How Can I Dry Firewood More Quickly?

You always want to burn firewood when it is completely dry because the wood will produce the most heat when it has dried thoroughly. Damp wood will only begin to burn after the moisture is gone as the energy from the fire will be spent removing the excess moisture. There is no fast trick to drying wood; the best you can do is prepare it at least 6 to 12 months ahead of time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Ax
Chopping block
Dry place for storage

Step 1

Take the ax and your chopping block. Split the wood into firewood lengths as soon as you can. This will accelerate the drying process by exposing more of the wood's surface area to the air. Remember that air circulation is key to drying firewood faster.

Step 2

Stack the wood neatly in a criss-cross pattern. Arrange the end of wood pieces so that each row is perpendicular to the row beneath it. Find pieces similar in size to avoid collapsing. After doing this pattern to the end of the stacks, fill in the middle of the stack normally. This alternating pattern will help quicken drying time. Do not stack firewood directly on the ground because this will cause the wood on the bottom of the pile to dampen and decompose.

Step 3

Store the firewood in a dry, sunny place. This is important, as storing the firewood in a shady, moist area will slow the drying process. If you have to store it inside a structured area, make sure there is enough ventilation.

Step 4

Cover the top with a tarp to protect it from rain and moisture. Do not cover the sides, as this will only seal moisture in.

Tips & Warnings

Do not store the wood inside your home as this will attract termites and other insects.

Article Written By Rona Aquino

Rona Aquino began writing professionally in 2008. As an avid marathon runner and outdoor enthusiast, she writes on topics of running, fitness and outdoor recreation for various publications. Aquino holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and English from the University of Maryland College Park.

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