Introduction
DIY firewood storage is essential if you want to keep your logs dry and ready to burn. There’s nothing like the warm glow of a crackling fire on a cold evening — but nothing ruins it faster than wet, messy firewood.
If you’re fed up with soggy logs or constantly tripping over piles of timber, now’s the perfect time to upgrade with some smart and simple DIY firewood storage.
Here’s the good news
You don’t need to spend a fortune to do it right.
With just a few basic tools and some leftover materials, you can build a firewood rack that suits any space — whether it’s in your garden, shed, or living room. It’ll:
- Keep your logs dry and ready to burn
- Declutter your space
- Make it easier to grab firewood when you need it — whether for the wood burner or the firepit
So, whether you’re after pallet firewood storage, sleek indoor firewood storage, or practical firewood rack ideas, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, you’ll find five brilliant DIY firewood storage ideas that are easy to build and easy on the wallet.
And here’s a bonus
We’ll also show you where to get free wood in the UK — because let’s be honest, free fuel is the best kind.
Ready to get started?
Let’s dive in.
1. Pallet Firewood Shed
Looking for a cheap, sturdy solution that looks right at home in your garden? A pallet firewood shed ticks all the boxes. It’s also one of the most accessible and effective DIY firewood storage projects you can tackle with reclaimed materials.
Why it works
- Pallets are strong, breathable, and often free from garden centres or industrial yards.
- Their open slats encourage airflow, which helps your firewood dry out and season properly.
- Plus, it’s easy to scale the design up or down depending on how much wood you need to store.
What you’ll need
- 3–4 wooden pallets (for the base and sides)
- Timber offcuts or planks (for framing)
- Corrugated roofing sheet or reclaimed tiles
- Screws or nails, a drill or hammer, and a saw
Build tips
- Start by placing one pallet flat on the ground to keep your logs off damp soil.
- Then, stand two pallets upright as side walls and secure one across the back for extra support.
- Add timber planks across the top, then fit the roofing sheet at an angle so rain can run off.
- For added protection, consider installing a front rail or a slight roof overhang.
If you’re looking for a way to build a firewood rack with minimal cost and tools, this one’s a no-brainer.
Best for
- Gardens and backyards
- Storing larger firewood loads
- Anyone who loves upcycling and that rustic, no-fuss look
2. Indoor Wall-Mounted Firewood Rack
Want to store firewood indoors without taking up valuable floor space? A wall-mounted firewood rack is a stylish, space-saving solution — perfect if you’re into that clean, Scandinavian look. It’s also one of the simplest forms of DIY firewood storage you can try when you’re working with limited room.
Why it works
- It lifts logs off the floor and keeps them neatly stacked.
- You can customise the size to fit narrow gaps, alcoves, or empty corners.
- When filled with seasoned logs, it adds a rustic touch to your decor.
What you’ll need
- 2–3 strong wall brackets (steel or heavy-duty shelf brackets)
- Wooden planks or reclaimed timber
- Wall plugs and screws (matched to your wall type)
- Drill, level, and tape measure
Build tips
- Start by using a stud finder to locate secure mounting points, especially on drywall.
- Space your brackets evenly and double-check that everything’s level.
- Once installed, stack your logs neatly — but don’t overload the rack. Dry wood can be surprisingly heavy.
If you’re looking to build a firewood rack that doubles as home decor, this compact option delivers both form and function.
Best for
- Log burners or fireplaces inside the home
- Minimalist, modern interiors
- Flats, cabins, or small homes where space is limited
3. Cinder Block & 2×4 Rack
Need a fast, tool-free solution? The cinder block and 2×4 rack is perfect when you want to build a sturdy firewood holder in under 10 minutes — no screws, nails, or power tools required. It’s also one of the quickest forms of DIY firewood storage you can set up with minimal effort.
Why it works
- There’s no drilling involved — just stack the parts, and you’re good to go.
- Cinder blocks offer a solid, weather-resistant base that handles the weight.
- You can adjust the length or shape any time to suit your space.
What you’ll need
- 4 cinder blocks (or more if you’re going longer)
- 4–6 pieces of 2×4 timber (cut to your ideal width)
- A flat, level surface for setup
Build tips
- Start by placing two cinder blocks flat at each end, with the holes facing upward.
- Next, insert two 2x4s vertically into the block holes to form upright supports.
- Then, lay the remaining 2x4s across the base to create a simple platform.
- Finally, stack your logs — and that’s it! No measuring, no fuss.
