Build Firewood Storage
Easy-to-Build Firewood Storage Options
Simple and Inexpensive Ways to Store Firewood Video-- watch this 4-minute video with instructions for 4 easy-to-build storage structures, including tips to minimize seasoning time. Need more capacity? They also allow you to extend, expand or build multiple structures.
Share what you built! Send a picture to burnwise@epa.gov.
Build a Woodshed
How to Build a Firewood Storage Shed - watch a 6 minute how-to video with simple building instructions to build your own firewood storage shed.
You can also print out the instructions and a materials list in English or Spanish or order free copies (receive in about 3 weeks).
Better protect your wood -- create an overhang
- Protect your wood from the elements by extending the shed roof 1 foot on all sides.
- Use a 6' x 10' metal roof instead of the 4' x 8'piece of plywood. To make this change, add a 2”X4”X 10’ board across both the front and back of the shed, and then attach additional 2”X4”X4’ roof rafters to each side. The roofing material can then be attached to this box frame, eliminating the need for the plywood.
Additional tips: Use 2”X4”s instead of 1”X4”s when installing the back, bottom and side slats - they are stronger and typically cost less (note: the how-to video already has this recommendation for the bottom slats). Consider resting the two 2”X6”s directly on the blocks and take the pressure off the screws. You can also use carriage bolts rather than lag screws.
General Firewood Storage Tips
- Split the firewood before stacking and storing to decrease drying time
- Use a base to keep wood off the ground to reduce pests and moisture
- Use a large enough roof so the overhang protects the wood from rain and snow
- Slope roof to prevent water collection
- Season wood for at least 6 months for soft wood and 12 months for hard wood
- If you have T-post or 2x4 ends on your structure, increase stability by using rope or wire to string the top of the T-post or 2x4 ends together