Firewood Storage Mistakes That Invite Termites & Ants Before Spring in Lebanon, MO

Many Lebanon homeowners rely on firewood throughout the winter. But as February and March arrive, warming temperatures cause termite and ant activity to increase—especially in and around firewood stacks. Poor firewood storage can accidentally bring wood-destroying pests right up to your home before spring even starts.

By understanding the most common firewood storage mistakes, you can prevent termites, carpenter ants, and other pests from using your woodpile as a launching point into your home.

Why Firewood Attracts Termites & Ants

Firewood naturally attracts insects, but termites and ants are especially drawn to it. Here's why firewood becomes a magnet for pest activity in Lebanon:

• Moisture: Snow, rain, and winter humidity keep logs damp—ideal conditions for termites.
• Direct ground contact: Wood touching soil gives termites immediate access from underground colonies.
• Shelter: Stacked wood offers insulation, warmth, and undisturbed hiding places.
• Food source: Decaying logs feed both termites and carpenter ants.

As temperatures warm near March, these pests begin scouting for new food sources—often the nearest home’s structure.

Firewood Storage Mistakes Lebanon Homeowners Should Avoid

1. Storing Firewood Against the House

This is the biggest mistake. When wood touches the siding or foundation, ants and termites have a direct bridge into the home. Even a small gap or crack is enough for them to slip inside.

2. Keeping the Woodpile Directly on the Ground

Wood stored on soil absorbs moisture and becomes an instant target for subterranean termites, which are widespread in central Missouri. Ground contact also speeds up decay.

3. Leaving Firewood Uncovered All Winter

Rain, snow, and ice create damp logs. Moisture-loving pests infest these logs faster and stay sheltered until spring.

4. Storing Large Quantities Too Close to Doors or Porches

Convenient? Yes. Smart? No. Carpenter ants often follow trails from woodpiles into warm indoor spaces.

5. Never Rotating or Moving the Pile

When firewood remains undisturbed for months, pests build hidden colonies inside. Moving the pile occasionally helps expose unwanted activity.

6. Ignoring Rotten or Decaying Wood

Rotten logs are irresistible to termites. Leaving decaying wood in the stack allows pests to multiply and spread.

Safe Firewood Storage Tips for Lebanon, MO

With a few simple adjustments, you can store firewood without attracting pests to your home.

1. Keep Firewood at Least 20–30 Feet Away from the Home

The farther away the pile is, the harder it is for pests to migrate indoors.

2. Elevate the Pile

Use a firewood rack, concrete blocks, bricks, or pallets to keep wood off the soil.

3. Cover Only the Top of the Woodpile

A partial cover keeps snow and rain off while allowing airflow to reduce moisture buildup.

4. Bring Wood Indoors Only When Needed

Never store firewood inside for long periods; pests in the logs may emerge in the warm indoor air.

5. Rotate the Stack Frequently

Use older pieces first and shift logs occasionally to discourage pest colonies.

6. Remove Rotting Logs Immediately

Discard any soft, decaying, or heavily infested pieces to prevent spreading.

Signs Termites or Ants Are Moving From Firewood Toward Your Home

• Ant trails or activity near the firewood stack
• Termite mud tubes near foundation walls
• Hollow-sounding or crumbling logs
• Winged ants or termite swarmers emerging on warm days
• Sawdust-like frass from carpenter ants

When to Call a Professional

If you notice signs of wood-destroying insects around your firewood or near your home, a professional inspection can prevent a small problem from becoming a costly one. Termites can especially spread quickly in early spring.

Plank Termite & Pest Control provides year-round termite and ant prevention for Lebanon, MO homeowners.

Call 573-368-3333 to schedule a firewood inspection or request spring pest protection today.