I have some Red Oak that has been air drying since September.  I know it is still no where near dry enough to use, but I am wondering where to store it for the summer to best get it ready for eventual use.  I figure I have 3 options:

1) Leave it where it is. This would be behind the house in an area that gets direct afternoon sun. This is in Nortern Wisconsin. I felt fine leaving it there for the winter, but am not sure about the summer. It is well tarped, and I am considering building something real simple (along the lines of a roof supported by some 4×4’s) to keep it out of the sun and rain.  Also, do I want the tarp to go all the way to the ground, or leave as is to let the air circulate.

2) Move the pile to the north side of the garage.  This would help shield it from the wind and keep it out direct sunlight. Again, I would probably build something to cover it to keep it as dry as possible.  If I went with option 1 or 2, I would leave it out there at least all summer and then bring it in to dry to usable moisture levels as I needed it.

3) Put it in the uninsulated, unheated garage. This is the least desirable.  The car has to be able to fit, so the pile would end up 2 boards wide and 8 feet tall. Alternatively some of the wood could fit in the rafters, but I am worried the heat swings will warp it to uselessness.  Also, am I correct in guessing it still won’t dry to usable levels for furniture?

What does anyone who has faced this situation recommend I do?  Following is a picture of the pile.

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