Step into a world of extraordinary firewood, where hidden wonders and astonishing qualities abound. Join us on a journey to discover 8 surprising facts about the best firewood and premium quality logs that will leave you in awe. Brace yourself for a captivating exploration of the best firewood, where every log tells a fascinating tale!

FACT 1 - Firewood artillery - unveiling the power of wood as a weapon

The first of our firewood facts is its role in artillery, which may come as a surprise to many. In history, quality firewood played a crucial role in the creation of powerful weapons, including cannons. Charcoal, derived from specific woods, was utilised as a key component in the production of gunpowder. The process involved carefully burning the wooden logs in a low-oxygen environment to produce high-quality charcoal. This charcoal, when mixed with other ingredients, created potent gunpowder, driving the cannons' explosive force.

Beyond its explosive application, premium wooden logs found use in constructing wooden cannons, known as "wooden artillery." These lightweight, portable cannons were often made from tough woods like oak wood and beech, allowing for rapid deployment on battlefields. Their ability to deliver projectiles with precision made them indispensable in various military campaigns.

While the use of wood in artillery may seem peculiar, it showcases the resourcefulness of historical warfare and how premium firewood, in unexpected ways, played a significant role in shaping the course of history.

FACT 2 - Firewood flame shapes - unravelling the dance!

Among many of the best firewood facts, the enchanting dance of flames from burning wood captivates the imagination. Each kiln dried (seasoned) wood species brings its unique characteristics to the dance of flames, offering a visual feast that complements the comforting crackle of the fire and gives good heat output.

As seasoned firewood burns, exploring the diverse flame shapes of burning wood adds an extra layer of enchantment to the timeless pleasure of gathering around a cosy fire in the UK.

Explore below these wood burning tips for great flames with minimal smoke from kiln dried firewood (with low moisture content). Not all wood is the same or created equal, hardwoods tend to be the best firewood to create a hot fire and burn include:

• Ash flames – dense hardwoods like ash firewood logs burn cleanly, have a pleasant smell and are known for their excellent burning properties and offer flames that shimmer and dance gracefully
• Birch flames - birch firewood logs burn efficiently across the UK and are known for their graceful flickering flames, casting a mesmerising play of light and shadows, creating an inviting ambience
• Oak flames - another good firewood choice, especially for a slow burning fire. Oak firewood logs burn hotter than most other woods producing bold and steady flames. As the wood burns hot, oak radiates a comforting warmth, a beautiful glow, and more heat
• Beech firewood – this excellent firewood burns with a “clean burn” and provides high heat output, kiln dried beech firewood logs deliver a vibrant dance of flames that dance with elegance and charm

Starting fires and ignition

Softwood burns quickly due to its lower density and higher resin content. They produce less heat but are a popular choice for kindling and starting fires. Make sure it is seasoned (visible cracks should show) for low moisture content and less smoke output.

Treated wood flames

Never use treated wood, irrespective of the flame produced! This is treated with chemicals to make it resistant to decay and insects, and burning it releases harmful chemicals, toxins, and pollutants into the air.

FACT 3 – Premium firewood used as medicine

Amidst the enchanting dance of firewood flames, certain trees have a history of being valued for their medicinal properties. The therapeutic potential of these premium quality logs echoes the historical wisdom that recognised the healing powers of nature's gifts:

• Anti-inflammatory beech – this tree is renowned for its medicinal bark. Historically, beech bark was employed in traditional medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, offering remedies for a range of health issues
• Healing hazel wood – this possesses unique medicinal qualities. Historically, hazel wood was associated with healing skin conditions and providing relief for various ailments
• Medicinal ash – the bark from ash, historically used in traditional medicine, possesses therapeutic potential. In traditional practices, ash bark was applied for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, providing relief to various ailments

FACT4 - Edible nuts - hidden treasures in the trees!

As you discover the best firewood logs, do not forget to cherish the hidden treasures of these edible nuts, offering both historical and culinary value, why not cook these in a wood stove?

• Beech nuts - though rarely consumed today, once served as a vital food source for Native American tribes. Their nutty flavour and nutritional value made them an essential part of their diet
• Hazelnuts - are one of the most popular edible tree nuts. They are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy snack
• Sweet chestnuts - are another UK-grown tree with edible nuts. They are roasted, boiled, or used in various dishes, providing a delightful taste and texture
• Nuts to avoid - however, not all tree nuts are suitable for consumption. Avoid eating the nuts of elder, holly, horse chestnut, laburnum, rhododendron, wisteria, and yew, as they are toxic and harmful to health

FACT 5 - Beech logs and Catherine Wheels - a fiery display

In the enchanting world of premium quality firewood, beech logs stand out for their remarkable versatility. Beyond their practical uses, beech wood holds a captivating historical significance. Throughout the UK's rich past, beech logs were cherished for crafting Catherine Wheels, wooden structures with spokes that produced a dazzling fiery display in fireworks shows as the firewood burns.

The intricate design of the Catherine Wheel allowed it to spin when set ablaze, the burning wood creating a mesmerising spectacle of light and motion. As it spun, sparks flew in all directions, captivating onlookers and illuminating the night sky with its enchanting glow. The beech wood's strength and resilience (unlike softwood which burns quickly) made it ideal for constructing these captivating wheels, ensuring their safe and spectacular performance.

