One common question among wood stove owners is whether firewood needs to be covered or not. Properly storing your firewood is essential for efficient, safe, and clean burning. In this article, we will provide clear and concise technical details on the advantages of covering firewood and how to do it right.
Why Cover Firewood?
To understand the technical aspects, let’s delve into the reasons why covering your firewood is vital:
Moisture Control: Wood that is exposed to rain or snow can absorb moisture, increasing its moisture content. High moisture content in firewood makes it harder to ignite, produces more creosote in your stove, and reduces overall heating efficiency.
Pest Prevention: Uncovered wood is an open invitation to pests like termites, ants, and rodents. These pests can infiltrate your firewood stack and potentially find their way into your home.
Mold and Mildew Avoidance: Moisture-laden firewood can promote the growth of mold and mildew. Burning moldy wood can release harmful spores into the air, which can be detrimental to your health.
Longevity: Covered firewood can last longer and maintain its quality. Seasoned wood, which has been properly dried and stored, burns more efficiently and cleanly.
How to Properly Cover Firewood
Here are the technical details for correctly covering your firewood:
Use a Firewood Rack: Elevate your firewood off the ground using a rack or pallet. This helps prevent ground moisture from being absorbed and minimizes contact with pests.
Choose a Waterproof Cover: Select a cover made of durable, waterproof material like a tarp or heavy-duty plastic sheet. Ensure it is large enough to fully protect your firewood stack.
Allow for Air Circulation: While covering your firewood, leave the sides open to promote air circulation. This helps to keep the wood dry and prevents mold and mildew growth.
Slope the Cover: Slope the cover slightly to shed rainwater away from the stack. This prevents water from pooling on top of the wood.
Secure the Cover: Use bungee cords, ropes, or other secure fasteners to hold the cover in place, especially during windy conditions.
Regular Inspection: Periodically check your firewood for signs of moisture, pests, or mold. Remove and replace any affected pieces.
Seasoning Firewood
Properly seasoning firewood is a key technical aspect of ensuring it burns cleanly and efficiently. Here’s how to do it:
Cut and Split Early: Cut and split your firewood well in advance, ideally six months to a year before use. This allows it to dry properly.
Stack Wood for Airflow: Stack the firewood in a single row or crisscross pattern to allow air circulation. Don’t stack it too densely.
Keep it Dry: During the seasoning period, store your wood in a well-ventilated area with protection from rain and snow.
Use a Moisture Meter: A moisture meter can provide precise readings to ensure your wood has reached the recommended moisture content of around 20% or less.
Conclusion
To ensure your wood stove operates efficiently and cleanly, covering your firewood is a technical detail that should not be overlooked. By understanding the reasons behind covering firewood and following the proper storage techniques, you can enjoy the benefits of well-seasoned, dry firewood that will keep your home warm and cozy throughout the winter.