Sizes
One of the first things to do is calculate how much wood you need. It is most often arranged in a large bale of 1.2 m x 1.2 m x 2.4 m. Handy wooden logs about 0.4 m long. The 3.5 m3 storage space has about three rows.
This amount of firewood is usually only enough for limited seasonal or aesthetic use. Significantly more stock will allow a medium sized house to be heated in its entirety.
Of course, it also depends on the climate, insulation and availability of losses. When forming the storage space, you need to consider that the logs above shoulder level will be quite difficult to reach during the heating season.
Porch
If you have a large outbuilding at the entrance to your house in the form of an area with a canopy, it is quite acceptable to place the log bed directly on it. Then you do not have to clutter up the space of the yard.
The solution is feasible if the floorboards are made from durable, solid material and can withstand the stresses and high humidity. It’s a quick way to get a load of firewood and get to your firewood storage spot in no time.
You won’t need a shovel to shovel your way to the barn after a snowfall. Storing wood in a container will save flooring. And the lower timbers always stay dry.
In this way, there will be a good protection of firewood. Tiles, stone or concrete will be the perfect solution for a porch base, as they are strong and durable. Do not forget that the bottom of the container should not touch the floor. Need to leave a gap to improve ventilation.
Alcove ─ a special hollow in the wall for storing firewood. It is applicable when the family does not need a lot of fuel material.
The convenience lies in the fact that the place of storage is near the door and is hidden from precipitation by the canopy. The alcove has intermediate compartments with plates separating the individual portions of the bundles.
This allows you to make the fireplace more convenient to use. The units are very stable. You can safely remove a log from the midsection without affecting the top or bottom. This storage space does not spoil the building’s exterior. It harmonizes with the door, windows and porch light.
Autonomous barn
This modification will be the best solution if you need to make a large stock of firewood and the previous options for some reason are not suitable.
In the recent past, freestanding outbuildings were widely used in New England for commercial purposes. Without them, maple syrup couldn’t be made.
As a rule, the structures were near roads. This made shipping and stacking much easier. The only inconvenience was the distance from the house and the consequent difficulty in using the storage in winter. You can admire the small woodpile in the photo, where the wood is also used for aesthetic purposes.
Air circulation and ventilation ─ mandatory when storing firewood. This is especially true if you buy raw wood. Fresh cut wood is much cheaper, but it contains a lot of moisture and needs to be dried for 6-12 months.
Only this kind of long-term drying guarantees an optimal output of thermal energy and makes sure that the wood does not contain the carcinogen creosote.
To ensure air circulation, the stack should be installed so that it serves as a kind of buffer, and the end parts of the logs should be placed perpendicular to the wind currents.
Here is one of the options for decorating the barn. Concrete walls around the perimeter of the building are used in this case.
Using Lessons Learned
Many years ago a couple bought a tiny wooden hut from 1920 to renovate it. The house pictured here was eventually erected on this site.
This project was handled by Arthur Andersson. He was inspired by his experiences in Tucson, Arizona. The architect took an earlier concept from the scorching climate to the cooler conditions of northern Montana.
The landscape is predominantly mountainous. Nestled on the shore of the large, freshwater Flathead Lake at 882 meters above sea level. You can observe the amazing nature.
There are perennial grasses growing right on the roof of the structure. The decking of soil and vegetation is additional thermal insulation. The house is seen as part of the landscape. Andersson draws inspiration from the environment as well as the work of artist Andy Goldsworthy.
A minimal palette of wood and stone was used in the construction. Not just a piece of architecture, but a real work of art.
From afar it’s hard to guess what’s ahead of you. Everything here is unusual. The structure works without central heating. After the agreement with the clients Andersson began to design a series of buildings ─ family and guest houses, designed in the structure with a kitchen.
The composition is conceived in such a way as to form a modern complex and create a great atmosphere for the couple, their children and grandchildren who come to visit.
The architect has created an innovative method of insulation by means of an unusual laying of firewood in the façade of the building. To keep the rooms warm, the walls, constructed through double masonry, were covered on top with pine logs anchored in a metal frame. Windows turned out to be recessed in a wood partition.
Similar log partitions are created inside the house to separate the rooms. In this project the wood serves the purpose of insulating and decorative material.
The craftsman used a special pulley that raises the glass partition inside. The building is heated by several fireplaces. Convertible areas have been created here, keeping you warm when the temperature drops to freezing. In the summertime, these spaces are completely open.
And here is another example of a simple but interesting idea. If you’ve ever had the experience of stacking firewood in an opening between two walls, you can probably appreciate the simplicity and convenience of this stacking method.
Be daring and erect new structures! We look forward to hearing your feedback!
What are some creative ideas for designing and building a log pile that not only accommodates various log sizes, but also ensures optimal air circulation and protection from the elements? I’m particularly interested in hearing about different styles or aesthetic elements that can enhance the overall appearance of the log pile. Any suggestions or tips on ideal locations for setting up a log pile would be greatly appreciated too!
One creative idea for designing a versatile log pile is to create a tiered structure with different compartments for varying log sizes. This can be achieved by building shelves or sections with adjustable dividers to accommodate logs of different lengths and widths. To ensure optimal air circulation, consider incorporating gaps or slats between the logs or using a lattice design.
To protect the logs from the elements, you can build a roof or cover for the log pile. This can be made from materials such as tin, metal roofing, or even a tarp securely fastened to the structure. Additionally, positioning the log pile in a shaded area or against a wall can also help protect it from rain and direct sunlight.
In terms of aesthetic elements, consider incorporating a decorative roof design, using natural materials like stone or wood for the base, or adding plants or flowers around the perimeter of the log pile. Different styles such as rustic, modern, or traditional can be achieved through the choice of materials and finishes.
Ideal locations for setting up a log pile would be in a dry, well-drained area away from buildings or other structures that could pose a fire hazard. It’s also important to ensure the log pile is easily accessible for adding and removing logs. By combining functionality with visually appealing design elements, you can create a log pile that not only serves its purpose but also enhances the overall look of your outdoor space.