Firewood Cover DIY Tips (5 Pro Hacks for Perfect Wood Storage)

After all, what’s the point of meticulously splitting and stacking wood if it’s going to rot before you can even use it? That’s why a good firewood cover is absolutely essential. I’ve spent years working with wood, from felling trees in the Pacific Northwest to managing my own small firewood business here in upstate New York. Through it all, I’ve learned that proper storage is just as important as the quality of the wood itself. In this article, I’ll share five pro hacks for building your own DIY firewood cover, helping you protect your investment and ensure you have dry, ready-to-burn wood all winter long. We will also dive deep into the costs associated with these projects. Let’s get started!

Why Cover Your Firewood? The Cost of Neglect

Before we dive into the DIY aspect, let’s address the elephant in the woodpile: why bother covering your firewood in the first place? The answer, simply put, is to prevent rot and ensure efficient burning.

The Science Behind Dry Firewood

Wood that’s properly seasoned (dried) burns hotter, cleaner, and produces significantly less smoke. Green wood, on the other hand, is a pain. It’s hard to light, smolders instead of burns, and creates creosote buildup in your chimney, which is a major fire hazard.

• Moisture Content Matters: Freshly cut wood can have a moisture content of 50% or higher. Ideally, you want firewood to be below 20% moisture content for optimal burning.
• Drying Time: Depending on the climate, wood species, and how it’s stacked, it can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year to properly season firewood.

The Cost of Rot and Decay

Leaving your firewood exposed to the elements – rain, snow, sun – leads to several problems that ultimately translate into wasted money.

• Reduced BTU Output: Wet wood contains a significant amount of water, which must be evaporated before the wood can actually burn. This process consumes energy, reducing the overall heat output (BTUs) of your firewood.
• Increased Smoke and Creosote: Burning wet wood produces a lot of smoke, which is not only unpleasant but also leads to increased creosote buildup in your chimney. Creosote is a highly flammable substance that can cause chimney fires. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), chimney fires are a leading cause of residential fires in the United States. Regular chimney cleaning, costing anywhere from $150 to $300, becomes even more crucial with wet firewood.
• Wood Rot and Decay: Constant exposure to moisture promotes fungal growth and wood rot. This weakens the wood, making it more difficult to split and burn. Over time, the wood becomes unusable.
• Pest Infestation: Damp firewood is an ideal breeding ground for insects like termites, carpenter ants, and beetles. These pests can then spread to your home, causing significant damage. Pest control services can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

The Financial Impact: A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario to illustrate the financial impact of neglecting your firewood.

• Scenario: You purchase 4 cords of firewood at $300 per cord, totaling $1200.
• Neglect: You leave the firewood uncovered and exposed to the elements.
• Consequences:
  • Reduced BTU Output: Wet wood reduces heat output by approximately 25%. This means you essentially lose 1 cord worth of heat, costing you $300.
  • Increased Chimney Cleaning: You need to clean your chimney twice as often due to increased creosote buildup, adding an extra $150 – $300 per year.
  • Wood Rot: 10% of your firewood rots and becomes unusable, costing you $120.

Total Estimated Loss: $570 – $720

As you can see, the cost of neglecting your firewood can be significant. Investing in a good firewood cover, whether you build it yourself or purchase one, is a worthwhile investment that will save you money in the long run.

Pro Hack #1: The Lean-To: Simple, Affordable, and Effective

The lean-to is a classic design for a reason. It’s simple to build, relatively inexpensive, and provides excellent protection from the elements. It’s a great option if you have a wall or fence you can use as a support.

Materials and Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to build a basic lean-to firewood cover:

• Lumber:
  • 4×4 pressure-treated posts (length depends on desired height and depth of the lean-to)
  • 2×4 lumber for framing
  • 1×4 lumber for bracing (optional)
• Roofing Material:
  • Corrugated metal roofing sheets (or asphalt shingles, depending on your preference)
  • Roofing screws or nails
• Fasteners:
  • Deck screws (various sizes)
  • Construction adhesive (optional)
• Tools:
  • Circular saw or hand saw
  • Drill/driver
  • Level
  • Tape measure
  • Hammer (if using asphalt shingles)
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

Construction Steps

1. Planning and Layout: Determine the desired size of your lean-to. Consider the amount of firewood you need to store and the available space. Mark the location of the posts.
2. Post Installation: Dig holes for the posts, ensuring they are deep enough to provide adequate support (at least 2 feet). Set the posts in the holes and backfill with concrete for added stability.
3. Framing: Attach the 2×4 lumber to the posts to create the frame of the lean-to. Ensure the frame is level and square.
4. Roofing Installation: Attach the corrugated metal roofing sheets (or asphalt shingles) to the frame, overlapping the edges to prevent leaks. Secure the roofing material with roofing screws or nails.
5. Bracing (Optional): Add 1×4 lumber to the frame for added bracing and stability.

Cost Breakdown: Building a Lean-To

Let’s break down the costs associated with building a lean-to firewood cover. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your location, the quality of materials, and whether you already own some of the tools.

