Again, seasoning is the key. The drier any wood, the hotter it burns and storage is the key to seasoning wood and keeping it seasoned, according to the Wood Heat Organization. The best seasoned wood can be ruined if it's left exposed to rain and snow to reabsorb water, which can cause it to rot. Stack firewood up, off the ground to allow air to circulate among the logs and help the wood season or remain dry. Store firewood away from the house and other wood structures to keep the wood borne pests away from your home and other structures.
Ideal storage is a wood shed , with open or loose sides to promote air circulation and drying.
Outside, a sunny location is best, but cover firewood on rainy or snowy days. Be sure to remove the covering during fair weather to allow air circulation and to avoid trapping moisture under the covering. With proper storage, seasoned wood can last three to four years, says the Wood Heat Organization . Safe Winter Weather Warrants Energy Efficient Efforts, Intimate Inspections Broderick Perkins has been a consumer journalist for 23 years. Experienced in daily print, electronic, and consulting journalism, he is executive editor of San Jose, CA-based, DeadlineNews.