Are you looking for a way to keep your firewood dry during the winter?
I once had to store my wood under a tarp and I wish I had spent more time thinking about a proper outdoor firewood storage space. But you can’t let it get wet. A specific wood storage area can keep your firewood protected and ready to use.
I did a lot of research trying to figure out a better way to store my firewood in a stylish way. I am sharing some of these firewood storage ideas in this article.
Contents
- 1 Firewood Storage Ideas
- 1.1 A Small Firewood Storage Shed With Shelves
- 1.2 Great Pyramids
- 1.3 Keep It Compact
- 1.4 Divert Water With A Slanted Roof
- 1.5 Colorful And Slanted
- 1.6 A Real Space Saver
- 1.7 Around A Fire Pit
- 1.8 Create A Useable Surface
- 1.9 Or A Firewood Rack With A Shelf
- 1.10 Or By A Wood Burner
- 1.11 Create Large Shelving On The Wall
- 1.12 Or Smaller Shelving
- 1.13 DIY Wall Shelves
- 1.14 Small And Simple
- 1.15 Round And Ultramodern
- 1.16 A Concrete Block Rack
- 1.17 Or A Wooden V-Shape
- 1.18 A Large, No-Tools Firewood Storage Area
- 1.19 On Wheels
- 1.20 Built Into The Wall
- 1.21 More Modern Shelving
- 2 3 Best Firewood Storage Safety Tips
- 3 FAQs
- 4 Rounding Up The Best Firewood Storage Ideas
- 5 About The Author
Firewood Storage Ideas
A Small Firewood Storage Shed With Shelves
This small shed is just big enough to become a firewood storage, but also for some shelving. If you want, I’d suggest you store your tools, such as an ax for your wood, or decorative items to spruce the wood storage area up.
| Pros | Cons |
| Can be used for tool storage | Limited storage space for firewood |
| Freestanding design allows flexible placement | May not be suitable for wet climates |
| Enhances the aesthetic of the firewood storage area with decor |
Great Pyramids
Pyramids aren’t just for Egypt! This triangular design gives plenty of protection for firewood and doesn’t look too difficult to make. Some old crates provide a base and a simple wooden roof keeps rain and snow away from this firewood holder.
| Pros | Cons |
| Provides protection for firewood | May not hold as much firewood as other designs |
| Easy to DYI | May not be suitable for wet climates |
| Unique triangular design adds visual interest to outdoor area | |
| Customizable |
Keep It Compact
Most people think that firewood storage takes up loads of space. I think that this is far from the truth. This clever DIY firewood rack sits against a wall and doesn’t take up too much storage space. The metal roof also means that water will keep the wood dry.
| Pros | Cons |
| Takes up little space | May not hold a lot of firewood |
| Metal roof keeps wood dry | May not be aesthetically pleasing compared to other designs |
| Easy to DIY with minimal tools |
Divert Water With A Slanted Roof
This is another sturdy firewood holder that is placed against a wall. The clever slanted design of the roof helps water or snow trickle away, keeping your wood dry.
| Pros | Cons |
| Sturdy design ensuring long-lasting use | May take up a lot of space |
| Roof keeps firewood protected from elements | Cannot be easily moved once placed |
| Can accommodate a significant amount of firewood | May not fit well with certain outdoor designs |
Colorful And Slanted
Who says firewood storage has to be boring! You can add a splash of color, just like this freestanding shed. Plus, this is one of the most compact firewood storage ideas I could find!
This is another wood storage area that has a slanted roof to divert water and there’s something that looks very satisfying about it being totally full. I guess that’s what makes firewood racks so beautiful, eh?
| Pros | Cons |
| Compact firewood storage can save space | May not allow for as much firewood to be stored |
| Roof protects firewood from elements |
A Real Space Saver
This DIY firewood rack could easily be confused for a stand, TV cabinet, or even a coffee table.
This is a very effective use of space, even if you just use the top for decorative plants, like in this photograph. You can find more firewood storage ideas at apieceofrainbow.com, a blog all about DIY home decor and landscaping projects.
| Pros | Cons |
| Compact, space-saving design | May not hold a lot of firewood if used primarily for storage |
| Multi-functional | Requires time and effort to build |
| Can be DIY-ed |
Around A Fire Pit
This is one of the most creative firewood storage ideas I’ve seen — perfect if you want to store wood for a fire pit! This design has four firewood racks, all of which have a firewood storage bench, surrounding the pit itself.
This is an all-in-one design that cleverly makes use of the space. Plus, the thing I love about these firewood racks is that you can just get your logs from under your feet when it is time to throw another on the pit. See more details on the project on instructables.com, a place that lets you explore, document, and share your creations!
| Pros | Cons |
| Creative and efficient use of space | May not be suitable for smaller outdoor spaces |
| Convenient access to firewood | Building materials and tools may be expensive |
| Provides seating options |
Create A Useable Surface
​At first glance, I thought this was an outdoor surface designed for serving food and drinks or even for food preparation. But, it’s actually an outdoor firewood rack!
