Firewood Rack Concrete Blocks (3 Pro Tips For Durable DIY Storage)

I’ve always found that one of the biggest challenges in managing firewood is simply keeping it organized and dry. I remember my first attempt at storing firewood – a haphazard pile against the side of my house. It was a disaster! The wood absorbed moisture from the ground, became infested with bugs, and was generally unusable when winter rolled around. That experience taught me the hard way the importance of proper firewood storage. Now, I’m going to share my best tips for building a durable and effective firewood rack using concrete blocks. This isn’t just about stacking wood; it’s about preserving its quality and ensuring you have a reliable heat source when you need it most.

Firewood Rack Concrete Blocks: 3 Pro Tips for Durable DIY Storage

Firewood is a crucial resource for many, providing warmth, fuel for cooking, and ambiance. But improperly stored firewood quickly degrades, losing its heating value and becoming a breeding ground for pests. A well-built firewood rack, elevated off the ground and allowing for air circulation, is essential for proper seasoning and storage. Concrete blocks offer an affordable, durable, and readily available material for creating such a rack. In this guide, I’ll walk you through three pro tips for building a firewood rack using concrete blocks that will stand the test of time and weather.

Key Concepts: Understanding Firewood

Before diving into the construction, let’s clarify some essential concepts:

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood with high moisture content (often exceeding 50%). Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has been dried to a moisture content of 20% or less. Burning green wood is inefficient, produces more smoke, and can lead to creosote buildup in your chimney, increasing the risk of chimney fires.
Seasoning: The process of drying firewood. This involves stacking the wood in a way that allows for good air circulation, typically for 6-12 months, depending on the wood species and climate.
BTU (British Thermal Unit): A measure of the heat content of fuel. Different wood species have different BTU ratings. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and beech generally have higher BTU ratings than softwoods like pine and fir, meaning they produce more heat when burned.
Cord: A standard unit of measurement for firewood, defined as a stack of wood 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet.

Why Concrete Blocks?

I’ve experimented with various firewood storage solutions, from simple wooden frames to elaborate sheds. Concrete blocks consistently come out on top for several reasons:

Durability: Concrete is incredibly resistant to weather, rot, and insects. A concrete block firewood rack will last for years, even in harsh climates.
Cost-Effectiveness: Concrete blocks are relatively inexpensive compared to other building materials like lumber.
Ease of Construction: Building a concrete block firewood rack requires minimal tools and skills. It’s a project that most DIYers can easily tackle.
Stability: The weight of the concrete blocks provides a stable base for the firewood, preventing the stack from collapsing.

Now, let’s get into the pro tips for building your firewood rack.

Pro Tip 1: Planning and Foundation – Setting the Stage for Success

The foundation is key. A level, stable base is critical for the longevity and stability of your firewood rack. I’ve seen racks built on uneven ground collapse after a few months, rendering the firewood useless.

1.1 Site Selection: Location, Location, Location

Accessibility: Choose a location that is easily accessible, especially during winter when snow and ice may be present. Consider the distance from your wood-burning appliance to minimize carrying distance.
Sunlight and Wind: Select a spot that receives plenty of sunlight and is exposed to wind. These elements promote drying and prevent moisture buildup. Avoid placing the rack in a shaded, damp area.
Drainage: Ensure the site has good drainage to prevent water from pooling around the base of the rack. A slight slope is ideal.
Distance from Structures: Keep the rack at least 10 feet away from your house and other structures to minimize the risk of fire. Check your local building codes for specific requirements.

1.2 Foundation Preparation: Leveling the Playing Field

Clearing the Area: Remove any vegetation, rocks, and debris from the site.
Leveling: Use a shovel and level to create a level surface. This is crucial for preventing the rack from leaning or collapsing.
Gravel Base (Optional): For added drainage and stability, consider adding a layer of gravel (approximately 4-6 inches deep) to the base. Compact the gravel using a tamper. This is especially important in areas with heavy rainfall or poor soil drainage. I’ve found that a gravel base extends the life of the concrete blocks by preventing them from direct contact with damp soil.
Concrete Pavers (Optional): Place concrete pavers under each concrete block to further improve stability and prevent the blocks from sinking into the ground.

