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Woodworking Tools

10 Best Firewood Racks, According to 24,400+ Customer Reviews

I once tried my hand at making a firewood rack. Obviously, I got it backward because after being stacked only half-full, it collapsed at my feet with a terrific groan.

Many homeowners have shifted from firewood to gas or electric heating in their homes. The truth being said, firewood has always been connected with classiness and style. It gives rise to the idiom, home, and hearth invoking a picture of warmth and security.

The crackling of the fire, the occasional hisses, and pops, the visual pleasantness of a fireplace, it all adds up to a stress-busting experience. It is therefore still high on popularity. Although relatively inexpensive, firewoods cannot be just left in the backyard to rot. So, stacking them up on a rack is always a great idea, keeps them covered well-dried and moisture-free to get that perfect fire going.

We have pieced together our list of top-quality firewood racks available on the market after exercising due diligence in our reviewing process. The reviews and shopping tips will hopefully direct you to pick the right model for your needs.

10 of the Most Widely Available Firewood Racks Reviewed

01 Landmann USA Landmann 82433 (Best Overall)

Landmann USA Landmann 82433

The Landmann 82433 is a firewood rack constructed of steel and is in two sizes; 4’ and 8’. We shall focus on the larger of the two. It is of a solid build with 18 gauge heavy-duty tubular steel construction. There is no compromise on its durability and strength.

The weather-proof powder coating finishes for protection and its elegantly, simple looks make for a covetable product. A unique and creative solution in its design is that the 8’ model can be assembled so that if the need arises, only half or 4’ rack can be utilized.

The three connected log rails afford additional support as well as keep the ground away from your tidily stacked wood insulating it from both insects and moisture. An additional gain is the airflow assists in curing the wood.

The assembly of this rack is extremely simple. The tools you require are simple everyday implements like a screwdriver and a wrench. However, having a helper is required. The entire job of assembly should take 30 minutes tops.

We were a bit disappointed with the quality of the provided vinyl cover. It would last a season at best. It is both ill-fitting and we observed its durability is questionable. Our advice is that you seek a more suitable alternative than the Landmann firewood rack cover.

One more thing, make sure it is situated at a location that is level. 8 feet is a long span.

In this Top 10 list, the other competition to the Landmann 82433 is two others; the Woodhaven 8 ft. and also the ShelterLogic. These are all big boys. The Landmann 82433 has one weakness which is pretty rectifiable; a faulty cover. The Woodhaven has issues with its capaciousness though it stands tall for its arc-welded finish; whilst the ShelterLogic has been singled out for purportedly having rusting issues.

Like we often mention we are independent assessors and not adjudicators. We present the case as we find it, you are to act if you feel it appropriate.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 96” L x 13” W x 49” x H
  • Material: Steel
  • Storage capacity: ½ Full Cord (cut to 24” logs)
  • Weight: 22.7 lbs
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: 1 year

Pros

  • Sturdy steel construction
  • Six strong feet
  • 8-feet wood rack
  • Highly durable
  • Assembly elementary

Cons

  • The cover is prone to tear

Our Verdict

We firmly hold that the Landmann 82433 firewood rack is a delectable choice. They have a lot going for them; sturdiness, excellence in design, attractive mid-range pricing, and a variable width storage arrangement. The weight may be a bit on the higher side, but that is a trade-off for the brawny construction. It is an outdoor rack and we stand our ground that this is one heck of an outdoor firewood rack.

02 Fireplace Log Rack with 4 Tools by AMAGABELI (Runner Up)

Fireplace Log Rack with 4 Tools by AMAGABELI

The AMAGABELI is an indoor/ outdoor log rack which is the perfect wood rack for your home fireplace or outdoor pit. Tool holders come with this unit with hooks and for fire starters, a steel shelf below the wood rack is thrown in. The design is a clever space-saving vertical one, stylishly crafted for indoor use too.

The construction is of robust tubular steel treated with powder coating to keep rust and corrosion at bay. The base is raised 2” off the ground to keep your wood dry and ready for use at any time, by avoiding ingress of moisture. The setup is ergonomically such as to prevent the wood from dropping out.

What captivated us was the entire thoughtful arrangement of hooks, four of them, for arranging the essential items that go with a kindled fire; shovel, broom, tongs, and what have you. The rack bottom serves as a handy platform for keeping kindling materials.

Assembly of this rack is easy. The tools come included.

Being of wrought iron it is super-strong and stands up to the agents of damage well.

