I found the following article. It is supposed to be an illustrated guide but there is only one small picture. I’m assuming that any pictures are unavailable due to the age of the article, which dates back to 1986.
Also, note the alternate spelling, Holzhau
fen.
This article addresses a question I had without giving a possible solution. Is there any easy way to build a pile like this on a slight to moderate incline? Perhaps by using a smaller diameter and not building it quite so high?
Directions are given for using a board with a hole (to slide over the pole) to maintain the proper diameter as the logs are placed.
Mother Earth News
Holzhaufen - November/December 1986
(broken link removed to http://www.motherearthnews.com/DIY/1986-11-01/Holzhaufen.aspx)
“If the ground isn't level, the pile could tip, so choose your spot carefully.”
“Remember, though, that this is a curing stack; if you want your dried wood to be easily accessible, and don't want to restack it, don't build a holzhaufen that's higher than you can reach.”
“Once the holzhaufen's foundation is in place, lay the first course of logs. Again, slide the board up the pole and use it as a guide; as you position each log, make sure its outer end is precisely even with a board end, to maintain the pile's diameter. It's important, too, to resist the tendency to lay the logs parallel to one another; although they should be placed as close together as possible, they must extend radially from the center outward, like the spokes of a wheel. “
I just found a thread from July of 2006. It looks like Mo Heat built an one on a slight incline, but not as steep as our back yard. I wonder how Mo's held up. Also, there was some discussion about whether they live up to the 3 month drying claim. Perhaps Mo could update us.
Holz Hausen (Huafen) pics 3/18/06
https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/1726/
~Cath
