflow is equally important. Ensure that your firewood stack is covered but not completely enclosed, as this can trap moisture. An open or vented cover allows air to flow through, keeping your wood dry and preventing mold.

Proper Covering:

Use a partial cover that protects the top of the stack but leaves the sides open for ventilation.

4. Store Firewood Away from Structures

Firewood should be stored at least 3 to 5 feet away from any buildings, such as your home or garage. Storing wood too close to a structure increases the risk of pests, such as termites, moving into your home. Pests love woodpiles, so it’s crucial to keep a safe distance.

5. Use a Solid Foundation

To prevent moisture from the ground seeping into your firewood, it’s advisable to place the rack on a solid foundation. A layer of stones or a vapor barrier works well to keep the base of your woodpile dry.

6. Harvest Firewood at the Right Time

The best time to harvest firewood is in late summer or early fall. This allows ample time for the wood to season, drying it out before winter use. Properly seasoned wood burns more cleanly and efficiently, providing better heat output.

7. Invest in a Seasoning Shed

If you’re serious about firewood, consider using a seasoning shed. These sheds are designed to provide proper airflow while protecting the wood from rain and pests. They can speed up the seasoning process, ensuring your wood is dry and ready to burn.

The Don’ts of Firewood Storage

1. Don’t Store Firewood Directly on the Ground

Storing firewood directly on the ground is one of the most common mistakes. Ground contact introduces moisture and attracts pests. Always elevate your woodpile to avoid these issues.

2. Don’t Cover Firewood Completely

A full enclosure may seem like a good idea, but it traps moisture, leading to rot. Instead, opt for a cover that shields your firewood from rain but allows air to circulate through the sides.

3. Don’t Store Firewood Indoors

While it might be tempting to keep a large stack of firewood inside during the winter months, this practice can introduce pests like termites, carpenter ants, and rodents into your home. Store firewood outside and only bring in small amounts as needed.

4. Don’t Let Firewood Touch Trees or Plants

Woodpiles that are too close to trees can become a bridge for pests like carpenter ants and termites. Keep your woodpile away from vegetation to minimize the risk of infestations.

Common Pests to Watch for in Firewood Storage

Wood-Boring Beetles: These include powderpost beetles, carpenter ants, and old house borers. The larvae can tunnel through the wood, weakening it.
Termites: Both subterranean and dry wood termites are attracted to moist or wet wood. They can cause significant damage if left unchecked.
Carpenter Ants: These ants may nest in woodpiles, especially those in contact with the ground.
Mice and Rats: Rodents may seek shelter in woodpiles over the winter, causing damage and leaving droppings.
Carpenter Bees: Adult bees can bore into dry wood to lay eggs, weakening the wood over time.
Carpenterworms: These larvae tunnel through wood, creating unsightly debris and weakening its structure.

Preventing Pests

Store firewood off the ground.
Inspect your wood regularly for signs of infestation.
Season your wood properly, as fully dried wood is less attractive to pests.

The 8 Best Outdoor Firewood Racks

1. Woodhaven 5-ft Outdoor Firewood Rack

Price: $186
Features: Made of 16-gauge steel, rust-resistant powder coating, includes a partial cover, available in multiple sizes.
Benefits: Heavy-duty and built to last, this rack keeps firewood elevated and protected from moisture.
Why Choose It: Ideal for anyone who needs a durable, long-lasting solution for outdoor wood storage.

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2. Foyuee Outdoor Firewood Rack

Price: $50
Features: Basic design, alloy steel construction, rust-resistant powder coating, narrow width of 15 inches.
Benefits: A budget-friendly option that’s easy to assemble and rust-resistant.
Why Choose It: Perfect for small spaces or those with a limited amount of firewood.

3. Sunnydaze Hexagon Outdoor Firewood Rack

Price: $185
Features: Oxidized steel construction, honeycomb shape, can combine multiple racks, holds 1/8 face cord.
Benefits: A stylish design that adds aesthetic appeal while providing ample firewood storage.
Why Choose It: Great for those who want a modern, decorative firewood storage solution.

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4. A Anleolife Galvanized Steel Firewood Rack

Price: $96
Features: Corrugated roof with gutters, galvanized steel, rust-resistant, holds 1/2 face cord.
Benefits: Offers excellent protection from rain, keeping your firewood dry and ready to burn.
Why Choose It: Ideal for those in rainy climates or who want maximum protection for their woodpile.

5. Hisencn Storage Station Outdoor Firewood Rack

Price: $199
Features: Includes waterproof tarp and cover, shelf and hooks for accessories, powder-coated steel frame.
Benefits: The additional accessories make this a versatile option for firewood storage and tool organization.
Why Choose It: Best for those who need extra storage for firewood tools and kindling.

6. Amagabeli Garden & Home Outdoor Firewood Rack

Price: $50
Features: Sturdy powder-coated steel, rust-resistant, holds 1/4 face cord, available in multiple sizes.
Benefits: A cost-effective and durable solution for small woodpiles.
Why Choose It: Perfect for those on a budget who need a reliable outdoor firewood rack.

7. Goplus Hoop Outdoor Firewood Rack

Price: $50
Features: Tubular steel construction, holds 1/4 face cord, space for kindling, protruding screws.
Benefits: Compact and easy to assemble, with additional space for kindling storage.
Why Choose It: Ideal for compact spaces or those needing extra kindling storage.

8. Sunnydaze Decor Steel Full Face Cord Firewood Rack

Price: $135
Features: Holds a full face cord, powder-coated tubular steel, included waterproof cover, 8-foot size.
Benefits: Large storage capacity, rust-resistant, and offers full protection from the elements.
Why Choose It: Great for those with large woodpiles who need long-term storage protection.

Final Thoughts

Properly storing firewood can significantly enhance its performance and prevent issues like moisture buildup and pest infestations. By following the do’s and don’ts of firewood storage, you’ll ensure that your firewood is always ready for use.

Investing in a quality firewood rack is crucial to keep your wood dry and free from pests. Whether you’re storing a small pile or a full cord, the racks mentioned in this guide offer a range of solutions to fit your needs. From the durable Woodhaven rack to the budget-friendly Amagabeli option, there’s a perfect solution for every firewood storage requirement.