Amagabeli is a classic indoor firewood rack manufacturer. Their other contribution featured here, the Fireplace Wrought Iron Log Holder is another head-turner. We suggest you have a good look at it too.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 15.8” L x 11.8” W x 29.1” x H
  • Material Wrought iron
  • Storage capacity ? cord of wood
  • Weight 20.4 pounds
  • Assembly Required
  • Warranty 1 year

Pros

  • Assembly free
  • Accommodates more firewood
  • Rust-resistant
  • User-friendly
  • Usable both indoors and outdoors

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Short handled tools

Our Verdict

This Amagabeli firewood a pro. It has class, is a dual purpose firewood rack, and well, is just simply a great acquisition not just for its looks but for its utility too. It’s also narrow and takes up less space. It’s robustly built with a wonderful design that fits both indoors and outdoors. No wonder why it’s one of the best-rated models on our list. The price is not something to send shivers down your spine and it’s a pretty safe bet.

03 Panacea 15209 40-Inch Tubular Steel Log Hoop (Most Stylish Choice)

Panacea 15209 40-Inch Tubular Steel Log Hoop

We just could not help but fall for this circular or ring design wood stack. We found it both ornamental and an elegant showoff piece for the living room. It is dual purpose- indoor or outdoor, take your pick. You get two choices- 20 and 40 inches.

40 inches is the width of this amazing log hoop. Solid tubular steel of 0.375 dia. steel is what it is constructed of and powder coated for additional rust and corrosion protection. We understand that you are thinking, it’s for indoor use. Your home is not insulated from moisture; even those beautiful indoor plants aspirate.

Of course, if you choose to use this rebar model outdoors, you are bang on track. The supports at the bottom help keep the rack upright even if it is loaded with a load of wood. The assembly is a child’s play and this hoop is really ideal for keeping a close amount of wood at hand.

The loop is in three parts that require it to be bolted up sequentially. The empty weight is easily manageable. And the coup de grace is that it can be folded flat. Whoops!

Our research and understanding of powder coatings are that though they do not need painting or touching up. They are hence environmentally friendly. However, if they were to get chipped, you need to take swift action to prevent the breakdown of the entire barrier. You better avoid positioning the rack in a location where the likelihood of impact damage is minimal.

If you are on the lookout for an indoor firewood rack, another contender is the Fireplace Log Holder by Amagabeli featured here on this list at No. 9. We feel it could give the Panacea 15209 some serious competition. It has the attitude and the look.

This is a made-in-China product and users will find the instructions on the manual almost gibberish.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 42.13 x 14.13 x 0.67 inches
  • Material: Steel
  • Storage capacity: ½ cord
  • Weight: 8.38 pounds
  • Assembly: Quick assembly
  • Warranty: No information

Pros

  • Stylish and elegant
  • Robust steel construction
  • Foldable
  • Inexpensive
  • Aesthetically round in shape

Cons

  • Instruction manual in a foreign language

Our Verdict

This firewood rack will add a classic look to your patio as it has the mid-century design language. It is versatile in that it can be used both inside and outside the house. It is a superb expression of chic and will definitely turn heads. We honestly feel it would be a crying shame to leave this product out in the open. It belongs indoors. It has the lines and curves to gladden the heart.

04 Woodhaven The 8-Foot Firewood Log Rack with Cover

Woodhaven The 8-Foot Firewood Log Rack with Cover

The Woodhaven 8 feet rack is a Hercules among firewood racks. It is strong as a beast, is arc-welded so that the chances of any failure at any section is non-existent. And yes, stainless steel hardware comes with it. So putting it all together, it is virtually indestructible. It is a rack that will live very long. This is one rack that sure has muscles.

The cover is an intelligent piece of business. It covers the top two or three layers allowing sunlight and air circulation in the lower areas which are more prone to moisture invasion and mold growth. The top layers are always readily available for immediate consumption.

We found the assembly quite simple. We, from our experience, have found that though the manual gives decent guidance, the assembly process is sometimes taxing.

