What to consider when buying a log storage?
, 11 min reading time
A good log store keeps your firewood dry, neatly stacked and ready for use at all times. Yet choosing the right model isn't just a matter of "what fits in the garden?". Also consider ventilation, drainage, placement (sun, wind and surface) and the material that best suits your outdoor space. In this blog you'll read step by step what to look out for when buying an outdoor log store: from models with or without legs to calculating the capacity in cubic metres. This way you avoid wet wood, mould and unnecessary wear, and choose a solution that also looks tidy in your garden log store. Feel free to browse the different models in our log store collection along the way.
What is a log store?
A log store is a structure in which you can keep firewood dry and organised, usually in the garden or close to the house. Unlike a loose woodpile, a log store provides sufficient ventilation and distance from the ground, allowing the wood to dry better and reducing the risk of mould. Models differ in material, size and construction, from compact variants to larger log stores suitable for intensive use.
Why a log store matters
Do you use an open fireplace, wood stove or fire bowl? Then you want logs that stay dry and can ventilate well. With a log store, the wood doesn't sit directly on the ground, gets shelter from rain and the pile stays organised. In addition, a tidy log store often looks calmer and more well-kept than loose woodpiles in the garden or under a tarpaulin.
Advantages and disadvantages of a log store
A log store offers many practical advantages, but it's wise to also weigh up the possible disadvantages.
Advantages
- Keeps firewood dry and protected from rain and moisture
- Provides ventilation, allowing wood to dry better
- Helps prevent mould and wood rot when placed correctly
- Tidier and safer storage than loose woodpiles
- Improves the burning quality of the wood
- Can be an aesthetic addition to the garden
Disadvantages
- Takes up space in the garden or near the house
- Requires a flat and stable surface
- Larger models are less easy to move
- Materials such as corten steel are more expensive to buy
- Incorrect placement can still cause moisture problems
Tip: many disadvantages can easily be limited by thinking carefully in advance about size, material and placement.
What to look out for when buying a log store
Ventilation and dryness
Good firewood dries through air circulation. Choose a log store that's open at the sides or front. Avoid fully enclosed cabinets without ventilation, especially when the wood still needs to dry further.
Drainage
Drainage is essential to prevent wood rot. Rainwater needs to be able to drain away, for example through drainage holes or by having the store raised slightly off the ground.
Surface and stability
The surface determines which type of log store is suitable. Most models are stable on a hard, flat surface. On sand or soft ground, extra attention is needed to prevent sinking.
Size and capacity
Determine in advance how much wood you want to store and how much space you have available in your garden log store. Also consider accessibility: can you easily stack the wood and take it out again?
Log store with legs vs. without legs
A log store with legs stands slightly off the ground and can be useful on a hard surface. On an unstable surface, such as sand, a log store without legs is often more stable and less prone to sinking.
Choosing the best spot in the garden
Choose a spot that's sheltered from direct driving rain but where enough air can still circulate. Ensure a stable surface and preferably place the log store close to the house or fireplace for extra convenience. A good storage solution for firewood can also be placed against the exterior wall, which offers a sturdy spot and can brighten up a plain wall at the same time. Want to place the log store freestanding in the garden? Then make sure it's firmly anchored with anchors or screws, so it can't tip over in windy weather.
How many cubic metres of wood fit in a log store?
The capacity of a log store is expressed in cubic metres (m³). You calculate this by multiplying the length, depth and height (in metres) together. However, this capacity isn't the same as the amount of ready-to-burn wood that actually fits inside: air space always remains between stacked logs, which is needed for ventilation and drying.
Step-by-step calculation
- Convert the dimensions from centimetres to metres
- Multiply length × depth × height
- The result is the capacity in m³
| Dimensions | Calculation | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 150 × 38.5 × 200 cm | 1.5 × 0.385 × 2 | 1.155 m³ |
From capacity to ready-to-burn wood
With neatly stacked firewood, part of the capacity is actually taken up by wood; the rest is air space between the logs, which is needed for ventilation. The exact ratio depends on the stacking method and the shape of the logs.
How much do you need?
| Use | Average consumption per season | Suitable log store |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional ambience fire | 0.5–1 m³ | Compact model |
| Regular use of wood stove | 2–4 m³ | Medium-sized model |
| Main heating with wood | 6 m³ or more | Large model or multiple stores |
Choice of material: steel and corten steel
Log store made of steel
A steel log store is a sturdy, low-maintenance choice with a sleek design, available in black among other colours. Thanks to the drainage holes in the base plate, the wood stays dry, and the material is sturdy enough to place against a wall or fence.