You can find more outdoor firewood racks on the bowerpowerblog.com, a blog about homes, lifestyle, and just about anything else.
| Pros | Cons |
| Dual functionality saves space | May not be suitable for small spaces with limited outdoor areas |
| Provides a stylish outdoor accessory | Does not hold much wood |
Or A Firewood Rack With A Shelf
This is another very clever design. The way the storage unit is constructed provides a shelf area in the middle. This can be a place to store an ax or other tools, or just somewhere to place some evergreen plants.
This is also quite a shallow design, so it doesn’t take up a lot of storage space in your yard. I’m sure that, with this DIY firewood rack, you’ll not need any extra space with an indoor firewood storage.
| Pros | Cons |
| Clever design with central storage shelf | May not hold as much firewood as larger racks |
| Shallow design saves yard space | May not fit larger pieces of firewood |
| The shelf can be used for decor |
Or By A Wood Burner
This is an incredibly modern look for a firewood rack and has a beautiful symmetry to it. Why not create a feature wall with the wood burner in the middle and wood stored on either side?
I can only imagine how cozy this area is on a winter patio during a cold winter evening!
| Pros | Cons |
| Modern and visually appealing design | Not suitable for smaller outdoor spaces |
| Provides a functional storage space for firewood | Requires regular maintenance to keep wood dry |
| Can be used as a feature piece for a patio or outdoor area | Can be potentially hazardous if not built or used correctly |
Create Large Shelving On The Wall
This outdoor firewood rack uses a whole wall to create a sort of outdoor shelving unit. It has lots of shelves, so you can use one as a firewood holder and store plants, tools, or just about anything else you wish on the other shelves.
I believe that this is a pretty clever way to turn your DIY firewood racks into a cool-looking design.
| Pros | Cons |
| Efficient use of outdoor space | May not be as sturdy as traditional firewood racks |
| Can serve multiple purposes | Can take up a significant amount of wall space |
| Adds a stylish element to outdoor décor | May not be suitable for areas with harsh weather conditions |
Or Smaller Shelving
If you don’t have quite as much space for your firewood rack, you can get the same shelving effect in a smaller area.
This example is full of wood, but you can use some of the shelves for storing other things or for decorating if you wish. I think that this compact DIY firewood rack is the best space-efficient firewood holder you can make.
| Pros | Cons |
| Takes up less space | May not hold as much firewood as a larger rack |
| Can be easily DIYed |
DIY Wall Shelves
These shelves look like they are made out of old wooden pallets. By turning them on their side, you could potentially get a similar design for your outdoor firewood rack.
| Pros | Cons |
| Gives a more rustic appearance to outdoor space | May not be as sturdy or durable as professionally-made racks |
| A RElatively simple DYI project | May not be suitable for wet climates |
| Provides ample storage for firewood |
Small And Simple
These cute round DIY firewood racks are pretty small. Why not have an indoor firewood storage and then have a larger outdoor firewood holder? You’ll save yourself from having to constantly go outside to get more firewood when you need it.
And, I believe that having more than one firewood rack is always great, especially if you have a lot of wood.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cute and stylish design | Holds small amounts of firewood |
| Space-saving and convenient for indoor firewood storage |
Round And Ultramodern
I’m pretty sure that this firewood rack belongs in a modern art gallery, wouldn’t you agree. The round design protects the wood and, by splitting it into two areas, you can create shelving to separate kindling or tools.
You can check out a few more ideas for a firewood rack at deavita.fr, a French blog dedicated to home improvement and design.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unique and artistic design | Has limited storage capacity |
| Can be used to separate kindling/tools | Might not be practical for smaller living spaces |
| Adds aesthetic value to your home | Could be expensive compared to traditional firewood racks |
A Concrete Block Rack
To create outdoor firewood racks using no tools at all, you can simply stack cinder blocks or concrete blocks with wood. This clever firewood rack gives a sturdy surface and keeps your wood contained, but doesn’t require you to get your tools out even once.
I’d suggest you check out instructables.com, a website all about DIY projects, for more wood rack ideas.
| Pros | Cons |
| No-tools-required DIY project | May not be as aesthetically pleasing as a pre-made rack |
| Creates a sturdy surface for firewood | Limited design options with just stacking blocks |
| Saves money on purchasing a pre-made rack | May not be as durable as a pre-made rack |
Or A Wooden V-Shape
This couldn’t be simpler. Just put two firm planks of wood in a concrete block and you have yourself a V-shaped firewood rack! I have to say that no wood rack has been as simple to make as this one.
