What are risks of stacking firewood too tightly together?

Drying and Stacking Firewood

When stacking firewood, it’s essential to maintain a decent air gap between each log to allow for proper drying. A general rule of thumb is to leave a 1/4 inch (6 mm) gap between each log, which allows for air circulation and moisture evaporation. Stacking firewood too tightly together can lead to slow drying, as the logs are unable to breathe.

Stacking Techniques

A good stacking technique involves alternating the direction of the logs to create a staggered pattern. This helps to allow air to flow through the stack and prevents the logs from touching each other. It’s also essential to stack the firewood in a way that allows for easy access and can be easily rotated to ensure even drying.

Moisture Content and Firewood Quality

Firewood with a high moisture content is prone to mold, rot, and slow burning. When stacking firewood, it’s crucial to aim for a moisture content of 20% or lower. To achieve this, it’s recommended to split the firewood into thin slats and allow it to dry for at least six months before storing it. This will ensure that the firewood is dry and ready for use, and will help to minimize the risks associated with stacking firewood too tightly together.