8 Types Of Firewood Storage Racks (& Which Is Best For You?)
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
Storing firewood may seem straightforward enough, but there are also myriad ideas out there to optimize your firewood stash, making it ever more convenient while also keeping wood protected from excess moisture and pests so you stay warm and cozy all season long. Plus, there are lots of common mistakes to avoid when storing your firewood and considerations that will help you determine the best firewood storage solution for you.
First and foremost, firewood must be kept dry. Of course, dry wood burns better, but keeping firewood dry also prevents pests. All sorts of creepy crawlies love to hide in stacked wood, so you should always keep firewood off the ground (indoors or out) as another defense against termites, ants, beetles, rodents, and even snakes who wish to make themselves at home in your wood. This is also why firewood should not be stacked directly against the walls of your house.
Beyond bugs, rotting is the other big threat to your firewood. When storing logs outdoors, covering your stash helps prevent it from getting totally drenched during a rain shower, but full, 360-degree covers are also an option if you're concerned about snow or other extreme weather. Proper wood stacking techniques are also key to keeping logs dry, and airflow is the name of the game. Cross-stack the logs in opposite directions if you have enough room, or just make sure the logs aren't packed too tightly together, allowing for as much ventilation as possible throughout your stack. With all this in mind, here are eight types of firewood storage racks to consider.
Basic metal rack
Firewood racks and metal structures come in all different shapes and sizes. These are suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The shape of the rack is largely an aesthetic choice, so you can select what best fits your space. If you are shopping for an outdoor rack, look for options that include a removable top covering to keep your logs somewhat protected from rain and snow. Prices range by size and style, with plenty of budget options for around $30.
Portable storage carts
If the layout of your property isn't conducive to storing your firewood stash in a convenient location, a portable firewood cart may be a better fit. Many metal firewood racks have caster wheel varieties so you can roll your rack out as needed. If you need a more heavy-duty mobile solution, opt for a firewood cart, which is like a hand truck designed to carry firewood over a longer haul. These carts can handle loads upwards of 250 pounds, and often have extra straps to keep every last log securely in place.
DIY firewood storage bench
A DIY firewood storage bench can turn log storage into chic seating, perfect for inside or outside use. Start with a basic bench design with a shelf underneath to keep firewood off the ground and customize it as you wish. Enclosing the top and short sides of the bench frame will offer extra wood protection, while still allowing for plenty of airflow through the open front and back. Use yours around the firepit or as a place to remove shoes just inside the door. The stored firewood turns a basic bench into a rustic home accent.
No Build DIY rack
If constructing a storage rack is a bridge too far, you can still DIY your own budget-friendly firewood storage solution, no building required. All you need is a cinder block and two long treated wood planks. Stick one plank in each cinderblock hole and let them rest against the block to form a large 'V' shape. Stack your firewood between the planks, and voila! You can also extend this rack by placing additional cinder blocks on the ground and resting wood planks across them, then attaching wood boards to the outermost blocks to form the frame.
Rack+carrier combos
Another answer to an inconvenient storage location, combo racks offer a practical solution when firewood is located far from the fire. The metal racks come with a carrier tote that lines the rack and fabric handles that fit around the rack's metal handles to hold it snugly in place. Stack your firewood on top of the liner, and when it's time to take the logs to the fire, just pick up the carrier handles and bring them together to wrap up the wood.
Stackable firewood cubbies
Firewood cubbies are a popular trend embraced by interior designers, like Joanna Gaines, as an aesthetic way to store firewood. Stackable cubbies are a great option to customize the look, and they're suitable for indoor or outdoor log storage. You can use as many or as few cubbies as you need, and play around with the design based on how many you have. Technically, any sturdy cubby shelving system can store firewood as long as it is deep enough for the logs — though you may want to remove the back to encourage ventilation.
Metal Racks with full covers
If extreme weather is a concern, firewood storage racks with full covers are a great option. The sturdy units are designed to hold plenty of firewood and come with removable covers for protection when you need it. The heavy-duty fabric covers are optimized for weather resistance and will keep your stash protected from rain, snow, wind, and UV rays. Most covers have openable flaps to make stacking and removing firewood a breeze, while also allowing necessary airflow when a full cover isn't necessary. Plus, the covers provide a clean look for your outdoor space.
Firewood station
Ideal for indoors or under a covered patio, firewood rack stations are designed to keep all your fireside supplies organized and at your fingertips. These racks are often smaller and hold fewer logs, but they include extra features like hooks for tools and a separate caddy for kindling. Firewood stations make great additions to the living room fireplace or a patio firepit.