Labor Costs:

If you decide to hire a contractor to build your lean-to, labor costs can add a significant amount to the total project cost. Labor rates vary depending on your location and the experience of the contractor.

• Average Hourly Rate: $50 – $100 per hour
• Estimated Labor Time: 8 – 16 hours
• Total Estimated Labor Cost: $400 – $1600

Permits:

In some areas, you may need to obtain a building permit before constructing a lean-to. Check with your local building department to determine if a permit is required. Permit fees can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

Cost Optimization Tips for the Lean-To

• Repurpose Materials: Look for used lumber or roofing materials that you can repurpose.
• Source Lumber Locally: Local sawmills often offer lumber at lower prices than big box stores.
• DIY as Much as Possible: Save money on labor costs by doing as much of the work yourself as possible.
• Shop Around: Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals on materials.
• Consider a Smaller Size: A smaller lean-to will require less materials and labor, reducing the overall cost.

Personal Experience with the Lean-To

I built a lean-to firewood cover against the side of my garage several years ago, and it’s been a lifesaver. I used pressure-treated lumber for the posts and framing, and corrugated metal roofing for the roof. The total cost was around $350, and it took me about a weekend to complete. The lean-to has kept my firewood dry and protected from the elements, and I haven’t had any issues with rot or pests.

Pro Hack #2: The Freestanding Shed: Ultimate Protection, Greater Investment

For those seeking maximum protection and a more permanent solution, a freestanding firewood shed is the way to go. This option offers superior weather resistance and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Materials and Tools

The materials and tools required for a freestanding shed are similar to those for a lean-to, but with a few additions:

• Lumber:
  • 4×4 pressure-treated posts
  • 2×4 lumber for framing
  • 1×4 lumber for bracing
  • Plywood or OSB for sheathing (optional, but recommended for added weather resistance)
• Roofing Material:
  • Corrugated metal roofing sheets (or asphalt shingles)
• Fasteners:
  • Deck screws (various sizes)
  • Construction adhesive (optional)
• Tools:
  • Circular saw or hand saw
  • Drill/driver
  • Level
  • Tape measure
  • Hammer (if using asphalt shingles)
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves
  • Post hole digger
  • Concrete mix

Construction Steps

1. Planning and Layout: Determine the desired size and location of your firewood shed. Consider the amount of firewood you need to store and the available space. Mark the location of the posts.
2. Post Installation: Dig holes for the posts, ensuring they are deep enough to provide adequate support (at least 2 feet). Set the posts in the holes and backfill with concrete for added stability.
3. Framing: Attach the 2×4 lumber to the posts to create the frame of the shed. Ensure the frame is level and square.
4. Sheathing (Optional): Attach plywood or OSB to the frame for added weather resistance.
5. Roofing Installation: Attach the corrugated metal roofing sheets (or asphalt shingles) to the frame, overlapping the edges to prevent leaks. Secure the roofing material with roofing screws or nails.
6. Bracing (Optional): Add 1×4 lumber to the frame for added bracing and stability.

Cost Breakdown: Building a Freestanding Shed

Building a freestanding shed will be more expensive than building a lean-to, due to the additional materials and labor required.

Labor Costs:

Hiring a contractor to build a freestanding shed can significantly increase the total project cost.

• Average Hourly Rate: $50 – $100 per hour
• Estimated Labor Time: 16 – 40 hours
• Total Estimated Labor Cost: $800 – $4000

Permits:

You will likely need to obtain a building permit before constructing a freestanding shed. Check with your local building department to determine the specific requirements and fees.

Cost Optimization Tips for the Freestanding Shed

• Consider a Smaller Size: A smaller shed will require less materials and labor, reducing the overall cost.
• Repurpose Materials: Look for used lumber or roofing materials that you can repurpose.
• Source Lumber Locally: Local sawmills often offer lumber at lower prices than big box stores.
• DIY as Much as Possible: Save money on labor costs by doing as much of the work yourself as possible.
• Shop Around: Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals on materials.
• Skip the Sheathing: If you live in a relatively dry climate, you may be able to skip the sheathing to save money on materials.

Personal Experience with the Freestanding Shed

I helped a friend build a freestanding firewood shed in his backyard last year. We used pressure-treated lumber for the posts and framing, plywood for the sheathing, and asphalt shingles for the roof. The total cost was around $1200, and it took us about a week to complete. The shed has provided excellent protection for his firewood, and he’s been very happy with the results.

Pro Hack #3: The Pallet Structure: Budget-Friendly and Eco-Conscious

If you’re on a tight budget or looking for an eco-friendly option, consider building a firewood cover using pallets. Pallets are often available for free or at a very low cost, and they can be easily assembled to create a simple and effective storage solution.