Another thing that we had mentioned earlier about the cord measure, is its ambivalence. Though the Woodhaven’s specs mention it has a capacity of half a cord, it is closer to a third of a cord as our random measurements discovered.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 60 x 14 x 48 inches
  • Material: Metal
  • Storage capacity: ? cord
  • Weight: 46 pounds
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: Lifetime

Pros

  • Stainless steel hardware
  • Arc welded
  • Easy assembly
  • Well-designed cover

Cons

  • Not as capacious as specified

Our Verdict

We find the Woodhaven 8-foot log rack a marvelous fit as an outdoor firewood rack. It is solid, large and would serve a full family for the whole cold season. The makers are so sure of this product that it is covered by a lifetime warranty. The other small issue is that since this is a strictly outdoor rack, you have to cart in the firewood. We suggest you go in for one of the beautifully designed indoor racks too so you could enjoy a whole evening without budging from that cozy armchair.

05 Panacea 15203 Deluxe Outdoor Log Rack

Panacea 15203 Deluxe Outdoor Log Rack

A product that calls itself ‘deluxe’ is asking for attention. We fully agree.

The Panacea 15203 is a decent choice for those who require a smaller rack and inexpensive to boot. It is designed for outdoor use.

We found the assembly literally child’s play but we’ll encourage DIY enthusiasts to read the manual.

The off-ground distance is ample enough to ensure proper curing and drying. It is dual purpose- for outdoor use as it is powder-coated to shield it from the elements, or indoors too, probably in a basement as it does not have a huge footprint.

In our search, we, unfortunately, discovered that some units were malformed, which we also unearthed was a control issue that has been addressed by the makers as we understand at the time of writing.

This product is not made in the US. It is shipped in from China. So quality issues are not directly on the manufacturer but their quality control we feel.

A cover is not included in the deal. For assembly, all you require are a wrench and pliers.

We need to butt in here. Though it may be used indoors is a sales spiel. With other offerings, such as the Panacea Loop and the Amagabeli products, the Panacea 15203 is advertised as an outdoor rack and best used likewise. It is too much of a ‘plain Jane’ to be ushered indoors.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 48 T x 48 L x 14 D, in inches
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Storage capacity: ? cord
  • Weight: 20 pounds
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: No information

Pros

  • Assembly is fast
  • Inexpensive
  • Compact
  • Cheap
  • Works both indoors and outdoors

Cons

  • Issues with quality control

Our Verdict

Purchasing a rack for chopped or raw wood is not as simple as going around the corner to the grocery store. We after careful scrutiny, hold that the Panacea 15023 is indeed a splendid buy and we recommend it for outdoor use. For indoor use, though elegant looking, it is a bit too minimalist. This has little bearing on its retaining respectable performance.

06 AMAGABELI 4ft Firewood Outdoor Only Rack

AMAGABELI 4ft Firewood Outdoor Only Rack

With dimensions of 4’ in width and depth, the redeeming feature of the Amagabeli is that it occupies less floor space whilst giving you more than adequate storage capacity. It is easy to assemble and takes around 20 minutes or so only. It comes with a one-year warranty which is a sign that the maker is giving you a fair deal.

The ground clearance is an ample 6.7 inches which provides great ventilation. This is a huge positive as good ventilation also helps in curing the wood not to speak of denying access to termites.

The tubular steel is 1.5mm thick, which is more than the norm of 1.2mm. It is powder-coated for durability.

There are problems as we found from customers. It begins to rust early within 6 months. Some were of the opinion that it is lacking in longevity which we feel is an unfair surmise. After all, Amagabeli is offering a warranty of 1 year. We were not convinced that this product is inferior by any standards.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 48 T x 48 L x 14 D, in inches, off ground 6.7”
  • Material: Steel, powder-coated
  • Storage capacity: ¼ face cord, up to 330 pounds
  • Weight: 16 pounds
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: 1 year

Pros

  • Compact
  • Easy assembly
  • 1-year warranty
  • Thick gauge tubular steel

Cons

  • No cover provided

Our Verdict

We liked the Amagabeli 4 ft firewood rack for its simple design. This product is in our opinion very durable and strong especially because of its extra strength in using steel of thicker gauge. However, you’ve got to buy an extra cover to keep the wood enclosed and dry during the rains.

The makers have stated that they are committed to their striving to offer their customers premium products. Their customer service is also commendable. It’s a good value so to speak, and you can’t really go wrong with this.

07 Landmann USA 82424 Adjustable Firewood Rack

Landmann USA 82424 Adjustable Firewood Rack

The Landmann 82424 has its collars turned up. Why? It is adjustable and who doesn’t love a customizable product. It has rave reviews and is one of the top 10 firewood racks of 2020. It has a loyal support base and boasts envious ratings. Let’s take a closer look.

