Firewood Seasoning and Storage

What does seasoning mean?

Freshly cut wood holds a lot of water, and much of the fire's energy goes into boiling it off. Seasoning is the time wood spends drying so it burns hotter and cleaner. Think of seasoning as a two-year project the first time. After that, a steady rotation keeps one stack drying while another is burned.

How long it takes depends on the species, the size of the pieces, the climate and the way you stack it. Dense hardwoods take longer than light woods, and split wood dries faster than whole logs.

Plan ahead. Many people cut and split a year or more in advance so there is always dry wood on hand.

How do I stack for good drying?

Stack split wood off the ground on pallets, rails or rocks, with the cut ends facing the prevailing wind if you can. Leave gaps so air moves through the stack. Placing the stack in a spot where afternoon sun and prevailing wind both reach it gives the best drying, and a gentle slope helps rain run away from the base.

Choose a sunny, breezy spot. Wood stacked in a damp, shaded corner dries slowly and may rot.

Keep rows narrow and not too tall, so they do not fall over. A stable stack is a safe stack.

• Off the ground on a solid base
• Sunny, open site with airflow
• Rows that are stable and not too tall
• Space between rows

Should I cover the stack?

Cover only the top to keep rain and snow off, and leave the sides open so air can dry the wood. Wrapping the whole pile traps moisture. Heavy plastic laid directly on the top and sides holds moisture and can cause mold, so avoid fully wrapped stacks.

A simple roof of metal sheeting, a tarp held down well, or a woodshed with open sides works. Check the covering after storms.

Once wood is dry, you can bring a small supply indoors, but not too much, since insects may emerge.

How can I tell if wood is ready?

Dry wood is lighter, has cracks at the ends, and makes a hollow sound when two pieces are knocked together. Bark may loosen. Wet wood is heavy and dull sounding. Do not rely on the calendar alone, since the same wood dries at very different speeds in a humid valley and on a windy ridge.

A moisture meter gives a more reliable reading than guesswork. Split a piece and test the freshly exposed face.

Burn dry wood and you will see easy starting, less smoke and a hotter fire.

What about pests and rot?

Wood stacks shelter insects, mice and sometimes snakes. Keep stacks away from the house walls and bring in only what you need for a few days. Carpenter ants and termites can move from wood to buildings. Store only a few days' worth of wood indoors and keep it on a rack or in a bin to catch bark and insects.

Do not move firewood long distances, since it can carry pests and disease. Rules vary by state, and some areas have quarantines.

Rot appears when wood stays damp, so rotate stock and burn the oldest first.

Why does it matter for safety?

Burning wet wood builds creosote in chimneys, which can cause chimney fires. Have your chimney and stove inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional on a regular schedule.

Install working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and keep them in good order. Ask your local fire department for guidance.

Keep ashes in a metal container away from buildings, as ashes can stay hot for days.

• Annual chimney inspection by a qualified professional
• Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• Metal ash bucket kept away from buildings

Where can I learn more?

Extension offices, state forestry agencies and your local fire department can provide information on firewood storage and safe burning. The Kansas State extension article cited here covers basics of harvesting and preparing firewood. If you are unsure how your stove should be run, ask the installer or a fire department for guidance instead of guessing.

Check air quality rules and burn bans in your county before lighting any fires.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.