1.3 Rack Dimensions: Sizing it Right

Length: Determine the desired length of the rack based on the amount of firewood you plan to store. A standard cord of firewood requires a rack approximately 8 feet long. I typically build racks in 4-foot or 8-foot sections, allowing for flexibility in storage capacity.
Height: The height of the rack is typically determined by the number of concrete blocks stacked vertically. I recommend a height of 2-3 blocks (approximately 16-24 inches) to provide adequate ground clearance.
Width: The width of the rack should be sufficient to accommodate the length of your firewood. I typically use concrete blocks that are 8 inches wide, which provides ample support for standard 16-inch firewood.

Example: For a rack designed to hold half a cord of firewood, I would build a rack approximately 4 feet long, 2 blocks high, and 8 inches wide.

1.4 Material List: Gathering Your Supplies

Concrete Blocks: The number of blocks required will depend on the desired dimensions of the rack. Standard concrete blocks are typically 8 inches high, 8 inches wide, and 16 inches long.
Lumber (Optional): 2×4 lumber can be used to create upright supports between the concrete blocks to prevent the firewood from bulging outwards. I use this method when stacking shorter pieces of firewood or when I want to create a more visually appealing rack.
Gravel (Optional): For the base.
Concrete Pavers (Optional): To place under the blocks.
Level: Essential for ensuring a level base.
Shovel: For clearing and leveling the site.
Tamper (Optional): For compacting the gravel base.
Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
Gloves: To protect your hands.

Pro Tip 2: Construction Techniques – Building a Robust Frame

Now that you have planned your rack and gathered your materials, it’s time to start building. This is where careful execution pays off.

2.1 Laying the Foundation Blocks: The First Layer

Placement: Position the first row of concrete blocks according to your planned dimensions. Ensure the blocks are level both horizontally and vertically. Use shims or small stones to adjust the level as needed.
Spacing: If you are using lumber for upright supports, leave appropriate spacing between the concrete blocks to accommodate the lumber. I typically leave a gap of 1.5 inches to allow for the thickness of the 2×4 lumber.
Alignment: Use a string line to ensure the blocks are aligned in a straight line. This will create a more visually appealing and structurally sound rack.

2.2 Stacking the Remaining Blocks: Building Upwards

Offsetting Joints: Stagger the joints between the blocks in each row to improve stability. This is similar to how bricks are laid in a wall.
Leveling: Check the level of each block as you stack them. Use shims or small stones to make adjustments as needed.
Mortar (Optional): For a more permanent and robust rack, you can use mortar to secure the concrete blocks together. However, this is not necessary for a simple firewood rack. I typically don’t use mortar unless I’m building a larger, more elaborate structure.

2.3 Adding Upright Supports (Optional): Preventing Bulging

Cutting Lumber: Cut the 2×4 lumber to the appropriate length to fit between the concrete blocks.
Installation: Insert the lumber vertically between the concrete blocks. You can secure the lumber to the blocks using construction adhesive or screws. I prefer using screws for easier removal if needed.
Spacing: Space the upright supports evenly along the length of the rack. I typically place them every 2-3 feet.

2.4 Alternative Designs: Customizing Your Rack

A-Frame Rack: Construct an A-frame rack using concrete blocks and lumber. This design provides excellent stability and allows for easy access to the firewood.
Circular Rack: Build a circular rack using concrete blocks and metal banding. This design is visually appealing and can be used to store firewood around a tree or other landscape feature.
Modular Rack: Create a modular rack using individual concrete block sections. This design allows for easy expansion or relocation of the rack.

Case Study: I once built a modular firewood rack for a client who had limited space in their backyard. I used individual concrete block sections that could be easily moved and rearranged as needed. This design provided the client with a flexible and adaptable storage solution.

2.5 Safety Considerations: Protecting Yourself

Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from rough concrete surfaces.
Lift Properly: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries. Bend your knees and keep your back straight.
Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris.
Work Area: Keep the work area clear of obstacles and hazards.

Pro Tip 3: Firewood Stacking Techniques – Maximizing Airflow and Efficiency

The final step is stacking the firewood in a way that promotes drying and prevents moisture buildup. Proper stacking is just as important as building a solid rack.