Rugged stainless steel that is heavy-duty has gone into the construction of this extraordinary product. Durability and longevity are given. A powder coating of high quality does the job of ensuring that the product is totally water-proof.

Wooden cross bars have been provided so that this firewood rack is sufficiently elevated off the ground for much-required ventilation of the firewood from dampness.

This product is adjustable to 16 feet wide. Assembly and storage are simple.

We in our research found a notable issue about the makers; Landmann has been in the business of manufacturing charcoal grills and firepits for 50 years, all based on German Technology. Their dedication towards precision, aesthetics, design, and quality needs no introduction.

It is provided with an adjustable log length bracket that can be from 2’ to 16’.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 13.75 x 192 x 41.5 cubed inches.
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Storage capacity: 0.9 full cord
  • Weight: 9 pounds
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: No information

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Sturdy
  • Easy to assemble
  • Adjustable length

Cons

  • No cover

Our Verdict

A few users complained about issues like the gauge was too thin, powder coating was insufficient, and so on. Not all such complaints can be dismissed as frivolous. But they are usually one-off. The Landmann 82424 is a definitely well-crafted firewood rack and the cost is a lark. If you are a first-time buyer, we recommend this one.

08 ShelterLogic Adjustable Heavy Duty Outdoor Firewood Rack

ShelterLogic Adjustable Heavy Duty Outdoor Firewood Rack

This is another 12 feet long, sturdy firewood rack that can accommodate a huge amount of wood and is a durable product. It has a proper cover protecting the upper layers and muscular legs that can take the load of a fully stacked rack.

The polyester cover is two-way-adjustable that can slide up and down depending on the pile height.

This is a heavy-duty firewood rack constructed of 1 ½ “ steel tubing so the frame is of solid construction. The powder coating is premium and protects against rust, chipping, peeling, and corrosion. A reinforcing spreader bar further strengthens the base. After all, it can take up to ½ a ton of wood cut into 24” logs.

The base clearance is good so that the wood is safe from moisture, insect infestation, and mold.

Our expert had a disconcerting observation. He maintains the powder coating is not all that premium as advertised. In fact, it is inferior. He demonstrated his claim by scratching it with his fingernail. In a salty environment, he predicts failure would be rapid. We take him seriously as he was in the business of corrosion protection.

The ShelterLogic is compatible with both indoor and outdoor use. By indoor, surely not in the living room considering its size, maybe on a patio or the basement.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 15.5” W x 49.7” D x 46.6”H
  • Material: Steel, powder-coated
  • Storage capacity: ? cord, 1100 pounds
  • Weight: 28 pounds
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: 1 year limited warranty

Pros

  • Large capacity
  • Extremely sturdy
  • Great cover
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Design flaws

Our Verdict

ShelterLogic is a good product. This is a dedicated outdoor firewood rack, no pretensions. Yes, we did express some aspersions earlier on. But do remember this product has a tubular thickness of 1.5mm as compared to the usual 1.20mm which makes it stand tall. This muscular outdoor wood rack is as good as they come; robust, strong, and with the promise of long service. Also, if you plan to get a cheaper model, it’s unbeatable.

09 Fireplace Log Holder Wrought Iron Rack

Fireplace Log Holder Wrought Iron Rack

The Fireplace Log Holder is of a large capacity measuring 21.5 inches down to 15.5 inches at the bottom. The base is flat so that the firewood can be placed in an orderly fashion, the sides being framed thus preventing the wood from popping out. The design is very stable and since it is made specifically for indoor use only, the makers have embellished this product with an elegant rustic leaf motif that gives it a posh look.

It is well-raised above the ground so dampness and other problems are taken care of. The makers have taken care of durability by means of a quality powder coating. It comes along with a one year warranty.

This is a staple of the Amagabeli stable and with its modern look, will amply add that oomph factor of your home. The color is black and it is also foldable.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 21.5 T x 15.5 B x 15.5 H inches
  • Material Steel, powder-coated
  • Storage capacity 1/10 cord
  • Weight 18.4 pounds
  • Assembly Not Required
  • Warranty 1 year limited warranty

Pros

  • No assembly required
  • Accommodates more firewood
  • Rust and corrosion-resistant
  • Great looks

Cons

  • Relatively expensive

Our Verdict

You’ve got the bucks and this product, your fancy. This is the Sophia Loren of indoor firewood racks. The entire process of making wrought iron, by itself, injects great strength into the product. The quality is further advanced by powder coating. Rest assured, the size is enough to stock up a full day’s firewood. So what are you waiting for? Go, get one?