This is simple to make and it looks pretty good — just make sure you place your firewood holder somewhere that won’t get easily wet.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy and inexpensive to make | May not hold as much firewood as other racks |
| Looks visually appealing | May not be as sturdy as other racks |
| Provides a designated space to store firewood | May not be suitable for wet climates |
A Large, No-Tools Firewood Storage Area
More cinder blocks are used in this construction and it is amazingly simple, even though it is a huge place to store wood. One of the benefits of a firewood rack like this is that it can be temporary. It’s easy to move when all the wood is used.
This design is particularly good for an indoor area where it won’t get wet. A winter-covered gazebo would be a suitable space.
| Pros | Cons |
| More cinder blocks make the construction more durable | Extra cinder blocks increase the cost |
| A no-tools-required DIY project | May not be suitable for wet climates |
| Easy to move |
On Wheels
If you need to move your firewood around for multiple fires, I think that this would be a great choice. It also stacks the wood high, so it doesn’t take up too much floor space — perfect for preserving indoor space.
For more indoor firewood storage DIY projects, check out theownerbuildernetwork.co, a blog all about doing things yourself (DIY).
| Pros | Cons |
| Makes moving firewood more convenient | Could be difficult to maneuver |
| Saves floor space | May not hold as much firewood as other storage options |
| Provides easy access to firewood |
Built Into The Wall
I have to say that this is one of the more ambitious designs on this list. If you have a recessed area in your wall, why not use it to rebuild some firewood shelves and storage?
This rustic design reminds me of an old-fashioned European tavern. You could even use some of the shelves to store or display other items. This may take a lot of construction, but the design is very striking.
| Pros | Cons |
| Utilizes empty space in the wall | Complex to implement |
| Provides convenient storage for firewood | May not fit with the overall interior desing |
| Adds rustic and unique charm to room | |
| Provides additional storage |
More Modern Shelving
You could see these shelves being used for firewood in the winter and beautiful plants in the summer. They have a simple look that is quite modern, but this would also work with classical decor.
I believe that tucking the wood away next to a fire or wood burner can turn the whole area into a design feature, as well.
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexible use for different seasons | Limited storage space |
| Simple and modern design | May not be sturdy enough to hold heavier logs |
| Could enhance the aesthetic of the fireplace area |
3 Best Firewood Storage Safety Tips
Store Firewood Outside & Away From The House
In the words of Robert Trickel from the North Carolina Forest Service and Nicole Wulff and Bill Jones from the US Forest Service, storing firewood logs inside or close to your home represents a fire hazard.
It also increases the risk of insect and pest infestation.
For these reasons, I advise you to stack your logs at least 10 feet away from your house or other buildings in your yard and out of reach of your pets and kids.
Don’t Leave Firewood Sitting On The Ground For A Long Time
I suggest keeping your log piles small so that you can use them within a short period of time. Also, make sure to use your entire pile of firewood instead of just piling new wood on top of some of the old stuff. Why? According to Terminix, a global leader in pest management, leaving firewood on the ground for too long creates a safe haven for pests. The same goes if your firewood is surrounded by grass or plant growth.
I have a great storage idea to keep your firewood off the ground. You can build this super-easy log holder shown in the video below:
Avoid Treating Your Firewood With Chemicals
I thought it was ok to spray my wood with pesticides to prevent pests. But, as I learned from a Scientific Journal article written by Charles K. McMahon et al, and published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, this could be a deadly mistake. Burning wood treated with chemicals can release high percentages of pesticides, especially if you heat it up slowly.
FAQs
Should firewood be covered outside?
Firewood should be covered outside to protect it from the elements. Rain and snow increase the percentage of moisture in your wood and, according to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, wet wood is wasted wood. I can tell you from personal experience that it creates more smoke too.
What is the best surface to store firewood?
The best surface to store firewood is concrete or asphalt, but you can stack it on clean gravel too. As long as your wood is not exposed to soil and moisture, everything should be fine. If you have to stack your logs on soil, place a waterproof tarp underneath.
Can firewood get rained on?
Firewood should not get rained on, so I suggest getting a removable waterproof top cover to put over your logs while it rains or snows. Remove this cover when the weather clears to secure sufficient airflow. Alternatively, store your firewood in an open shed.
Rounding Up The Best Firewood Storage Ideas
I bet you never knew there were so many firewood storage ideas? I wanted to show that this is a chance to get creative while ensuring your firewood is properly protected and stored in a way that is easy on the eye or out of sight in a London Storage Space, which is hard to come by, according to Henfield Storage, a UK-based self-storage company.
Did you enjoy my list? Please share it with others if you think it will be useful for your friends during the wintertime.
Além de tudo isso que diz ser é também muito bonita. Obrigada por partilhar estas ideias.
Almost every one of these outside ideas leaves the wood exposed to the elements. Living in a northern climate with lots of ice and snow, we have to keep our wood covered or waste time drying it indoors.
These are great ideas