Free woodworking plan

Outdoor Firewood Rack

Difficulty: Beginner · Estimated time: about 3 hr of hands-on work, not counting glue and finish drying or cure time

A raised firewood rack that keeps logs dry and off the ground.

Build a sturdy rack from pressure-treated (PT) or cedar 2x4s with uprights and side rails. Elevates wood for airflow. The cuts are simple; the main challenges are the size and setting it level outdoors.

Materials

• PT or cedar 2x4 — 8 @ 8 ft
• Exterior screws — 2-1/2" and 3"
• Concrete landscape blocks (optional feet) — 4
• Roofing tin or plywood scrap for optional cover brackets — optional

Tools

• Circular or miter saw
• Drill/driver
• Square, tape, level
• Safety glasses
• Clamps (optional)

Safety: Power tools and finishes can cause serious injury. Read and follow every tool and product manual, use guards and push sticks, wear eye and hearing protection, and work in a ventilated area. These plans are for general information; check measurements and your own skill before cutting. You build at your own risk, and Handy at Home is not liable for injury or damage. See the Terms.

Steps

1. Cut uprights and rails

   Cut four uprights (~48"), long base rails to suit your row length (a row about 8 ft long needs rails of about 96" or more), and short end rails. Cut bunks/slats for the bed.

   • Size to your stacked row length.
   • Choose straight PT to avoid twisted racks.

2. Assemble the ends

   Build two end frames (uprights + short rails). Keep them identical and square.

   • Assemble on level ground.
   • Double-screw joints that carry load.

3. Join with long rails and bunks

   Connect ends with long rails; add bunks so wood sits above soil. Check the rack does not rack diagonally.

   • Elevating wood greatly reduces rot and pests.
   • Leave side gaps for airflow.

4. Set in place and load

   Set feet on blocks or gravel. Stack bark-side up/out as you prefer; do not climb the rack. Cover the top of the pile, leave sides open.

   • Wear gloves — splinters and insects are common.
   • Keep the rack away from the house siding a few inches.

Always follow your tools’ safety instructions and wear eye protection. Free for personal use; please don’t resell or republish these plans.

© 2026 Handy at Home. Plan text and images are free for personal use only.