Fireplace Log Rack

Information on firewood to keep that fireplace burning



There is something special about wood burning in a fireplace that makes firewood so popular even though modern technology offers other ways of heating. However, to keep that fireplace crackling and the log rack full requires a steady supply of firewood. With a basic understanding of firewood, this task becomes easier.

Different types of firewood
Firewood, like wood in general, has two basic classifications. Hardwood, generally defined as trees that lose their leaves in winter, and softwoods, such as pines, that do not.

Hard vs. soft
With their high BTU (energy) content and greater density, hardwood produces a high, intense heat from a more compact volume. It also burns longer and emits less smoke and other exhaust particles that will crust a chimney. However, it is harder to start and costs more. Some of the best hardwoods for firewood include red oak, sugar maple and rock elm.

Softwoods such as basswood, white pine and spruce are less dense, do not burn as long and produce less heat. They will also contain more sap (even when properly seasoned) that will eventually crust the chimney and make for dirtier handling. However, they are less expensive and start easier. This makes softwood the best for kindling.

Seasoning firewood
Wood that is not properly seasoned (dried) will be heavier and more susceptible to mold and other problems. Worst of all, it will not burn as well and much of the heat will be lost in water vapor as steam. For this reason, all firewood needs to be seasoned.

While exactly how much seasoning is needed is a matter of debate, a year of more is recommended. A healthy tree consists of 60% or more of moisture and freshly cut wood around 50%. Firewood should be around 20% or less when it is burned. To properly dry, firewood needs to be kept off the ground and stacked in a way that allows good air circulation. 

What to look for in properly seasoned firewood
When firewood is not properly seasoned, it will be heavier, have more of a uniform color, may show signs of mold or fungus and will have more intact bark.

On the other hand, firewood that is properly seasoned will have lost much of its bark, lack smell, be free of mold, have cracks and will have lost wood color. A good sound test is to bang together two logs. If they make a “clanging” sound, it is a sign of properly seasoned wood (vs. a dull “thud” for wood that has not been seasoned fully).

Kiln dried firewood is cleaner, bug free and will have a consistent moisture content of around 20%. However, it takes more energy to produce and will cost more.

Obtaining firewood
For those who own or have free accesses to wooded areas, acquiring ones’ own firewood can be quite cheap. However, felling trees can be dangerous, and it requires considerable labor to cut, split and transport the wood.

For most, particularly those who live in urban areas, using wood brokers or delivery services is more common. Before making any purchase, besides considering the type and seasoning, make sure the wood is cut to the right size. Logs that are too big for the fireplace will not fit and those that are cut too small will be less convenient and require more trips to transport them.

By understanding firewood, one can better use it. This will make maintaining the fireplace a bit easier and increase the charm having one.