Burning wood efficiently in your wood stove starts with the way you stack your firewood. Properly stacked cord wood not only ensures a longer burn time but also reduces the amount of creosote buildup in your stove’s chimney. In this guide, we’ll show you the steps to stack cord wood effectively, optimizing the heating process and minimizing maintenance.
What Is Cord Wood?
Cord wood is a standardized measure of firewood. A full cord is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. It typically contains wood split into 16-inch lengths. However, many people use "face cords," which are smaller stacks, often measuring 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and as wide as the length of the individual logs. Regardless of the cord’s size, the way you stack the wood remains the same.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Select a suitable location to stack your cord wood. It should be well-ventilated and protected from rain and snow. A dry, covered area like a woodshed or garage is ideal. This helps keep your firewood dry, making it easier to light and reducing the risk of mold or rot.
Step 2: Create a Base
Start by laying a foundation or base for your stack. This prevents the wood from touching the ground and absorbing moisture. Use pallets, pressure-treated lumber, or even a layer of gravel or crushed stone.
Step 3: Stack Logs Neatly
Place the logs in rows, making sure they are as level as possible. Start with the largest logs on the bottom and work your way up to the smaller pieces. This creates a stable foundation for your woodpile.
Step 4: Stack Wood Tightly
When stacking your cord wood, pack the logs tightly together. This minimizes the air gaps within the stack, which can reduce airflow and make it harder to ignite the wood. A tightly packed stack promotes better combustion when you use the wood in your stove.
Step 5: Allow for Airflow
Ensure there’s some space between the logs on the outer edges of your stack. This allows air to circulate through the pile, helping to keep the wood dry and promoting drying if it’s not already seasoned.
Step 6: Cover the Top
To protect your wood from rain and snow, cover the top of your stack with a tarp or woodpile cover. This will keep your firewood dry and ready for use. Make sure the cover extends over the edges of the stack to prevent moisture from seeping in from the sides.
Step 7: Practice First-In, First-Out (FIFO)
When you go to retrieve wood for your stove, follow the "first-in, first-out" principle. Take logs from the top and front of the stack to ensure you’re using the oldest wood first. This keeps your woodpile well-organized and maintains the proper drying process.
Conclusion
Properly stacking cord wood is the foundation of efficient wood stove operation. It ensures a steady supply of dry wood, minimizes creosote buildup, and helps you get the most out of your wood-burning stove. By following these steps, you can maintain a well-organized and functional woodpile for a cozy and warm home during the colder months.