Inspired by my time here I want to construct a proper woodlot. I would like to see what you all think would be important considerations on location. I have 40 acres so space really isn't a limiting factor. I'm just thinking orientation of stacks, I don't know. Maybe pics of what you guys got going? Thanks, Hellbent
I'd pick the spot with the most Sun, wind, and that's easy to get to if it's muddy. Also don't put it in a spot that's prone to flood if that's an issue. Make the stacks so that the prevailing wind will blow through them. So if your wind is from the west or east your stack should go north & south. Here's a shot and mine from awhile back.
If you mean a processing and stacking area, Id say put it as close to the house as possible. You want it to be a sunny and windy area, but also convenient
Another consideration is sightlines from your home. A firewood work area can be an eyesore to some. I suppose it would depend on the people you live with and what works for you and them.
I only have a half acre so my options were limited. I stacked on the only area in my backyard that was flat. It doesn't get a ton of sun but the entire lower end of our property including the driveway is like a wind tunnel. I'm seeing seasoning times that seem very fast for the types of wood I'm splitting. I would say where you get the most wind..
Sorry I wasn't clear. Yes, I was wanting one main area where I could buck (I usually do in the field though), split, and stack. The trick is with not having a loader tractor it's hard for me to move any real quantity of wood easily. Also I was looking to see what features you thought most important, ie: sunny location, easy to access, doesn't get muddy, close to shop or electricity I'm doing it now in my "backyard" but my stacks are growing (I lay the blame with all of you here at FHC) and it's getting to be the first thing people notice when they pull up to my house. Another thing I am paranoid about is theft of my wooden gold, so I was thinking back in one of my fields. I have no real reason to think anyone would do that in my area, but I don't want to have to whip out a scatter gun or a saw on them...
To me the best qualities would be wind and an easy place to get in and out of. Sunshine would help a lot (usually sunny places have wind) but even in the shade wind will dry the wood easily. Not sure about that loader tractor. We don't have one and get along just fine. Many on this forum also use only a lawn mower or garden tractor and a small trailer to move their wood. Tractors indeed are nice and can save you a lot of work sometimes but there are drawbacks too. First is the paying for the machine and then the upkeep which can add to a lot depending upon the unit and how it is cared for. Another thing I've always noticed is those with tractors tend to use them even if it is not called for. Many times they could make do with less, like an atv, lawn mower, etc. but they have that tractor and feel the need to use it. Before you buy, make real certain that you absolutely need it rather than just wanting it.