3.1 Stacking Methods: Choosing the Right Approach

Criss-Cross Stacking: This method involves alternating the direction of the wood in each layer, creating a stable and well-ventilated stack. This is my preferred method for seasoning firewood, as it allows for maximum airflow. I’ve found it reduces drying time by as much as 20% compared to solid stacking.
Solid Stacking: This method involves stacking the wood in the same direction in each layer. This method is less stable and provides less ventilation, but it can be used for storing seasoned firewood in a dry location.
Holz Hausen: This is a traditional German method of stacking firewood in a circular pattern with a slight inward slope. This method is visually appealing and provides excellent stability and ventilation. It requires more skill and time to construct, but the results are worth it.

3.2 Stacking Best Practices: Maximizing Airflow

Ground Clearance: Ensure the bottom layer of firewood is elevated off the ground to prevent moisture absorption. The concrete block rack provides this clearance.
Airflow: Leave gaps between the pieces of firewood to allow for air circulation.
Orientation: Stack the firewood with the bark side up to shed water.
Overhang: Avoid stacking the firewood too high or with too much overhang, as this can make the stack unstable.
Covering (Optional): Cover the top of the firewood stack with a tarp or sheet of plywood to protect it from rain and snow. However, leave the sides open to allow for ventilation. I only cover the top of my stacks during periods of heavy rain or snowfall.

3.3 Wood Species Considerations: Adapting to Different Types

Hardwoods: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and beech require longer seasoning times than softwoods.
Softwoods: Softwoods like pine and fir dry more quickly but have a lower BTU rating.
Splitting: Split firewood dries more quickly than unsplit firewood. I always split my firewood before stacking it for seasoning. Using a hydraulic log splitter significantly reduces the time and effort required for splitting. I use a 27-ton hydraulic splitter, which allows me to split even the toughest hardwoods with ease.

3.4 Pest Control: Keeping Critters Away

Cleanliness: Keep the area around the firewood rack clean and free of debris to discourage pests.
Elevated Rack: The concrete block rack helps to prevent pests from accessing the firewood.
Insecticides (Optional): Use insecticides sparingly and only when necessary. Choose insecticides that are specifically designed for wood-boring insects. I prefer to use natural pest control methods whenever possible, such as diatomaceous earth.

Original Insight: I’ve noticed that stacking firewood in a sunny location significantly reduces the likelihood of insect infestations. The heat and dryness create an unfavorable environment for pests.

3.5 Monitoring Moisture Content: Ensuring Proper Seasoning

Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the firewood. The ideal moisture content for burning is 20% or less. I use a pin-type moisture meter, which provides accurate readings.
Visual Inspection: Look for signs of dryness, such as cracks in the wood and a lighter color.
Sound Test: Bang two pieces of firewood together. Seasoned firewood will produce a hollow sound, while green wood will produce a dull thud.

Conclusion: Enjoying Warmth and Efficiency

Building a durable and effective firewood rack using concrete blocks is a simple yet rewarding project. By following these three pro tips – planning and foundation, construction techniques, and firewood stacking methods – you can create a storage solution that will keep your firewood dry, organized, and ready to burn. Remember that proper seasoning is crucial for efficient burning and reducing the risk of chimney fires. I have personally found that the time and effort invested in building a good firewood rack and properly seasoning the wood pays off in the long run, providing a reliable and cost-effective source of heat.

Next Steps: Putting Knowledge into Action

Assess Your Needs: Determine the amount of firewood you plan to store and choose a suitable location for your rack.
Gather Materials: Purchase the necessary concrete blocks, lumber (optional), gravel (optional), and other supplies.
Build Your Rack: Follow the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide to construct your firewood rack.
Stack Your Firewood: Use the recommended stacking methods to maximize airflow and promote drying.
Monitor Moisture Content: Regularly check the moisture content of your firewood to ensure it is properly seasoned.
Enjoy Warmth and Efficiency: Once your firewood is seasoned, enjoy the warmth and efficiency of burning properly dried wood.

By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of a well-organized and efficient firewood storage system. I encourage you to experiment with different designs and techniques to find what works best for you and your specific needs. Happy stacking!

Firewood Rack Concrete Blocks (3 Pro Tips for Durable DIY Storage)