how long does it take for split hard wood to dry outside?

Answer 1

Longer than it takes if you have a chance to store it in a proper woodshed. If there is a roof over it, it will not keep absorbing the rain water that is liable to fall on it during the winter, when you need it most. If there is a floor under it, it will not absorb as much moisture from the ground. If there are walls around it, it will be less likely to absorb moisture out of the passing air. Also, Softwoods take less time to dry, but the denser the wood, the more heat it will produce, so cord for cord, most domestic hardwoods produce more BTU's than domestic softwoods.

Answer 2

If you stacked the wood outdoors uncovered, and with the flesh side up besides, that wood has been rain and moisture soaked, I'm just saying, if that's the case this may be your problem, In the future stack the wood with the Bark side up so any rain that hits the wood , hits the bark first,, The stack should be covered accross the middle, leaving some of the ends open so that the Air can circulate through the stacked wood. And On the other hand , when stacking wood in a barn or garage, the wood is stacked opposite, the flesh side up for max drying. I too have taken downed trees in , but since it's lying on the ground, regardless of it being dead, the moisture content is very high,

Answer 3

I am a tree feller and sell firewood. It can take up to three years for oak and maple to cure, compared to one season for soft woods like pine. Do not cover it with a tarp or it will get moldy.

Answer 4

It needs to season about 6 months before use.

Answer 5

One year I think.