Best for
- Quick, seasonal wood storage
- Sheds, patios, or tucked-away corners
- Beginners or anyone looking for an ultra-easy project
3. Cinder Block & 2×4 Rack
Need a fast, tool-free solution? The cinder block and 2×4 rack is perfect when you want to build a sturdy firewood holder in under 10 minutes — no screws, nails, or power tools required. It’s also one of the quickest forms of DIY firewood storage you can set up with minimal effort.
Why it works
- There’s no drilling involved — just stack the parts, and you’re good to go.
- Cinder blocks offer a solid, weather-resistant base that handles the weight.
- You can adjust the length or shape any time to suit your space.
What you’ll need
- 4 cinder blocks (or more if you’re going longer)
- 4–6 pieces of 2×4 timber (cut to your ideal width)
- A flat, level surface for setup
Build tips
- Start by placing two cinder blocks flat at each end, with the holes facing upward.
- Next, insert two 2x4s vertically into the block holes to form upright supports.
- Then, lay the remaining 2x4s across the base to create a simple platform.
- Finally, stack your logs — and that’s it! No measuring, no fuss.
Best for
- Quick, seasonal wood storage
- Sheds, patios, or tucked-away corners
- Beginners or anyone looking for an ultra-easy project
5. Rolling Firewood Cart
Tired of carrying heavy baskets of logs from your shed to the fireplace? A rolling firewood cart makes the job quicker, cleaner, and way more convenient. This compact mobile rack is perfect for short trips — and it keeps your space tidy, too. If you’re after a flexible piece of DIY firewood storage you can roll from shed to stove, this cart delivers.
Why it works
- It lets you roll firewood straight to your stove or fireplace with minimal effort.
- The cart helps contain bark and debris, keeping your floors cleaner.
- Its compact size means you can easily store it out of the way when not in use.
What you’ll need
- Metal tubing or wooden frame (about the size of a small trolley)
- Heavy-duty wheels or castors
- Screws or bolts, plus a drill, spanner, or screwdriver
- Optional: Add a handle for easier manoeuvring
Build tips
- Keep the weight low to prevent tipping while it’s rolling.
- Use slatted sides or a mesh base so loose debris can fall through.
- If using it indoors, consider lining the bottom with a tray to catch bark and dust.
- For a quick build, try repurposing an old sack barrow or garden cart.
Best for
- Moving firewood from outdoor storage to indoor use
- Keeping logs close to your stove or firepit
- Homes where space is tight and flexibility matters
Bonus: Where to Find Free Wood in the UK
Use our free Firewood Finder Tool to get started
Building your own firewood rack is rewarding — but filling it with free wood? That’s the real win. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to score free wood in the UK if you know where to look.
1. Facebook Marketplace & Gumtree
- Start by searching for “free wood near me” or “firewood giveaway.”
- Set up alerts so you’re first to jump on new listings.
- Keep an eye out for pallet giveaways, tree offcuts, or dismantled sheds.
2. Local Tree Surgeons & Arborists
- These pros regularly deal with log piles and woodchips they’re happy to get rid of.
- Reach out to your nearest tree service — many will even drop logs off for free or a small fee.
3. Recycling Centres & Industrial Estates
- Some council tips have wood piles specifically set aside for reuse — just check the rules in advance.
- Pallets, old furniture, and timber scraps from construction sites are often up for grabs. Just be sure to ask first.
4. Skip Dipping (with permission)
- If you spot useful wood in a skip outside a house or shop, politely ask the owner if you can take it.
- Remember: always get permission — never assume it’s free to take.
These are all excellent ways to stock up your DIY firewood storage setup without spending a penny.
For those sourcing logs or kindling, it’s also worth checking the UK government guidelines on wood fuel and legal requirements to stay informed.
Conclusion
With a bit of effort, some creativity, and a few reclaimed materials, creating your own DIY firewood storage is not only doable — it’s genuinely rewarding.
By now, you’ve got everything you need to keep your logs dry, organised, and within easy reach. Whether you went for a rugged pallet shed, a sleek indoor rack, or a mobile cart, you’ve added function and style to your firewood setup.
Here’s a quick recap of the 5 smart storage ideas we covered:
- Pallet Firewood Shed – rugged, roomy, and great for garden storage
- Wall-Mounted Indoor Rack – sleek, stylish, and ideal for small spaces
- Cinder Block & 2×4 Rack – simple, fast, and tool-free
- Covered Lean-To Store – weatherproof and perfect for year-round use
- Rolling Firewood Cart – portable, space-saving, and convenient
And remember — free firewood in the UK isn’t hard to find. With a little digging (and polite asking), you can score logs from local tree surgeons, online marketplaces, or even skips.
Final thoughts
So, what are you waiting for? Choose your favourite design, grab your tools, and start building. Your fireplace will thank you — and so will your wallet.
