Not all firewood stacking methods get the same results. Do you know how to stack firewood so it seasons, or dries, a whole lot faster?

If not, watch this video for the best technique.

Most people place firewood in one row, all the way across, and they work their way up with the same pattern. Now, there’s nothing particularly wrong with that method.

But if you want to know how to stack firewood so it’s as ready as it’s going to be for burning in your fireplace, then you’ll need to learn some new tricks.

You should stack the wood in alternating courses — that is, in opposite directions, row by row — and you continue that pattern. This way, there’s much more space for the air to circulate. 

Now, what’s wrong with that first stacking method?

Well, if all the firewood is stacked in one direction, it’s hard for the air to get through, and you’ll want fresh-cut firewood to season at least six to nine months. Maybe longer if the wood is really green — that is, really wet.

That’s all there is to it! Just change the firewood’s direction and you can completely change how fast it seasons.

If you know someone who should learn how to stack firewood for the best results, please share this article with them!

Watch the video above to find out more.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Joe Truini

Joe Truini

Radio Show Co-Host

Joe Truini is a contractor, author, and the host of “Simple Solutions” on Today’s Homeowner TV and the weekly Today’s Homeowner radio show. He has worked on both large commercial projects and residential remodeling, and has written for national publications such as This Old House and Popular Mechanics. He has also written eight books, including three best-selling shed-building books. Joe lives in Connecticut with his family and enjoys hiking, traveling, and baseball in his spare time.

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