Learning how to stack firewood in order to create a well-built stack does more than just look neat beside a cabin or along a backyard fence. It’s the difference between seasoned wood that burns clean and smoky logs that waste energy and invite problems. When firewood is stacked the right way, it dries faster, stays cleaner, and resists pests and mold. It also becomes easier to grab what you need when the temperatures drop and you’re scrambling for warmth.

Whether you’re a new homeowner trying to prep for your first winter or someone who’s been splitting wood for decades, stacking wood isn’t just a chore—it’s a skill that pays off in every crackle and flame.

Picking the Right Spot

Choosing where to stack your firewood sets the tone for the rest of the process. Ideally, your stack should sit somewhere that gets ample sunlight and has good air circulation. Both of these help draw moisture from the wood and speed up the seasoning process. Avoid areas with standing water or poor drainage; wet ground is one of the fastest ways to ruin a stack.

If you’re stacking wood outdoors, position it so that wind can pass through it freely, and place it a few inches away from walls or fences to reduce trapped moisture. For indoor stacking—typically only for seasoned wood—ventilation becomes even more critical to avoid musty buildup or fire hazards.

Keep It Off the Ground

One of the golden rules of firewood stacking: never build your pile directly on the soil. Ground moisture can seep up and rot even the hardest hardwoods from the bottom up. It also invites bugs and critters looking for a cozy, damp home.

Instead, start with a stable, raised base. Wood pallets are a popular and inexpensive choice, offering just enough elevation for airflow. Concrete blocks work well too, especially if you want something more permanent. And if aesthetics matter or you’re looking for convenience, a purpose-built firewood rack adds structure and tidiness.

Techniques That Work

There’s no single best way to stack firewood, but a few tried-and-true methods have stood the test of time.

Traditional rows—simple, straight, and uniform—are the easiest place to start. Line up your logs bark side up, making sure each layer is as level as possible. This method offers good airflow and is easy to adjust as the pile grows or shrinks.

For more stability, especially at the ends of a stack, many swear by a criss-cross method known as the Norwegian style. Here, logs are alternated perpendicularly at the ends of the stack, creating a self-supporting structure that prevents collapse and adds a rustic touch.

If you’ve got the space and enjoy a little showmanship, the circular Holz Hausen method (also called a round stack) is both eye-catching and effective. It allows air to circulate through the center and keeps the outer logs tightly packed. This technique takes more effort up front but rewards with excellent drying and visual appeal. You’ll find helpful tools and options on our firewood stacking gear page.

Don’t Stack Too High

It’s tempting to build your stack tall and proud, but there’s a limit—both for airflow and safety. Most experts recommend staying under five feet high unless your stack is against a wall or inside a rack with side support. Anything taller risks wobbling or toppling over, especially as the logs settle.

Think of your stack like a good loaf of bread: it needs room to breathe. Keep stacks a few inches apart from each other if you’re building multiple rows. This allows wind to flow between them and helps avoid those dreaded damp pockets in the center.

Covering the Stack (But Not Too Much)

Rain, snow, and morning dew can undo all your careful stacking if your firewood isn’t properly covered. But here’s the key: only the top of your stack should be protected. Covering the sides traps moisture and cuts off airflow—two things you want to avoid.

A heavy-duty tarp will do the trick, especially if it’s tied down just enough to resist wind but still allows air underneath. If you’re looking for something longer-lasting, consider investing in a fitted firewood cover made specifically for racks. These are designed to balance protection and ventilation—a win-win in any season.

Restack When Needed

Sometimes, even a well-constructed stack needs a little attention. If you notice certain sections staying damp or growing mold, it’s time to reshuffle. Moving wood around might feel tedious, but it can prevent a whole pile from going bad.

Restacking can also help if your wood was split recently and needs better airflow for seasoning. Flip the damper logs to the sunniest side or space things out a little more. A quick restack in the shoulder season—spring or early fall—can dramatically improve your drying timeline.

Season by Season

Winter stacking is its own beast. The ground can freeze, snow piles up, and everything takes longer to dry. If you’re stacking in cold months, try to find a wind-protected, sunny spot, and make sure your base can handle extra weight from snow.

On the flip side, summer or dry-season stacking offers faster drying times and easier conditions. Just remember that quick drying can also lead to cracks and splits, so balance sun exposure with careful stacking and spacing.

Ready to Get Started?

When you’re set to build your perfect stack, make sure you’re equipped with a rack or cover that works for your space and wood type. Browse our selection of top-rated firewood racks and covers to find the setup that suits your style and storage needs.

Or, for a broader overview of long-term wood care, head back to our Storing and Seasoning Firewood guide for deeper insights.