10 Pleasant Hearth – 32mm Heavy Duty Log Rack

Pleasant Hearth - 32mm Heavy Duty Log Rack

This product is also one that features prominently in the top 10 list. It is a sturdy construction and the design is simplistic. It has exceptional features and has received reviews.

It is built of lightweight tubular steel but that does not take away anything from its strength. The assembly holes are square which are engineered for greater stability. It is easy to assemble, transport and store too.

We found the adjustability of the Pleasant Hearth a delightful innovation. It comes with two sturdy brackets and accompanying hardware so that you can easily build your own log rack. The two 2 x 4 base beams are all that you need to purchase separately. You can thereafter customize the capacity as to your requirements.

The whole unit is also perfectly protected against rust and corrosion by powder coating.

We feel that a ground clearance of just 4 inches is a bit miserly. The beams itself can be a source of rot and fodder for termites which imperils stability of the rack and the insufficient ventilation, which is a source of concern for the entire woodpile. So choosing this option of making adjustable comes with some problems.

The 2 x 4 beams may be a bit large for the brackets because of the expansion of the wood. Make sure you check them for a good fit before you make an order.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 48 x 13.5 x 49 cubed inches
  • Material: Steel
  • Storage capacity: ½ cord
  • Weight: 14.5 pounds
  • Assembly: Required
  • Warranty: No information

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Durable
  • Versatile
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Expensive

Our Verdict

The Pleasant Hearth is doubtlessly heavy duty. It is for outdoor use only. We quite did like the adjustable beam arrangement but feel it can be improved on. That having been said, there is little doubt that this product is heavy-duty, of pretty strong and robust construction. This product is a bit more expensive than the competition but well worth it.

Other Notable Brands

Here’s a list of other good selling brands and their popular models:

2x4basics, Northern Tool, Plow and Hearth, Shelter It, Home Hardware, Wayfair, Sunnydaze (known for their 6-foot models), DOEWORKS (known for curved models), Enclume, Woodeze, upCyD (known for models made from Repurposed Skis), HIO (known for Steel Circle model), Style Selection, Harbor Freight, Ace Hardware, LL Bean, Style Selections, Pottery Barn, INNO STAGE (known for hearthside models), Scandia, Arrow, and Ikea.

Here are other hot sellers:

Sunnydaze Décor, PHI VILLA, AMAGABELI GARDEN & HOME, KINGSO, Solo Stove, Everflying, KHOMO GEAR, Regal Flame, MBQQ, VIVOHOME, Zantle, LEADALLWAY, Plow & Hearth, Champion, RightHand, Suteck, Anleolife, HomComfort, Yard Island, Island Retreat, Mofeez, Ohuh, Classic Accessories, Hima, Designed For Outdoors (DFO), Hanover, Zidd, Mosaic, INNO STAGE, Uniflame, Femor, Ashman, Womio, Qualward, Patio Watcher, Nest & Nook, ORAF, EasyGoProducts, Home-Complete, Pure Garden, MyGift, SONGMICS, Pinty, National Hardware, Hopkins, and FOYUEE.

The Science of Firewood

Cord of Wood

Some interesting trivia. In around 1610, firewood was tied with a cord and sold in bundles. Hence the term ‘a cord of wood’.

The term ‘cord of wood’ is descriptive of a double stack of wood that measures around 4 feet high and deep having a length of 8 feet. The total volume is 128 cubic feet or if you prefer metric figures, it works out to 3.62 cubic meters. So, 64 cubic feet area of wood would be called a half-cord amount.

This is a term coined and used by firewood sellers and is not a term sanctioned by the Government. It is general and ambiguous. The National Institute of Standards and Technology has a document that explains what a ‘cord’ is.

Face Cord

Another term that indicates the volume of firewood. It is only 2 feet deep. Or half a cord of wood. This is totally meaningless and used along with other equally ambivalent terms like rick cord, standing cord, or stove cord.

Length of Firewood

18” to 24’ lengths are what firewood is cut to mainly so that a standard fireplace or wood stove can accommodate these lengths only. Before you buy firewood, don’t forget to measure the interior of your fireplace or woodstove.

Green Weight

The green weight of wood is the weight it possesses when freshly cut. It has a considerable amount of moisture in it, as high as 50% of the total weight.

