How to Calculate Firewood Storage: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Calculate Firewood Storage: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you use a fireplace or wood stove, storing enough firewood that is ready to go is important. For this, you need to properly calculate your firewood storage to make sure you have enough wood to last through the winter. This guide will help you to calculate firewood storage and choose the right firewood rack size.

6 Steps to Calculate Firewood Storage

Step 1: Determine Your Firewood Needs

First, estimate how much firewood you will need for the season. This depends on several factors:

  • Climate: Colder regions require more wood.
  • Home Size: Larger homes need more heating.
  • Frequency of Use: How often you use your fireplace or stove.

On average, a medium-sized home in a cold climate might use around 4-6 cords of wood per winter. A cord is a standard unit of measurement for firewood, equivalent to 128 cubic feet (4 feet high x 4 feet wide x 8 feet long).

Step 2: Measure the Available Storage Space

Next, measure the area where you plan to store your firewood. This could be a shed, garage, or a designated outdoor space. Make sure the storage area is accessible and protected from moisture and dust. Write down the dimensions (length, width, height) in feet.

Step 3: Calculate the Volume of Your Storage Space

Multiply the dimensions (length x width x height) to find the total volume of your storage area in cubic feet. For example, if your storage space is 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 6 feet high:

Volume = 8 feet × 4 feet × 6 feet = 192 cubic feet

Step 4: Convert Storage Volume to Cords

Since 1 cord of firewood is 128 cubic feet, divide your storage space volume by 128 to find out how many cords of wood you can store.

Cords = 192 cubic feet / 128 cubic feet per cord ​= 1.5 cords

So, your storage area can hold approximately 1.5 cords of wood.

Step 5: Choose the Right Firewood Rack Size

A firewood rack helps keep your wood off the ground and organized. To find the right size rack, consider the following:

  • Measure Your Wood Logs: Standard firewood logs are typically 16 inches long. Measure the length of your logs to ensure they fit the rack.
  • Determine Rack Volume: Based on your firewood storage calculation, decide how much wood you want the rack to hold. For example, if you want the rack to hold 1 cord of wood:

Since 1 cord is 128 cubic feet, and firewood logs are often 16 inches (1.33 feet) long, the rack's volume should match the cord size.

Rack Dimensions: To hold 1 cord of wood, the rack dimensions should be around:

Length × Width × Height = 8 feet × 4 feet × 4 feet

However, for practical reasons, many racks are designed to hold smaller amounts (e.g., ¼ cord or ½ cord). Adjust the dimensions accordingly.

Step 6: Organize and Stack Your Firewood

When stacking your firewood:

  • Place the rack in a sunny, dry area.
  • Stack wood with the cut ends exposed to air for better drying.
  • Keep the stack stable to prevent collapse.

A Few Recommended Firewood Racks to Consider:

1. The Woodhaven 6ft Courtyard Firewood Rack

Upgrade your firewood storage with the Woodhaven® 6ft Courtyard Firewood Rack, proudly made in the USA from durable American steel. This unique, hand-crafted firewood rack features three spacious storage areas, ensuring your firewood is neatly organized and easily accessible.

2. The Woodhaven Corner Extension Kit

Easily access firewood from two sides with the 4’ Woodhaven Corner Extension Kit, designed to wrap around corners and fit any 4’-16’ Woodhaven Firewood Rack. This kit is made from sturdy 16 gauge steel with a black powder-coated finish, ensuring durability and easy assembly. Upgrade your firewood storage today!

3. The Woodhaven 10ft Firewood Rack

Introducing the Woodhaven 10ft Courtyard Firewood Rack, crafted from 16-gauge heavy-duty US steel, and designed to hold over half a cord of 24" log splits. With its robust build and compact dimensions, this rack ensures your firewood stays neatly stacked and dry. Order now!

Quick Tips:

  • Buy Wood Early: Purchase your firewood early to ensure it has time to dry.
  • Cover the Top: Use a tarp to cover the top of your stack, leaving the sides open for ventilation. You can also buy “Firewood Covers with Zipper Closures” to cover your firewood storage.
  • Check Local Regulations: Some areas have rules about firewood storage, so check local guidelines.

Follow this guide and be well-prepared for the colder months with a well-organized and sufficient firewood supply.

Conclusion

Properly calculating your firewood storage and choosing the right rack size ensures you have enough wood to stay warm all winter. You can efficiently store and use your firewood by measuring your storage space, understanding your firewood needs, and purchasing a suitable rack

Visit our website “Firewood Racks” to explore our huge selection of firewood racks, covers, and all the accessories required for firewood storage. Our products are made of high-quality materials that are durable and extremely useful.

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