Best storage locations for firewood
How to keep firewood dry
How to prevent pests
Fire safety tips
How to save money for next season
The importance of sustainable practices and shopping local
As we transition into spring in New Zealand, it's crucial not to overlook firewood after a long, chilly winter. If you're considering using firewood next season, now is the opportune time to initiate safe storage and intelligent purchasing practices.
The Firewood Company is here to guide you with top tips on how to save money and maintain your firewood in excellent condition, ready for the next winter.
Effective firewood storage during the warmer months is a key factor in preserving the quality of your wood and preventing pests and fire hazards around your home. Here's a comprehensive guide to safely storing your firewood this spring and how to save money by stocking up early for next winter.
How Do I Choose the Right Storage Location For My Firewood?
Choosing an appropriate spot to store firewood is a critical decision that impacts both safety and the quality of your wood. Opt for a dry and well-ventilated area; undercover is always the best choice, especially for softwoods, as they are prone to absorbing water quickly, leading to mouldy wood next season.
To reduce the risk of fire hazards, store your woodpile at least 10–20 feet away from your home or other buildings. This reduces fire risk and helps keep cockroaches and other pests away from your house.
Now is the time to update or fix any issues with your woodshed or storage area. Check for leaks or any weather damage. Or get busy this spring building a new woodshed.
How Do I Keep My Firewood Dry?
Ensure your firewood is stored in a dry location, away from rain and excess moisture. A well-ventilated area is ideal to allow airflow, which helps prevent mould and rot. It's also highly recommended to keep firewood off the ground as storing firewood directly on the ground invites moisture, pests, and decay. Elevate your stacks on a pallet or firewood rack to keep them dry and safe.
While covering firewood with a tarp or other waterproof material is essential to protect it from rain, leaving the sides open for airflow is important.
If you do not have a woodshed, we advise only covering the top of your woodpile to prevent rainwater from seeping while allowing the sides to remain exposed. Proper air circulation will help the wood dry and season over the warmer months, making it perfect for next winter.
Remember to stack firewood the firewood correctly in a crisscross or log cabin pattern. This technique creates spaces between the logs, allowing air to circulate and speed up drying.
How Do I Prevent Pests From Living In My Firewood?
Firewood piles can attract unwanted pests such as rodents, cockroaches, ants, and spiders. Here are some top tips to keep them away:
Elevate the stack: As mentioned earlier, keeping your wood off the ground helps prevent many pests from settling in.
Inspect and clean: Regularly inspect your woodpile for any signs of infestation. Remove any debris or old, decayed wood that could attract insects.
Don't store indoors: While it might seem convenient, storing firewood inside your home or garage can lead to pest infestations. Only bring in as much wood as you need for immediate use.
Fire Safety Precautions
Warmer weather can make firewood storage a fire risk if not handled correctly.
Avoid flammable materials and always keep firewood away from sources of ignition, such as barbecue grills, outdoor fire pits, or any other heat-producing equipment.
Creating a buffer zone and ensuring a cleared area of vegetation around your woodpile is also essential to prevent accidental fires, especially as the warmer season dries out nearby grass and plants.
Can I Save Money by Stocking Up On Firewood Early?
Spring is the perfect time to think ahead and start preparing for next winter. Firewood prices tend to be lower in the off-season, and by stocking up now, you can save money while ensuring your wood is correctly seasoned and ready to burn when the cold weather returns.
Buy in bulk: Many suppliers offer discounts for larger orders in the spring, making it more economical to buy in bulk. This is a great way to cut costs if you have enough storage space.
Look for off-peak sales: Many firewood companies will offer off-peak discounts for early stocking up.
Avoid the winter rush: By stocking up early, you can avoid the price hikes and shortages that often occur in winter. Many people wait until the last minute, resulting in higher prices and limited availability.
How Can I Stay Environmentally Conscious?
As you prepare your firewood for next season, consider sustainable practices. Purchase firewood from local, responsible suppliers who practice sustainable forestry. In New Zealand, it's important to avoid using firewood from native trees, as they are often protected species.
With the right storage and safety practices, you can keep your firewood in prime condition throughout spring and summer, ensuring it's ready for next winter. Not only will you save money by stocking up early, but you'll also avoid the last-minute scramble and higher prices when the cold weather sets in again.
By following these simple tips, you'll protect your home from pests and fire hazards while ensuring your firewood is perfectly seasoned for efficient, clean-burning heat when you need it most.
Are you looking for quality firewood to stock up for next winter? Be sure to explore local suppliers and check for sustainable options that support New Zealand's environment, like The Firewood Company!
Stay safe, and happy stacking!
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