Tips for storing logs during the winter
October 21, 2016
It’s that time of year again where it’s time to start planning for the winter.
So, after a long, wet winter last year, it’s more important than ever to get stocked up and make sure you have enough logs to take you through winter.
How much firewood do you need?
This is the most difficult question to answer and depends on so many factors such as the size of your house and the use of the wood but advisement suggests working on about 3 – 4 m3 per annum. That’s based on using it most evenings and weekends from October to April.
How to keep them dry
- Splitting the wood Depending on how you buy your wood you may split the wood yourself; splitting them into separate pieces which will speed up the drying process. Or you can buy logs that are already split halving your work load and you will get the best quality wood, split in the correct way.
- Outside Drying If you’re lucky with the weather, although living in the UK means this will be unlikely! You can let your logs dry in the outside before storing them away. The wind will speed up the drying process.
- Wooden Pallets Using wooden pallets guarantees that the logs are elevated off the ground and off a damp surface. It also gives plenty of circulation from underneath. Ventilation is key to keeping your logs dry.
Where to store your logs
Wood is highly susceptible to exposure to the elements, especially rain, snow and sleet. If your wood supply is stored inaccurately and it gets wet, it will start to decay. Dampness is a huge factor affecting the amount of heat your wood will produce for your home. Keeping your firewood supply as dry as possible will maximize the benefits and you’re overall investment.
There are a few options out on the market in reference to storing your logs. These are:
- Wooden Log Stores – are the most common form of storage. Wooden Log stores are easy to put together and give a more natural feel to the surroundings. They are also adapted to allow the logs to breathe which will keep them dry. However, as they are made of wood they too get damp and require the wood to be treated. We suggest Forest Flip Roof Log Store
- Plastic/Woven Baskets – an aesthetically pleasing option. However they do not hold many logs and if you have a large need for wood they can become an expensive option and space consuming.
- Metal Log Store – Metal log stores are the most expensive option. However they offer a strong material which does not suffer with the elements. This also means they do not require any treatment. Metal is also the strongest form of storage which will allow peace of mind during the winter months with heavy rain and winds. The Trimetals log store is a high quality modern solution, it is convenient and easy to use and offers good ventilation https://www.trimetals.co.uk/product/log-storage/
