Do winters make you feel excited about bonfires in front of cozy fireplaces or are you a camper collecting wood for the weekend wilderness? To make this happen, it is essential to have dry wood that catches fire easily to dance in the hot flames. Yet, in the battle against the elements, even the sturdiest of wood can falter without proper protection. Here enters the unsung hero of the woodpile – Firewood rack covers!
These covers shield the wood from rain and moisture, preventing the accumulation of mould and mildew. But much like the firewood they protect, they also require proper maintenance to be able to fulfil their duty properly.
Indoor or outdoor, firewood rack covers are a necessity to protect the logs from developing moisture and keeping them ready-to-burn in the winter season. In this article, we will know about the ways we can maintain the log rack covers to protect them from wear and tear and other unwanted damage.
9 Tips for Maintaining Firewood Covers
1. Regular Cleaning
Clean your firewood covers regularly to remove the dirt, debris or other elements that may accumulate over time. You may use a soft brush or cloth to sweep away the dirt gently or wash it with water and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals for abrasive cleaning as it may deteriorate or damage the material.
2. Inspect for Damage
Frequently inspect your firewood covers for signs of wear and tear, holes or weak spots. Keenly examine the seams, edges, and other areas where stress or friction may occur. In case of any damage, immediately repair it using patching materials or sewing techniques.
3. Protect Custom Printing
If your custom firewood rack covers are personalized with special prints like logos, patterns, or other designs, pay special attention to it while cleaning. Don’t rub or scrub directly on the printed area to avoid fading or damage. Use gentle cleaning methods and immediately spot clean stains or spills to prevent permanent marks.
4. Ensure Ventilation
Check that the firewood covers allow for proper ventilation to prevent moisture formation. If the covers have ventilation mesh installed, ensure that it is not blocked and properly cleaned to maintain airflow and prevent mold and mildew growth.
5. Ensure Proper Fit
Custom fire pit covers are specifically designed to provide a proper snug fit to your fire pits or log racks. Ensure that it securely covers the woodpile and provides complete protection. Check for loose and saggy ends and if required, adjust the cover as needed for a proper fit.
6. Secure Fastenings
Ensure that the cover fastenings like grommets, Velcro, zipper, or elastic hems are in good condition and securely fastened. Replace any damaged or worn-out fasteners to maintain a proper fit and prevent the cover from blowing away during windy days.
7. Adjust for Seasonal Changes
You may need to adjust your covers, especially outdoor covers, depending on the weather and season. Whether using outdoor log rack cover or outdoor kitchen cover for your outside parties, both must be securely fastened to prevent moisture during snowy or rainy days. During dry or windy days, ensure to have them snugly fitted to prevent flapping in winds.
8. Store Properly When Not in use
When the cover is not in use, store it properly in a dry and sheltered place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Fold or roll the cover neatly avoiding wrinkles and creases to maintain the material quality. Avoid storing in damp or humid conditions as it could lead to growth of mould.
9. Replace When Required
If your cover has been damaged beyond repair, consider replacing it immediately, as it will no longer provide safe wood to burn in the fireplace. Consider purchasing heavy-duty firewood rack covers made of durable and high-quality material to provide long-lasting protection.
The above tips are also applicable for protecting your BBQ covers or chiminea covers. Even after following all the maintenance tips for log rack covers, there are chances that your woodpile may develop insects or is no longer safe to be burnt in the fireplace. To avoid such situations, below are some tips to store the firewood accurately indoors and outdoors.
Things to Remember for Storing Firewood Indoors
- Location: Select a dry and well-ventilated area inside the home and avoid places with high humidity or direct sunlight.
- Raised Platform: The indoor firewood rack should be elevated from the ground to minimize moisture absorption from the floor.
- Air Circulation: Place the firewood loosely to allow proper air circulation between the pieces to promote drying and prevent mold and mildew formation.
- Cover the Rack: Ensure to cover the log rack with breathable covers to protect it from dust and debris during airflow.
- Pest Inspection: Periodically inspect the firewood for pests. If any wood is infected, immediately remove it to avoid spreading.
Things to Remember for Storing Firewood Outdoors
- Location: Pick dry and well-drained areas outside your home. Avoid low-lying areas and those prone to flooding.
- Elevated Platform: Keep the rack raised-up to ensure proper protection for your outside firewood. Year-round security is possible if the logs aren’t exposed to moisture from the soil.
- Position at a Distance: Place your log rack at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, or any other structure to prevent pests from entering the place.
- Cover the Rack: Ensure to cover the log rack with breathable covers to protect it from dust and debris during airflow.
- Rotate the Stack: Rotate the firewood stack regularly to ensure even drying and prevent moisture buildup. Use older wood first and replenish the stack with new wood, as needed.
To conclude, if you want your firewood to remain dry, well-ventilated, and ready to use when required, it is essential to follow the above-mentioned tips dedicatedly. Don’t forget to transform your outdoor space by choosing the perfect outdoor colour for winters.
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