Choosing logs can be difficult, especially if you’ve never done it before. With so many different types of wood on offer, identifying what’s right for you can be daunting. Understanding common types of firewood that are available commercially and the difference between them can be a big help. Moisture content is something that you’ll see talked about a lot in the world of firewood. This is an important factor that you’ll need to consider when choosing logs. If this is all still sounding a bit intimidating, don’t panic! We’ve put together some useful information to help you with all of this and understanding which wood types make the perfect kiln dried logs.

What Does Kiln Dried Mean?

It’s first important to understand what the term “kiln dried” means. All it means is that the logs have been dried using a kiln before being offered for sale to the public. A kiln is essentially a giant oven that allows for logs to be dried in a controlled way, to assure the ideal moisture content. The humidity of the kiln as well as the temperature to quickly prepare the wood for burning without the need for air drying. To burn logs at home efficiently, you’ll need logs that have been prepared either by being kiln-dried or air-dried.

Understanding moisture content

Moisture content is particularly important when talking about something that you’re wanting to burn. Naturally, when we talk about “moisture”, we essentially mean water. Most people agree that fire and water aren’t a great mix unless your goal is to put out a fire of course. Freshly felled wood can have a water content of nearly 50%, which is understandable as trees rely on water to survive. If you attempt to burn wood with a moisture content this high, however, you’ll simply produce steam. Therefore, a seasoning process such as kiln drying, or air drying is necessary. It is recommended that for effective and efficient burning, firewood moisture content should be less than 20%.

1. Ash

You’ve probably heard of ash being used for many different reasons. It’s a strong and durable wood that has a natural ability to absorb shock, which is why it’s often used in sports equipment. Ash is also excellent for burning due to its density. Its moisture content is naturally low, but it still requires drying before it can be burned efficiently. As its fibres are close together, Ash burns for an exceptionally long time. One Ash log with a moisture content of approximately 20% can produce nearly 3000kwh per cubic metre. Ash produces its best heat output when it has been kiln-dried and is thought by many to be one of the best hardwoods for burning.

2. Oak

Many people will know oak to be a wood that is used in high-quality furniture making. The reason for this is that it is extraordinarily strong because of how dense it is, it also has antifungal qualities. Oak is also popular among many people as it burns for a long time and reaches considerably high temperatures, which is why it is also often used in commercial pizza ovens. Oak is best burned in small pieces for small wood burners. What makes oak great firewood for kiln drying is its density, it is very heavy and as such, air-drying can be a long process.

3. Hornbeam

Hornbeam is a wood type that you may not have heard of. It has gained popularity in recent years and has gained a reputation that has resulted in it being referred to as “ironwood”. It is essentially very dense and burns for a long time with very visually appealing flames. It’s a great option for anyone who feels they are refuelling their log burner too often. Preparing hornbeam for burning is an intensive process and is best left in a kiln. It is similar to ash but burns for a longer duration and gives off noticeably more heat, it can however be slightly trickier to light but once it is burning it's one of the best "all-rounder" logs.

4. Birch

Birch is a type of wood that is often used in furniture making or in the production of wooden toys. It is also a great wood to be kiln-dried. Birch is naturally quite easy to light fires with, so when it is kiln dried it becomes even better. Some people struggle to get a fire lit, so birch can be a great option. However, it does burn quicker than many other types of wood, which is why it is usually better to burn it with other slower-burning types such as oak, ash or hornbeam.

5. Beech

Beech has a high moisture content, which is why kiln drying is one of the most effective ways of ensuring it is fit for burning. As a firewood, it burns quite quickly but gives off a pleasant smell and does give a good heat output. It doesn’t light as easily as other types of wood but once lit it promises a pleasing visual display. Its smell, appearance and heat output make it great firewood for anyone looking to create a true log fire experience. Beech is often used in furniture making, flooring and even in the production of many different types of musical instruments.

Summary

Kiln dried logs are an ideal option for anyone looking to create wood fires with minimal hassle. You can even try a kiln dried ash logs net or choose from many other kiln dried logs nets that we offer before committing to buying a larger quantity. We stock a variety of wood types and provide a range of different quantities to suit you. Whether you're looking for kiln dried oak log nets, bulk bags or crates, we have options to suit everyone. We also provide mixed kiln dried logs in several quantities for those looking for a low-cost versatile kiln dried solution. If you require any more information about any of the kiln dried logs that we offer, please do not hesitate to contact us.