How to keep your logs dry, safe and ready to burn.
By Wes Dodd – WD Wood Burner Installations, Poole, Bournemouth & Dorset
One of the biggest mistakes wood burner owners make isn’t with the stove itself – it’s with the logs. You could have the best wood burner in Dorset, but if your firewood isn’t stored correctly, you’ll end up with smoky fires, wasted heat, and a dirty chimney.
As a HETAS-registered installer covering Poole, Bournemouth, and the surrounding area, I’m often asked: “How should I store my logs to get the best burn?”
Here’s my complete guide to wood storage tips, including how to season logs, where to store them, and the key mistakes to avoid.
Why Proper Wood Storage Matters
- Moisture control: Wet logs are harder to light, smoke more, and clog your chimney.
- Efficiency: Dry logs produce more heat per log, saving you money.
- Safety: Damp logs lead to creosote build-up, which increases the risk of chimney fires.
- Convenience: A well-organised log store keeps wood accessible all winter.
The Golden Rule: Moisture Under 20%
The single most important factor is moisture content. Logs must be under 20% moisture to burn cleanly and efficiently.
- Wet wood (green logs): Can be 40–60% moisture – totally unsuitable.
- Seasoned wood: Naturally air-dried for 12–18 months, usually under 20%.
- Kiln-dried wood: Dried quickly in a kiln to under 15% moisture – the best choice for immediate use.
💡 Tip: Invest in a cheap moisture meter (around £20). It’s the easiest way to check your logs are ready to burn.
How to Store Logs Outdoors
- Raise off the ground: Use pallets, bricks, or a rack to prevent damp rising.
- Allow airflow: Stack loosely with gaps for air circulation.
- Cover the top, not the sides: Use a roof or waterproof sheet over the top, but keep the sides open so air can move through.
- Face the sun/wind: Position your log store where it gets the most natural airflow.
Indoor Log Storage
It’s fine to keep a small supply of logs indoors for convenience, but:
- Only bring in what you’ll use in a few days.
- Keep away from radiators and stoves to avoid overheating or pests.
- Use log baskets or crates to keep things tidy.
Comparison Table – Good vs Bad Wood Storage
| Storage Method | Result |
|---|---|
| Logs stacked on pallets under a roof, sides open | Dry, seasoned logs ready to burn |
| Logs dumped directly on soil | Damp, mouldy logs, high moisture |
| Covered tightly with a tarpaulin | Poor airflow, logs sweat and stay damp |
| Stacked near airflow/sun | Logs dry faster, cleaner burn |
| Stored indoors in bulk | Attracts pests, wood stays damp if not pre-dried |
Tips for Seasoning Your Own Logs
If you source your own wood in Dorset:
- Split logs to speed up drying.
- Stack in single rows rather than big piles.
- Season for at least 12 months (oak may take 24 months).
- Always test moisture before burning.
FAQ: Wood Storage for Log Burners
1. Can I burn logs straight after chopping?
No – freshly cut logs are too wet. They need seasoning for at least a year or kiln drying.
2. Is kiln-dried wood better than seasoned wood?
Both are excellent if under 20% moisture. Kiln-dried is ready immediately and often cleaner, while seasoned can be cheaper if you have space to store.
3. How much firewood should I store for winter?
On average, a household in Dorset using a log burner daily may need 3–5 cubic metres of logs per winter.
4. Can I store logs in a garage or shed?
Yes, but make sure there’s ventilation. Sealed spaces trap moisture.
5. Should I cover my logs with a tarpaulin?
Only cover the top – never wrap the whole pile, as this stops airflow and keeps logs damp.
6. What’s the best wood for storing and burning?
Hardwoods like oak, ash, or beech last longer and burn hotter than softwoods.
Final Thoughts
Storing your logs properly is just as important as choosing the right stove. Dry wood burns hotter, cleaner, and safer – giving you the best from your log burner.
Whether you’re in Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, Swanage, Wareham, or Corfe Mullen, I can help with expert advice on wood burners, installations, and chimney care.
👉 Contact WD Wood Burner Installations today for professional fitting, sweeping, and tips on how to get the most from your stove.