Advantages of steel
- Low-maintenance and long-term resistant to rain, sun and frost
- Sleek, timeless design that suits almost any garden
- Sturdy enough to place against a wall or fence
- Also suitable for indoor use, for example near a wood stove
- Available with wheels for easy moving
Log store made of corten steel
A corten steel log store forms a protective oxidation layer through weather exposure. This layer prevents further corrosion and gives the material its characteristic warm, rust-brown appearance.
Advantages of corten steel
- Very strong and durable
- Weather- and frost-resistant
- Low-maintenance
- Suitable for modern and classic gardens
- Fully recyclable
Steel versus corten steel: the difference
| Material | Appearance | Maintenance | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel (powder-coated) | Sleek, often black | Low-maintenance | Modern or minimalist gardens |
| Corten steel | Warm, rust-brown | Low-maintenance, forms its own protective layer | Rustic or natural gardens |
Quick decision guide
| Situation | Recommended choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Flat surface | With or without legs | Both options are stable |
| Soft or sandy surface | Without legs | Less risk of sinking |
| Sleek, modern garden | Steel (powder-coated, black) | Sleek design, suits almost any garden |
| Rustic or natural garden | Corten steel | Warm, natural look |
Is a log store the right choice for you?
When it's overkill
Do you only use a small amount of firewood now and then, for example for occasional ambience fires? Then a compact solution is often enough, and you don't need to invest in a large log store right away.
Common mistakes
- Fully enclosing a log store without ventilation, which actually keeps the wood damp.
- Placing it directly on the ground without drainage, which encourages wood rot.
- Choosing a model that's too small for the actual wood consumption, meaning you still have to stack loose wood on the side.
- Not anchoring the log store, which allows it to tip over in strong wind.
Recognisable situations
Do you regularly use a wood stove or open fireplace and want dry, well-burning wood on hand throughout the season? Then a full-sized log store made of steel or corten steel, with sufficient ventilation and capacity, is a sensible investment.
Doika as your advisor
Doika helps you think through the right material, size and best spot for your log store, tailored to your wood consumption and the situation in your garden.
Frequently asked questions
Why is good ventilation important for a log store?
Ventilation allows firewood to dry and "breathe", preventing moisture, mould and poor burning behaviour. An open construction improves air circulation and keeps the wood in better condition.
What is the best spot to place a log store in the garden?
The ideal spot is well ventilated, protected from direct driving rain and stands on a stable, flat surface. Avoid spots where water can collect under the store.
Should I choose a log store with legs or without legs?
That depends on the surface. On a hard, flat surface, both are suitable, but on sand or soft ground, a log store without legs is often more stable.
How do I determine the right size log store?
Consider the available space, your wood consumption and accessibility. By calculating the capacity in cubic metres, you can more easily choose the right size.
What is the difference between a steel and a corten steel log store?
Steel is often powder-coated and has a sleek, modern look, while corten steel develops a warm, rust-brown appearance through natural oxidation. Both materials are low-maintenance and weather-resistant.
Why Doika is a reliable choice
At Doika, we have extensive expertise in garden and outdoor products, including both steel and corten steel log stores for both private and intensive use, and we carefully select our range based on material, construction and functionality, drawing on practical experience and frequently asked customer questions. Customers rate Doika 4,3/5 on Trustpilot, and you benefit from free delivery from €40, clear and honest product information, transparent service and reliable warranty and return conditions with every purchase.
Conclusion
Choosing a log store requires more than just a suitable size. By paying attention to ventilation, drainage, surface and material, you avoid moisture problems and enjoy well-burning firewood for longer. Whether you choose a model with or without legs, a sleek steel frame or durable corten steel, a well-considered choice pays off in convenience and appearance. View the full range and choose the log store that suits your situation at Doika log stores.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is good ventilation important for a log store?
Ventilation allows firewood to dry and "breathe," which prevents moisture, mold, and poor burning quality. An open design improves air circulation and keeps the wood in better condition.
What's the best spot to place a log store in the garden?
The ideal spot is well ventilated, sheltered from direct driving rain, and stands on a stable, level surface. Avoid spots where water can collect underneath the log store.
Should I choose a log store with legs or without legs?
That depends on the ground surface. On a hard, level surface both work well, but on sand or soft ground a log store without legs is often more stable.
How do I determine the right size log store?
Take into account the available space, your wood usage, and accessibility. Calculating the capacity in cubic meters makes it easier to choose the right size.
What's the difference between a steel and a corten steel log store?
Steel is often powder-coated and has a sleek, modern look, while corten steel develops a warm, rust-brown appearance through natural oxidation. Both materials are low-maintenance and weather-resistant.
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