Dry Weight

The dry weight is self-explanatory. It is the weight after the moisture in the wood has been released.

How Does That Affect Us?

Let us have a closer look. Greenwood is undesirable for the fireplace as is evident.

Heat is produced when the wood is burnt. A large amount of this energy goes into boiling off the water from the greenwood. This happens even before the combustion process starts with the result that greenwood is inferior in providing warmth.

More importantly, greenwood produces a lot of smoke which by itself is a bother, but it also transports a good deal of creosote, a tarry substance, which coats your chimney uptake and by itself is a fire hazard.

Firewood Rack Buying Guide: What to Expect

Best Firewood Racks Buying Guide

1. Rack Size

The choice of rack size is governed by its intended purpose. An outdoor firewood rack ( also known as Storage Bin ) would be much larger than one intended for the fireplace, living room, or den. Firewood racks come in all shapes and sizes with some being adjustable too. The main idea is that the outdoor rack should be large enough to contain enough firewood to see you through the cold months. For square space get 4X4 or 2X2 feet rectangular models. If you want a tall and thin model, go for 2X4.

Previously, houses used to be designed with built-in wood storage racks and log and kindling holders. In that case, the rack size couldn’t be adjusted.

2. Capacity

When you go looking for an outdoor firewood rack, an important consideration is the size of the rack. Of course, this is a reflection of the quantity of wood you need to store, the right idea would be to go in for one of a larger capacity space permitting. You don’t want to keep stacking wood in the rack repeatedly in case it runs out. Overloading a rack may cause it to topple over leaving your firewood muddy and damp.

3. Rust-Resistance

Since the rack would necessarily be stored outside, it would need to withstand the rigors of the weather. In other words, it should be long-lasting. You have the option of choosing a rack fashioned of a rust-resistant metal such as aluminum. A more sensible idea is to choose one which is powder-coated.

4. Indoor Racks Versus Outdoor Racks

You need to weigh your decision carefully about whether you are going in for an indoor rack or an outdoor one.

The first point to pay attention to is the location for the rack. If an outdoor rack is to be positioned on a deck, patio, or porch, wooden beams will have to be positioned at the base. If the rack is to sit directly on the ground, a metal base is a prerequisite. Racks should be sufficiently off the ground to prevent insects and other vermin from taking refuge. Focus on the design of the pallet, that is responsible for effective protection from the ground moisture. Box designs are always safer.

Indoor racks need to be aesthetic. Here too, the location and space available should be pre-measured before making a purchase. It can be in the den or the living room. Careful heed should be paid that the weight is spread out by placing planks or else the point loads exerted by the legs will damage the tiling.

5. Type

  • Classic Firewood Rack– Classic frames are fabricated of steel and are of steel. They’re often wall-mounted for decorative purposes. Gold, silver, and brass are three common colors for these. Longevity is their strong point. To reinforce that, they are constructed in flat, straight sections, not unlike a fence line. These are usually placed outside the home with ample ground clearance for keeping the woodpile dry and free of pests. They are of a larger capacity.
  • Log Hoop-Hoop racks are more for indoor storage, are funky, and add that extra elegance to your living room.

6. Construction & Durability

The construction of the firewood rack should be durable and strong enough to see you through many years. A solid steel rack makes good sense but it is not only the material that determines the overall durability. The craftsmanship is another aspect that should pass scrutiny. The welding of the joints, the connection of the different pieces, and the finish should all pass muster as they all chip in towards the ultimate strength and sturdiness of the product.

The common materials used for such racks include cast iron, stainless steel, aluminum, wood (also used in constructing cutting racks), cinder block (great for custom racks), metal sheet, leather, PVC pipes, copper, and brass (commonly seen in antique models).

7. Decorative Appeal & Style

You may have the need for positioning the rack in such a place which is a high visibility area such as your living room. Three things matter here- the wood can’t be stacked pell-mell, the rack needs to look sharp and please no creepy crawlies. Take care of these three counts and you are in the super league.

8. Accessories

Some accessories are necessary both for the protection of the firewood as well as the rack. Covers are important add-ons you should consider. Preferably they should be waterproof. The covers sold by the makers are the best option as they will fit your woodpile like a glove.

In case you prefer a tarp or any other covering, fasten the tarp or cover with rope or weigh it down so that it doesn’t take off in the wind. Some models come with a roof installed. You may also get models that have wheels for easy rolling and portability.

