Key Takeaways -

• Keep your log store clean, dry, and well-ventilated to prevent pests and mould.
• Use quality materials and follow a sturdy design plan for a durable log store.
• Regularly treat the wood with weather-resistant sealant or paint.
• Stack logs properly to ensure stability and maintain good airflow.

Building a log store is essential for keeping your firewood dry, organized, and easy to access. Firewood can get wet, but a well-built log store will protect it from the elements.

We will explain why having a log store is important and the benefits of building your own wood store. You'll learn how a DIY log store can save money, fit your needs perfectly, and be a rewarding project.

Read on for a step-by-step guide to planning and building your own garden log store. We'll provide practical tips for ensuring it lasts and protects your firewood well. By the end, you'll know exactly how to build a reliable log store.

Planning Your Log Store

Choosing the Location

When choosing a location for your wood store, consider whether you want it against a wall for added stability or free-standing for flexibility. Ensure the chosen spot has enough space and is easily accessible.

Also, think about how exposed the area is to weather conditions like rain, sun, and wind, as these can impact your firewood's condition. A sheltered spot with good airflow is ideal to keep your wood dry and in good condition.

Design and Dimensions

Determine the size of your log store based on your wood storage needs. Calculate how much wood you need to store by considering your wood-burning habits and how much wood you use regularly.

Plan the design from all angles, including top-down, side, and front views, to ensure it fits well in your chosen space. A well-thought-out design will make your log store more efficient and easier to use.

Measure and Plan

Estimate your wood usage to decide the size of your log store. This helps in gathering the right amount of materials and ensures you have enough space for all your firewood. For a medium-sized log store, aim for dimensions of 1.5 meters wide, 2.5 meters long, and 1.5 meters tall.

This size is practical for most households and provides ample log storage space. Proper planning will make the construction process smoother and the finished log store more effective.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials

To build a sturdy log store, you will need high-quality materials. Use timber, planks, and slats that are kiln-dried and designed for outdoor use. These ensure durability and resistance to weather. For the roof, choose from materials like roofing felt, plastic, or wood to protect your firewood from rain.

Additionally, you'll need gravel or other suitable materials to create a solid foundation that keeps the base of your log store dry and stable. All the materials you use should be water-resistant and treated to prevent rot.

Tools

Gather the essential tools for your project, including a hammer or nail gun, screwdriver, and saw. Accurate measurements are crucial, so have measuring tools on hand. Clamps will help hold pieces in place while you work, and you'll need screws and nails to secure everything together.

Safety is important, so be sure to use goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself during the construction process. These tools and safety equipment will ensure your project goes smoothly and safely.

How to Build a Log Store

Step 1: Building the Frame and Sides

Start by cutting your timber to the required size. Build the front and back frames using 47x100mm tanalised sawn timber. For the sides, use 22x100mm timber. Assemble the rear frame and sides, ensuring they are sturdy and securely connected.

Adding an angled pitch to the roof will allow water to run off efficiently, preventing water from pooling and damaging the wood. Taking the time to secure the frames properly will provide a solid foundation for the rest of the log store.

Step 2: Constructing the Base

Create a sturdy base to support the weight of your firewood. Build the floor structure using 50x47mm timber, ensuring it is level and securely attached to the sides. Add supporting noggins to strengthen the base, spacing them evenly to distribute weight.

This solid foundation will prevent your log store from shifting or sinking over time, keeping your firewood well-protected. A level base also ensures that the structure is stable and safe, preventing potential accidents.

Step 3: Adding the Back Slats

Install the back slats from bottom to top, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This allows for good air circulation, which is essential for keeping your firewood dry. For added stability, consider adding upright battens to support the slats.

This step helps to ensure that your log store is both functional and durable. Properly spaced slats will also help maintain the structural integrity of the log store and improve the airflow, reducing the risk of mould and rot.

Step 4: Creating the Roof and Subframe

Construct a subframe for the roof using 22x100mm timber. Ensure the roof is sloped to allow water runoff. Use feather edge boards for the roof covering, overlapping them to create a watertight seal. This structure will protect your firewood from rain and snow, keeping it dry and ready for use.

The overlapping of the boards is crucial for preventing leaks. A well-built roof will significantly extend the lifespan of your log store and keep your wood in optimal condition.

Step 5: Weather-Proofing

Apply wood treatment solutions like Timbersol or Thorndown Wood Paint to protect the timber from the elements. Apply at least two coats, considering a third for the roof area, as it will be more exposed to rain and sunlight.

Adding covers and tarps can provide extra protection, ensuring your log store remains in excellent condition for years. Regular maintenance, such as reapplying treatments and checking for damage, will keep your log store in top shape and ready to protect your firewood throughout the seasons.

Tips for Effective Wood Storage

Ensuring Air Circulation

Good air circulation is crucial for the proper storage of wood. Ensure there are gaps between the slats of your log store to allow air to flow through. This helps prevent moisture buildup and mould, which can damage your firewood.

Proper ventilation keeps your wood dry and ready to use. Regularly check the slats and make sure they are not blocked by debris to maintain optimal airflow.

Air Circulation

Stack your wood to allow air to circulate between and around the logs. Avoid stacking logs too close to the walls or covering them with tarps, as this can trap moisture. Proper stacking and spacing help maintain good airflow, keeping your firewood in optimal condition.

