Choose a dry, level, well-drained location
Keep the stack off the ground using pallets, rails, or a rack
Place the largest, flattest pieces on the bottom
Align pieces neatly and keep the stack straight
Leave small gaps between pieces for airflow
Stack bark-side up if splitting encourages shedding water
Cross-stack the ends for stability
Build the stack no higher than it can remain stable
Keep the top level or slightly sloped to shed water
Cover only the top of the stack, not the sides
Secure the cover so wind cannot remove it
Keep the stack away from walls and fences
Separate different wood sizes or moisture levels if needed
Re-stack loose pieces as they shift
Keep the area clear of debris and pests