July 5
th, 2024 in
Decking Blocks
Building your own log store is a fantastic way to ensure your firewood stays dry and well-organised. Not only is it practical, but it can also be a rewarding DIY project. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of building a sturdy and efficient log store using concrete decking blocks. This method is both durable and relatively straightforward, even for those new to DIY projects.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools:
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Materials
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Tools
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Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Planning and Preparation
- Choose the Location: Select a site that is flat and well-drained. Ideally, it should be close to your house for convenience but far enough to reduce the risk of pests.
- Measure the Area: Decide the dimensions of your wood store based on your firewood needs. A typical size might be around 1.2 meters wide, 2 meters high, and 0.5 meters deep.
Step 2: Preparing the Base
- Ground Preparation: Clear the area of any debris and vegetation. You may want to lay a weed membrane to prevent weed growth.
- Position the Concrete Decking Blocks: Place the concrete decking blocks on the prepared ground. Ensure they are level and evenly spaced. These blocks will act as the foundation, keeping the timber off the ground and reducing moisture.
Step 3: Building the Frame
- Cut the Timber: Measure and cut the treated timber to size for the frame. You will need pieces for the base, sides, and top.
- Assemble the Base: Lay out the base frame on the concrete blocks. Use galvanised screws or nails to secure the timber together. Make sure it is square and level.
- Construct the Uprights: Attach the upright posts to the base frame. These will support the sides and the roof. Ensure they are vertical using a level.
- Build the Sides: Attach horizontal timber pieces between the uprights to form the sides. You can add more horizontal pieces for additional support and aesthetics.
Step 4: Adding the Roof
- Frame the Roof: Create a simple roof frame with a slight slope to allow rainwater to run off. Attach this to the top of the uprights.
- Attach the Roofing Material: Secure your chosen roofing material to the roof frame. Corrugated plastic or metal sheets are ideal as they provide excellent protection from the elements.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Add Shelving (Optional): If you want multiple levels for storing different sizes of logs, add shelves within the frame. Use treated timber and ensure they are securely attached.
- Paint or Stain the Wood: To extend the life of your log store, consider painting or staining the wood with a weatherproof exterior wood treatment.
- Final Inspection: Check the stability of the structure, ensuring all joints are secure and the wood store is level.
Additional Tips
- Ventilation: Ensure there is enough space between the slats of the pallets to allow air circulation, which helps to keep the firewood dry.
- Accessibility: Design the wood store with easy access in mind, making it simple to load and unload firewood.
- Customisation: Personalise your homemade log store with additional features like shelves for kindling, hooks for tools, or decorative elements that match your garden’s aesthetic.
Building your own log store using concrete decking blocks is a practical and rewarding project. By following these steps, you’ll create a sturdy and attractive storage solution that keeps your firewood dry and ready for use. Remember, the key to a successful wood store is ensuring it’s well-ventilated and protected from ground moisture, both of which are achieved with the use of concrete decking blocks and a solid construction technique.
Happy building! If you have any questions or tips of your own, feel free to share them in the comments below.
2. The memorial plaque foundation base.