You can also use a pallet for the base to lift the wood off the ground, further enhancing air circulation and preventing moisture from the ground from affecting the wood (1).

Quick Accessibility

Place your log store close to your house for quick and easy access. This is especially important during winter when you need to fetch wood in cold weather. Having your firewood nearby ensures you can easily keep your home warm and cosy without much hassle.

Consider the convenience of the path to your log store, making sure it is clear and safe to walk, even in adverse weather conditions.

Positioning

Position your log store in a flat, even area that is protected from rain and receives plenty of sunlight. This helps keep the wood dry and prevents water from pooling around the base.

Ensure the log store is easily accessible so you can quickly and conveniently access your firewood whenever needed. An ideal spot might be near a south-facing wall, which can provide extra warmth and help keep the wood dry.

Regularly inspect the area for any potential water drainage issues to ensure long-term protection for your firewood.

Additional Considerations

Planning Permission

Planning permission for a log store is generally not required unless the structure is particularly large or intended for a habitable space. If your log store will be substantial and might infringe on your neighbour's view or encroach on their space, you should check local regulations.

It’s always best to consult your local planning authority to ensure compliance with any building codes or restrictions. This can help you avoid any potential issues or fines that might arise from non-compliance.

Optional Extras

Enhance your log store with optional extras like log store covers and log carrier bags. These additions can provide extra protection for your firewood and make transporting logs more convenient.

Both items are readily available and can significantly improve the functionality of your log store. Investing in these extras can help maintain the quality of your firewood and make the process of using it much easier.

Log Store Cover

A log store cover offers extra protection from the elements, keeping your firewood dry and in good condition. These covers can be ordered online or purchased from local DIY stores. They are available in various sizes to fit different log stores and can be easily installed or removed as needed.

Using a cover can extend the life of your firewood by protecting it from rain, snow, and UV rays, ensuring it remains dry and ready to use.

Log Carrier Bag

A log carrier bag is useful for moving logs from the log shed to your fireplace. These bags come in various sizes, providing a convenient way to transport firewood without making multiple trips.

They are designed to be durable and easy to carry, making them an essential accessory for anyone who frequently uses a wood-burning stove or fireplace.

With a log carrier bag, you can efficiently transport your firewood, keeping your home tidy and reducing the effort needed to keep your fire burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Prevent Pests From Infesting My Log Store?

To prevent pests, keep your log store clean and dry, ensuring good airflow to deter insects and rodents. Use natural deterrents like cedar chips or diatomaceous earth to keep pests away.

Regularly inspect for signs of pests and promptly remove any infested wood to prevent spread. Store only dry, seasoned wood to reduce the risk of infestation.

Are There Easy-to-Follow Log Store Plans I Can Find Online?

Yes, there are many free and easy-to-follow log store plans available online. Websites like DIY blogs, Pinterest, and home improvement sites provide detailed instructions with material lists, measurements, and step-by-step guides.

These plans cater to various skill levels, from beginners to experienced DIY enthusiasts, making it easy to find a plan that suits your needs.

What Should I Do If My Stored Logs Become Damp Or Mouldy?

If your stored logs become damp or mouldy, remove the affected logs immediately to prevent further contamination. Allow the damp logs to dry out in a well-ventilated, sunny area.

Clean the log store thoroughly to remove any mould spores and improve airflow to prevent future issues. Consider adding a cover or improving ventilation to keep the wood dry.

What Other Garden Structures Can I Use To Store Logs?

Other suitable garden structures for storing logs include sheds, garages, lean-tos, and covered patios or pergolas. Ensure these structures have good airflow and are dry to keep the firewood in good condition.

Proper protection from the elements is crucial to maintain the quality of your wood. Choose a location that offers both shelter and accessibility.

Can I Build A Log Store On A Slope?

Yes, you can build a log store on a slope by ensuring the base is level. You may need to dig out part of the slope or construct a raised foundation to create a stable, level base.

Using sturdy materials and proper levelling techniques will help create a stable structure that prevents shifting or sinking over time.

How Often Should I Treat The Wood Of My Log Store?

Treat the wood of your log store annually with a weather-resistant sealant or paint to protect it from the elements. Regularly inspect the wood for signs of wear, damage, or weathering.

Reapply treatment as needed, especially after harsh weather conditions, to ensure the wood remains protected and durable over time.

What Is The Best Way To Stack Logs In The Store?

Stack logs loosely to allow air circulation, which helps keep them dry and prevents mould growth. Place larger logs at the bottom and smaller ones on top to ensure stability.

Stack logs in alternating directions to create a stable pile and avoid stacking too high to prevent toppling. Proper stacking helps maintain good airflow and makes it easier to access the logs.

Conclusion

Building and maintaining an outdoor log store is essential for keeping your firewood dry, organized, and easily accessible. By following proper planning, using quality materials, and ensuring good airflow, you can prevent issues like pests and mould.

Regular maintenance and thoughtful positioning will extend the life of your log store and keep your firewood in optimal condition. With the right approach, your DIY log store can be a durable and efficient addition to your outdoor space.

Sources -

1. https://www.littlehouseonthecorner.com/build-a-log-store/