Amidst the artistry of good firewood, the legacy of beech logs and Catherine Wheels stands as a testament to the imaginative creativity and brilliance of our ancestors, leaving us with a legacy of wonder and delight in the UK's history of fireworks displays.

FACT6 – Hornbeam logs powered gear cogs and mill wheels

Hornbeam is a wood of exceptional strength and durability. A good firewood, throughout history, its remarkable properties earned it a special place in the heart of industry and innovation.

Hornbeam's dense and hard nature made it an ideal choice for crafting gear cogs and mill wheels. In the UK's industrial past, watermills and windmills relied on these sturdy components to harness natural forces for grinding grains and powering machinery.

The precision and resilience of Hornbeam premium firewood logs ensured the smooth operation of these vital mechanisms, serving as the backbone of the UK's early milling and manufacturing industries.

As we explore the wonders of premium firewood, the legacy of Hornbeam wood stands tall, a testament to its contributions in shaping the technological advancements that drove the UK's economic growth. Its presence in gear cogs and mill wheels reminds us of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that have been woven into the fabric of the nation's history.

FACT7 - Fire-resistant barks - nature's protection against the flames

Amidst the realm of premium quality firewood, certain trees possess fire-resistant barks, a remarkable defence against the fury of wildfires. Even still, these trees often are excellent at making good firewood. These fire-resistant barks exemplify nature's ingenuity, showcasing how certain trees have evolved to protect themselves and their ecosystems against the destructive forces of fire hazard.

Examples include:

• Alder - boasts fire-resistant bark, offering some level of protection during forest fires
• Birch - is another example, with its unique bark structure providing fire resistance. The bark's papery peeling layers help insulate the tree, reducing the risk of ignition
• Fruit trees – often growing in warmer climates prone to fires, some fruit trees with relatively fire-resistant bark include avocado, fig, lemon, lime, olive, orange, and pomegranate
• Hazel - showcases fire-resistant bark, making it an asset in fire-prone areas. Its ability to withstand flames contributes to its ecological significance
• Scots pine - features a thick and resinous bark, imparting fire-resistant properties. This natural shield assists in shielding the tree during wildfires

FACT8 - Sacred qualities and myths - unravelling the mystical connection of trees

The final of our firewood facts focuses on the myths and sacred qualities of premium firewood logs. Below we showcase the profound connection between humans and trees, reflecting the deep-rooted reverence and fascination with these living symbols of strength, wisdom, and spirituality.

1)    Celtic folklore

Throughout history, various trees have been revered for their sacred and mythical qualities. Alder trees, considered sacred by the druids, held a special place in Celtic folklore. The druids associated alder trees with protection, healing, and divination, viewing them as a connection to the spirit realm.

2)    Christian and Jewish tradition

The olive tree, with its biblical significance, was associated with peace, prosperity, and the divine. It played a vital role in various religious texts, including the story of Noah's Ark.

3)    Hindu mythology

In Hindu mythology, the banyan tree was revered as the tree of life, believed to have roots in heaven and branches reaching down to the earth. It symbolised eternal life, knowledge, and wisdom.

4)    Norse mythology

In Norse mythology, the ash tree stood as the World Tree, Yggdrasil, symbolising the universe's interconnectedness. Its roots connected the realms of the living, the dead, and the gods, and its branches reached high into the heavens.

Firewood facts - the enchanting world of quality firewood

As we conclude our journey through the world of premium quality firewood, we are left in awe of the astonishing secrets and remarkable qualities hidden within these trees. As well as being ideal in a wood stove or fireplace, and other forms of wood burning appliance, there is more than meets the eye! From their surprising use in historical artillery to their mesmerising dance of flames, the best firewood delights us with its versatility and allure.

In the embrace of nature's offerings, we find healing and medicinal properties that have been cherished for generations. The exploration of edible nuts and the fiery Catherine Wheel shows the versatility of premium firewood logs.

Moreover, as we unravel the myths and sacred qualities, we glimpse the profound connections between humans and many types of woods.

As we gather around the crackling fire, let us cherish the premium quality logs that not only warm our hearths but also ignite our fascination with the mysteries of the natural world. In the depths of the UK’s forests, we discover the best wood, a timeless treasure that continues to surprise and delight us with its enchanting presence among many types of woods.

Discuss buying the best firewood with Cozilogs

Are you ready to explore the fascinating world of good kiln dried firewood and receive wood burning tips and more heat? Now you have explored the 8 surprising firewood facts above why not order some of our best kiln dried firewood from UK forests and woodlands at Cozilogs?

Kiln dried burning wood (rather than wet wood or burned green, which creates more smoke) is perfect for home heating and cooking in wood stoves with minimal smoke and good heat output. Choose certain firewood types like alder for its pleasant smell when burning, particularly when cooking.

Dial (01905) 954 736 to learn more and place your order for premium quality seasoned firewood logs. All logs we sell go through a kiln dried seasoning process, which ensures the wood is properly dried and burns at a high heat. Alternatively, email us via our contact form for an early reply.