put another log on the fire

How to cut and stack firewood and make garden mulch from the leftovers...

You will need

Chaps
Safety goggles
Helmet and visor
Earmuffs
Chainsaw
Wood-splitter
Wood chipper

Firewood stack supplies

Instructions

Firewood stack supplies Materials:
Collect everything you require for the project.

Step 1 - pruning branches Step 1:
Prune off any branches and small ends less than 50mm in diameter. These can be set side for chipping or garden mulch.

Step 2 - cutting the log into rings Step 2:
Using the chainsaw, cut log into rings approximately 350mm in length.

Step 3 - splitting the rings with the wood splitter Step 3:
Using the wood-splitter, split the rings into manageable sections.

Step 4:
For best results, stack your firewood in the open, off the ground, and in long straight rows. The triangular shape of the split wood will help it lock together. Stack to a maximum height of approximately 1.2m to ensure stability, and cover only the tops of the stacks.

Tip: Softer woods like pine will dry off the fastest, with denser timbers taking considerably longer.

Step 5:
Feed leftover small ends and branches into the chipper to make garden mulch. This will provide weed cover, retain moisture in the summer and insulate from frosts in the winter.

Tip: Softer woods like pine will dry off the fastest, with denser timbers taking considerably longer.

Present your Resene DIY card for a 15% discount at all Hirepool outlets.

words: with thanks to Hirepool
pictures: with thanks to Hirepool

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winter 2007, issue 06

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