Keeping firewood dry and neatly stacked is essential for any homeowner who relies on a fireplace, wood stove, or outdoor fire pit. In this step-by-step project, I’ll show you how to build a modern 6×12 lean-to firewood shed that can hold up to three cords of firewood while adding a sleek, functional element to your backyard. This design is built for durability and efficiency, featuring a sturdy raised floor, a slatted enclosure for airflow, and a lean-to roof for weather protection. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or tackling your first outdoor structure, this shed is a great weekend project that will keep your firewood dry and ready to burn all season long.
Building this 6×12 firewood shed is a cost-effective project that can be completed over a weekend. Depending on material prices and whether you use pressure-treated lumber or upgrade to cedar or redwood, the total cost will range between $500 and $900. With just basic tools and some DIY effort, you’ll have a sturdy, weather-resistant storage solution that keeps your firewood dry and well-organized. No more dealing with damp, hard-to-burn wood or messy stacks in your yard, this shed will make your life easier and your firewood supply more reliable all year round.
When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day.
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Modern 6×12 Firewood Shed – DIY Plans
Building-a-modern-firewood-shed
Cut and Shopping Lists
A – 3 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 12 ft SKIDS
B – 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 12 ft FLOOR FRAME
B – 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 12 ft FLOOR FRAME
C – 17 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 12 ft FLOOR
D – 6 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 89″ UPRIGHTS
D – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 76 3/4″ UPRIGHTS
D – 3 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 66 1/4″ UPRIGHTS
E – 1 piece of 2×6 lumber – 12 ft TOP BEAM FRONT
F – 1 piece of 2×8 lumber – 12 ft TOP BEAM BACK
Tools
Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level
Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander
Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses
Time
One week
Related
- Modern 18×20 Lean to pavilion plans
- Modern 2 cord firewood shed plans
- PART 1: Modern 6×12 Firewood Shed Plans
- PART 2: Roof Plans for 6×12 Wood Shed
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Step 1: Building the floor frame
Floor-frame
Start this project by building the floor frame for the modern firewood storage shed. Cut the 2×6 joists to size and lay them out on a flat, level surface. Drill pilot holes through the rim joists and secure the perpendicular joists using 3 1/2″ screws. Space the joists 16 inches on center (OC) for solid support, driving in two screws at each joint.
Before moving forward, measure the diagonals of the frame and adjust as needed until they’re equal—this step ensures a perfectly square foundation for the shed.
Attaching-the-skids
Move the shed frame to its final location and evenly space the 4×4 skids, following the diagram for proper placement. Once the skids are set, lift the floor frame and position it flush on top. Secure the frame to the skids using rafter ties (H2.5A or similar) and 1 1/2″ structural screws. Install two ties per skid to keep the floor solid and stable, ensuring a strong foundation for the shed.
Fitting-the-floor-slats
Lay the 2×4 boards over the floor frame, using 3/4″ plywood spacers between them to maintain consistent gaps. Make sure the boards are aligned flush with both sides of the shed for a clean and uniform look. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, then drive 2 1/2″ screws through the boards into the floor frame to lock them in place. This setup allows for proper airflow while keeping the firewood off the ground.
Step 2: Building the uprights
Corner-posts
Cut the 2×4 lumber to size for the uprights, then lay the components on a flat, level surface. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, then secure the pieces together with 3 1/2″ screws, spacing them every 8″ for a strong connection. Apply wood glue to the joints and make sure the edges are perfectly flush before tightening everything down. This step ensures sturdy and well-aligned corner uprights for the shed frame.
Attaching-the-posts
Position the uprights onto the floor frame of the firewood shed, centering the back and side supports at the middle points of the frame. Use a spirit level to ensure the uprights are perfectly plumb before securing them. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, then drive in 3″ lag screws to lock them in place. Use at least two screws per joint to create a strong and stable structure.
Top-beam—back-end
With the posts securely in place, it’s time to install the top support beam at the back of the firewood shed. Position the beam so it sits flush with the top of the side posts. Drill pilot holes, then drive 3 1/2″ screws through the side posts into the beam for a strong connection.
To reinforce the structure, attach L ties at the corners and a T tie in the middle, following the diagram for proper placement. Secure the ties with 1 1/2″ structural screws, ensuring everything is locked in tightly. This step adds crucial stability to the shed, keeping it strong and long-lasting.
Top-front-beam
Install the support beam at the front of the wood shed, making sure it sits flush with the top of the uprights. Drill pilot holes, then drive 3 1/2″ screws through the side posts into the beam to create a solid connection.
To reinforce the structure, attach L ties at the joints where the top beam meets the front uprights. Secure the ties with structural screws, following the diagram for proper placement. This extra bracing will ensure the shed remains strong and stable over time.
How to build a 6×12 firewood shed
Back view – 3 cord firewood shed
With the frame now complete, your firewood shed is starting to take shape. In PART 2, I’ll walk you through building the roof and attaching the enclosing slats on the sides and back, giving your shed both protection and a clean, finished look. Stay tuned for the next steps!
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This woodworking project was about 6×12 firewood shed plans. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.
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