When a firewood stack is unexpectedly exposed to rain, the seasoned wood absorbs surface moisture that must be released before burning. Burning wood with high moisture content wastes heat energy on evaporating water, resulting in a cooler fire, excessive smoke, and a higher risk of creosote buildup. The immediate goal after a downpour is to prevent this surface moisture from seeping deeper into the wood’s structure, which slows the drying process considerably.
Immediate Action After Rain Exposure
The first action after a rain event is to move the soaked wood to a covered location as quickly as possible. This shelter, whether a woodshed, garage, or temporary tarp structure, halts further water absorption from the environment. Allowing the wood to remain exposed means the surface moisture will continue to drive itself deeper into the wood fibers through capillary action.
Once sheltered, the wood must be separated from any existing dry stock to prevent moisture transfer, as wet pieces can cause seasoned logs to wick up external moisture. The wet wood should also be immediately elevated off the ground using temporary supports like scrap lumber, bricks, or pallets. This elevation stops the wood from drawing dampness from the soil while the surface moisture evaporates.
Techniques for Rapidly Accelerating Drying
To rapidly remove the surface water, the focus shifts to maximizing airflow around every piece of wood. A simple, dense stack is counterproductive, as it traps moisture and slows evaporation. Instead, adopt a cross-stacking method by alternating the direction of the logs in subsequent rows, which creates small “chimneys” and gaps. This technique allows wind to penetrate the entire stack, pulling moisture out of the wood’s exterior.
Environmental factors can further accelerate the process, especially if the wood is sheltered but outdoors. Positioning the drying stack to catch the afternoon sun, such as facing the exposed ends west, provides a thermal boost to aid evaporation. Introducing supplemental airflow with a box fan, directed to blow across the wet wood in a covered area, can significantly reduce drying time from weeks to just a few days.
Determining When Firewood Is Ready to Burn
The wood is ready to burn when its moisture content is below 20% for optimal performance. The most accurate method involves using a handheld moisture meter, which is inserted into the wood’s split face to give a precise percentage reading. For the most reliable result, the meter pins should penetrate at least three-quarters of an inch deep.
There are also several practical, low-cost tests that can indicate dryness. One reliable test is the sound check: when two pieces of wood are struck together, dry wood will make a sharp, hollow clink or ring, while wet wood produces a dull, muted thud. Another quick check is the soap test: applying liquid soap to one end of a log and blowing hard through the other end will produce bubbles if the wood is sufficiently dry to allow air to pass through its internal channels.
Methods for Long-Term Protection and Storage
Preventing future rain damage requires establishing a permanent storage setup that manages moisture effectively. Firewood should always be stored on an elevated base, such as dedicated metal racks or wooden pallets, to create a barrier against ground moisture and promote air circulation underneath the stack. This foundation ensures the lowest layer remains dry, preventing rot and mold.
The storage area needs to be covered on top, typically with a rigid roof or a tarp secured only over the top surface, to shield the wood from rain and snow. The sides of the stack must be left completely exposed to allow wind to continuously move through the pile. Furthermore, the stack should be positioned with a slight gap between the wood and any solid structure, like a wall or fence, to guarantee uninterrupted ventilation.