Materials and Tools

• Pallets: The number of pallets you need will depend on the desired size of your firewood cover.
• Lumber:
  • 2×4 lumber for framing (optional, but recommended for added stability)
• Roofing Material:
  • Tarp
  • Corrugated plastic roofing sheets (optional)
• Fasteners:
  • Deck screws
• Tools:
  • Drill/driver
  • Saw (for cutting pallets if necessary)
  • Tape measure
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

Construction Steps

1. Pallet Preparation: Inspect the pallets for any damage or loose nails. Repair or replace any damaged pallets.
2. Assembly: Arrange the pallets to create the desired shape and size of your firewood cover. Secure the pallets together using deck screws.
3. Framing (Optional): Add 2×4 lumber to the top of the pallets for added stability.
4. Roofing Installation: Cover the top of the pallet structure with a tarp or corrugated plastic roofing sheets. Secure the roofing material with screws or nails.

Cost Breakdown: Building a Pallet Structure

Building a firewood cover using pallets is the most budget-friendly option.

Labor Costs:

Building a pallet structure is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. Labor costs will be minimal if you do it yourself.

• Average Hourly Rate: $50 – $100 per hour
• Estimated Labor Time: 2 – 4 hours
• Total Estimated Labor Cost: $100 – $400

Permits:

You likely will not need a building permit to construct a pallet structure, as it is considered a temporary structure. However, it’s always best to check with your local building department to be sure.

Cost Optimization Tips for the Pallet Structure

• Source Free Pallets: Look for free pallets from local businesses.
• Use a Tarp for Roofing: A tarp is the most affordable option for roofing.
• Skip the Framing: If you’re using sturdy pallets, you may be able to skip the framing to save money on materials.
• DIY as Much as Possible: Save money on labor costs by doing all of the work yourself.

Personal Experience with the Pallet Structure

I’ve used pallet structures for firewood storage in the past, and they’ve worked well for me. I was able to source free pallets from a local grocery store, and I used a tarp for roofing. The total cost was less than $50, and it took me about an afternoon to complete. The pallet structure kept my firewood dry and protected from the elements, and it was a great way to recycle materials.

Pro Hack #4: The Hoop House: Economical and Adaptable

A hoop house, also known as a greenhouse or polytunnel, offers a unique and versatile solution for firewood storage. It’s an economical option that provides excellent protection from the elements and can be easily adapted to different sizes and shapes.

Materials and Tools

• PVC Pipe or Metal Conduit: For the hoops
• Heavy-Duty Polyethylene Sheeting: For the cover
• Lumber:
  • 2×4 lumber for baseboards (optional)
• Fasteners:
  • Clamps or zip ties
  • Screws or nails (if using baseboards)
• Tools:
  • Drill/driver
  • Saw (for cutting PVC pipe or metal conduit)
  • Tape measure
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

Construction Steps

1. Hoop Installation: Drive metal stakes into the ground at regular intervals to serve as anchors for the hoops. Bend the PVC pipe or metal conduit into a hoop shape and insert the ends into the stakes.
2. Baseboards (Optional): Attach 2×4 lumber to the ground around the perimeter of the hoop house to create baseboards. This will provide added stability and help to secure the polyethylene sheeting.
3. Polyethylene Sheeting Installation: Drape the heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting over the hoops, ensuring that it is taut and wrinkle-free. Secure the sheeting to the hoops using clamps or zip ties. If using baseboards, secure the sheeting to the baseboards using screws or nails.

Cost Breakdown: Building a Hoop House

Building a hoop house is a relatively affordable option for firewood storage.

Labor Costs:

Building a hoop house is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. Labor costs will be minimal if you do it yourself.

• Average Hourly Rate: $50 – $100 per hour
• Estimated Labor Time: 2 – 4 hours
• Total Estimated Labor Cost: $100 – $400

Permits:

You likely will not need a building permit to construct a hoop house, as it is considered a temporary structure. However, it’s always best to check with your local building department to be sure.

Cost Optimization Tips for the Hoop House

• Use PVC Pipe: PVC pipe is generally less expensive than metal conduit.
• Source Materials Locally: Local hardware stores or farm supply stores often offer better prices than big box stores.
• DIY as Much as Possible: Save money on labor costs by doing all of the work yourself.
• Consider a Smaller Size: A smaller hoop house will require less materials and labor, reducing the overall cost.

Personal Experience with the Hoop House

I’ve seen hoop houses used effectively for firewood storage in rural areas. They provide excellent protection from the elements, and they can be easily moved if necessary. I haven’t built one myself, but I’m considering it for my own firewood storage needs.

Pro Hack #5: The Tarp and Stack Method: The Simplest, Most Temporary Solution

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. If you’re short on time or resources, you can simply cover your firewood with a tarp. While this method isn’t as effective as a dedicated firewood cover, it’s a quick and easy way to provide some protection from the elements.

Materials and Tools

• Tarp: Choose a heavy-duty tarp that is waterproof and UV-resistant.
• Rope or Bungee Cords: For securing the tarp.

Steps

1. Stacking: Stack the firewood neatly in a pile.
2. Tarping: Drape the tarp over the firewood pile, ensuring that it covers the entire pile.
3. Securing: Secure the tarp to the ground using rope or bungee cords.

Cost Breakdown: The Tarp and Stack Method

This is the most affordable method for covering firewood.

| Material | Estimated Cost | Notes

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