Split the firewood with an axe. The more exposure the wood has to the air, the more quickly it will dry.
Stack the wood so that air circulates around it. Lay down a pallet in an area away from buildings. Place the first layer of wood on top of it. Stack the next level perpendicular to the first layer, log-cabin style.
Cover the stacked wood with a clear plastic sheet to protect it from rain and snow. The sides should be open to allow airflow so moisture can effectively evaporate.
Let the wood dry for six months to a year, according to Oregon State University. The time period will depend on the weather and the type of wood you have. When the ends are cracked, it's a good sign that the wood is sufficiently seasoned.
Open the fireplace flue when you're ready to start your fire. Push the flue handle, located in the fireplace, to rear of fireplace. This will allow the smoke to vent outside instead of building up in the house.
Place two seasoned logs parallel to each other in the fireplace. Crumple newspaper between them. Lay smaller sticks of kindling across the top of the two logs over the newspaper.
Light the newspaper on fire with a match. The kindling should catch and burn and light the logs under it. Once the fire is burning cleanly, adjust the flue by pulling or pushing the handle so you don't lose all your heat out the chimney.