Winter is quickly approaching, which means it’s time to indulge in hot cocoa and warm up in front of the fireplace. Haphazard piles can prevent your firewood from drying out and burning properly. To help you create the optimal arrangement, the guide below outlines the most popular methods of firewood stacking.

How to Effectively Stack Firewood

1. Holz Hausen

Also referred to as the wood house method, this is a fantastic way to stack if you’re looking to consolidate space. This German-style circular pile can hold a lot of wood. Always form it in an area with plenty of sun to ensure efficient drying. Begin by creating a ring-shaped perimeter with your base pieces, split side facing inward. Start laying out firewood along the border. Place pieces bark side up, with one end resting on the ring and the other sloped down to the center of the circle.

Once the first layer is complete, repeat this pattern for the next six layers. The seventh layer should be another ring, much like your ground layer, to add structural support. Repeat the pattern of six sloped layers and one ring twice more, then arrange a tight, conical roof on top. If it rains, this ensures that water drains quickly from your structure.

2. End Pillars

This common method involves creating two supporting stacks of firewood for a pile to rest between. Taking the most even, uniform pieces, lay down three or four next to one another. Stack a second layer with an equal number of pieces perpendicular to the first, packing the pieces tightly. This prevents the weight of the inner pieces from knocking your pillars over.

Repeat this alternating process until you complete the first pillar. Put up your second end pillar in the same way, then fill in the space between with firewood, bark side up. Leave gaps between each inner layer to allow for airflow. Another variation of this method involves building only pillars with all of your firewood.

3. Hammock Span

Often considered the easiest style of firewood stacking, this method requires two trees with enough distance between them to set up a hammock. Choose tall, sturdy trees that can effectively withstand the weight of a stack. These trees take the role of the pillars in the end pillar method, so all you need to do is fill the gap. As you would in the pillar method, stack the pieces perpendicular to the trees with the bark side facing up. This setup leaves both ends of your firewood exposed to promote proper drying, allowing them to burn efficiently in your fireplace.

Find the perfect fireplaces and stoves at Fireplace Creations, LLC, in Buffalo, MN. This family-owned company offers a wide range of competitively priced products from top-quality manufacturers. Whether you need repairs, installations, or maintenance, their experienced technicians will have your fireplace or stove up and running in no time. To schedule a free consultation, call (763) 682-4262. Browse their available products online.