Proper wood seasoning is essential for wood users. Usually, wood that is not correctly dry will be problematic to burn. It is necessary to understand the proper stacking techniques and conditions to help season your wood properly and hasten the speed. Generally, wood takes about six months to dry properly. However, this duration may be longer or shorter depending on the original moisture content of the wood source. Wood seasoning can take 3 months to two years, depending on how you do it and how best you want it seasoned. You need to know that adequately seasoned wood will burn better and longer, so the hustle is worth it. But how do you ensure that your wood is stacked sufficiently for adequate seasoning?
Placing the Firewood Right
Several factors affect the drying and seasoning of your wood. First would be the time the wood was cut, how it was sorted after being cut, and where it is stored. The first thing you should do is find the appropriate location for the woodpile. It should be somewhere outside, away from any structures, including your house. Try to keep the pile at least 5 feet from the wall of your house to prevent termites from migrating into your home. Using a firewood seasoning shed is a useful tool before you begin the process of stacking the firewood.
Pile Location Traits
No matter where you choose to have the firewood pile, make sure it is appropriate. It should have enough sunlight circulation, proper wind exposure, and be at least 5 to 30 feet away from your house. Avoid shade during the drying and seasoning phase to avoid excess moisture that can lead to wood rot.
Stacking Techniques
Wood dries best under different conditions. A combination of techniques can help accelerate the seasoning process:
Cross-Stacking
You have a better chance of having your wood dry better and faster if stacked in an alternating direction but in a single row. Just be sure not to stack it too high or have it supported by a fence. If impossible, use two tiers. You should permit as much air as possible into the stack by using irregular shaped logs, creating cross-stack channels for more air circulation. Also, stack the split logs with the bark side facing up to protect against moisture infiltration.
Keeping the Wood off the Ground
The firewood should be raised off the ground to prevent it from sucking up moisture and to discourage bus infestation. You can build a concrete platform to help with this. Alternatively, consider a firewood rack or a woodshed with legs to lift the firewood off the ground.
Covering the Wood Outside
While it is advisable to leave the stacked wood open most of the time, you may need a tarp to cover the stack in rainy or snowy weather. This will help prevent moisture from making the wood wet again and rendering it unusable.
.