9. Budget

A firewood rack is the best way you can keep your wood protected outdoors. The need for it in your home is undisputed. You do not need to spend a fortune to buy one. By and large, the bigger and higher quality racks will cost you more. If you invest in getting one, it is advisable to go in for quality.

You can build your own firewood crib with minimal investment. There are plenty of DIY projects that you can choose online.

Firewood Storing Tips

Firewood Storing Tips

1. Firewood should always be stowed and stacked properly

Tossing wood haphazardly into a pile makes for improper ventilation, increasing the void spaces for vermin and other malicious elements as a result. Stacking should be staggered like in building a wall; the bricks are never positioned one upon another.

Importantly it should be stacked loosely. This encourages the much-needed circulation of air which removes moisture and promotes curing.

2. Firewood should be above the ground always

In a nutshell, this promotes airflow. Greenwood cures faster, moisture in the woodpile is soaked up, termites are kept at bay, not to speak of other infestations.

3. There is no substitute for dry wood

Dry wood combusts better and faster. That is why greenwood and moisture-laden wood are to be guarded against. That’s why wet pieces can be placed by the fireside before putting it in the fire.

4. Storing firewood indoors is not advised

Have a large stash of firewood in the basement or indoors, wherever. Indoor firewood racks are out of the reckoning here. Just bring in enough for the night. However, ensure that the firewood is dry. A word of caution; spiders and even mice find woodpiles a cozy nesting area. Make sure you don’t introduce them indoors. However, keeping a basket model for a smaller stockpile of wood shouldn’t be that of a problem.

5. Dog play areas should be segregated from firewood storage

Dogs and children will bring in a bit of rough play. A toppling woodpile is an impediment we can circumvent.

6. Keep the firewood stack away from home walls

This is an oft-repeated trait. Firewood is a fire risk; it is home to pests and most importantly you are blocking off one side thereby hindering ventilation with the consequences. Firewood storage made from pallets

7. Keep the storage area clean

In the summer months, the woodpile suffers neglect. Weeds grow around and in general, nobody gives it a second thought. Oops. Serious mistake- without circulation, your wood will rot and more unpleasant surprises are in store. So do invest some time in house-keeping around your woodpile.

Summing It Up

A firewood organizer or rack is not as inconsequential as some may feel. Firewood might not be expensive but the use of wood, we feel, does not do good to the environment. But after calculating the carbon footprints of using either gas or electricity, it scores a great deal higher.

We, on our part, did the homework to present you with a level field where you’ll find the best tools. You’ve also accessed all the relevant information that you need to make your choice. Hopefully, you’ll choose the right model that’ll offer good value for the money.

FAQs

1. What width is suggested for a firewood rack?

Ans. This is entirely dictated by the amount you wish to keep and of course the size of rack your home or need requires. There are no dictates as far as the width of a firewood rack. However, the rule-of-thumb is that the width should measure 40 ½ inches wide give or take.

2. What is the price of 1 wood cord?

Ans. A cord of hardwood can range from $ 120 to $180 depending on the location. There is the question of how well seasoned it is, and importantly when you choose to buy it.

3. Is it necessary to cover firewood?

Ans. There is no argument here. If not covered, firewood will turn into brushwood, rot, and perish. Ensure firewood is covered always and well ventilated.

4. How is Firewood seasoned?

Ans. Exposed to sunlight and well ventilated to enhance drying and curing.

5. Why is it called a cord of wood?

Ans. This has a historical background to it. Dating back to the 1600s, the wood used to be sold in humanly carriable bundles tied up by a cord. That was the standard then and has been carried for.

6. A 4-foot rack would hold how much wood?

Ans. A cord of wood is 4 x 4 x 8 feet when evenly stacked. It amounts to 128 cubic feet.

There is an adder here; there are void spaces between the stashed logs that could be as much as 12% less.

7. Bad firewood could present what syndromes?

Ans. Bad firewood could cause a huge variety of short term lung ailments, including burning eyes, throat irritation, and bronchitis.

About the author

Brent Butterworth

A Professional Woodworker & Custom Furniture Builder

Brent lives in Wisconsin and is a woodworker, custom cabinetmaker, interior consultant, and a freelance writer who got the opportunity to write several magazine articles for different publications on home improvement and woodworking. He’s always amazed at the depth and breadth of woodworking all over the globe, and feels proud to be a part of this great effort. Brent has built everything one can imagine, from unique art furniture to different types of home furniture to canoes and even a sailboat.

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