Firewood Longevity: Climate Determines Storage Life

White oak firewood on pallets (plastic, gaps, tin roof). 5-6 year supply. Owner (59) asks how long it lasts for furnace burning.

Answer: Climate-Dependent

• Southern US: Decay starts ~year 3 (humidity).
• Western US: Lasts many years (dry).
• Key factor: Humidity drives decay fungi.

Burning Decayed Wood

Even rotten wood burns — just faster than sound wood. No need to stop cutting if you can manage the supply.