There is a lot more to creating a roaring fire than many might realise. This is all down to the wood you use and how it is seasoned. Firewood seasoning is an integral part of making a fire as wood that is seasoned correctly will burn cleanly and efficiently, giving you the perfect fire. So, how do you make a clean and efficient fire? Read on and find out more.
Why should you consider firewood seasoning?
Firewood seasoning when done correctly is important because it allows the wood to dry out, which reduces the amount of smoke produced when it is burned and increases the amount of heat produced. When wood is freshly cut, it contains a lot of water, which needs to evaporate before the wood is ready to burn.
The process of firewood seasoning process can take can range from six months up to three years, depending on the type of wood and the conditions under which it is stored. If wood is burned before it has been properly seasoned, it will create a lot of smoke, which can be both wasteful and polluting, and it will not burn as hot or as efficiently as dry wood.
What happens if you don’t season firewood?
When firewood is not seasoned correctly, it can lead to a number of problems. One of the most significant issues is that the wood will not burn as efficiently as it should. Freshly cut wood contains a surprising amount of water, and before you begin burning this wood, it needs the water needs to be removed. This process requires a lot of energy, and it means that the fire will not be as hot or as efficient as it could be. Additionally, unseasoned wood can result in vast amounts of smoke, which is not good for your home or your health and it can also pollute while wasting your firewood.
A roaring fire needs the right firewood to allow it to generate heat and burn for some time
It makes it difficult to start a fire
Another problem with unseasoned wood is that it can be difficult to start a fire with. When wood is wet, it will not ignite as easily as dry wood will, and it will also generate a lot of smoke, which can make it difficult to see the flame. In addition to this, it will also reduce the heat and will make your experience less enjoyable. Additionally, unseasoned wood will not burn as long as dry wood will, which means that you will need to add more wood to the fire more frequently. This can be both inconvenient and wasteful.
You will experience problems with your chimney
Another problem with unseasoned wood that has not been through the firewood seasoning process is that it can cause damage to your chimney or wood-burning stove. When wood is wet, it can lead to the deposit of creosote, which is a tar-like substance that can build up inside your chimney or stove. This build-up can be a fire hazard and it can also make it difficult for smoke and other pollutants to escape, which can lead to health problems making it vital to carry out firewood seasoning the right way.
Using the wrong firewood will only create a wealth of problems
What type of wood can be seasoned?
There are many different types of wood that can be seasoned, and some are better than others. The type of wood you need will depend on how you plan to use it. Softwoods are not the best option when making a fire. This is because they don’t burn as efficiently, and they do not give off enough heat. In contrast, hardwoods are a great option, and when they are seasoned, they will burn for long periods and deliver a more efficient heat.
Some of the most common types of firewood that can be seasoned include:
Oak: Oak is a hardwood that burns hot and burns for a long time. It is a good choice for firewood because it produces little smoke and is less likely to spark than some other types of wood.
Maple: Maple is another hardwood that is a good choice for firewood. It burns hot and burns for a long time, and it produces little smoke.
Birch: Birch is a hardwood that burns hot and burns for a moderate amount of time. It results in a lot of sparks, so it's not the best choice for fireplaces, but it is a good choice for outdoor fires.
Ash: Ash is a hardwood that burns hot and burns for a moderate amount of time. It produces little smoke and is less likely to spark than some other types of wood.
Pine: Pine is a softwood that burns hot and burns for a moderate amount of time. This releases a lot of resin and can create a lot of creosote in the chimney, so it's not the best choice for fireplaces, but it is a good choice for outdoor fires.
Cherry: Cherry is a hardwood that burns hot and burns for a moderate amount of time. It produces a pleasant aroma and it's good for wood-burning stoves or fireplaces.
Apple: Apple is a hardwood that burns hot and burns for a moderate amount of time. It produces a pleasant aroma and it's good for wood-burning stoves or fireplaces.
It's important to note that some types of wood can be invasive or endangered species, so it's important to check the local regulations and availability before cutting or buying firewood. Additionally, not all types of wood should be used for indoor burning as they can produce creosote and other pollutants that can affect your health and damage your chimney.
Importance of Clean Burning
Firewood seasoning – how do you do it?
There is a process involved in firewood seasoning. If you want the perfect firewood, then it makes sense to carry out the process correctly. It takes time but once you understand the main factors, you’ll get it right every time. There are things to consider such as the weather, how you stack it, where you stack it and ventilation, so let’s take a look.
Cut it to the right length
For successful firewood seasoning, the wood has to fit your fireplace, therefore, it makes sense to cut it to the correct length. The length should no wider than your fireplace, so it should be around 3 inches less. However, this does depend on the way in which you put the wood in your fireplace although shorter pieces are preferred over longer pieces.
Split to the correct size
To ensure optimal performance of your wood-burning appliance, it is crucial to split the wood to the appropriate size. For instance, for efficient woodstoves, the recommended size is not in excess of 6 inches (or 15 cm) in diameter, while a range of 3 to 6 inches (7.5-15 cm) is best for woodstoves and slightly larger for furnaces.
Stack and expose
Proper seasoning of firewood involves stacking it in an area where the sun can warm it and the wind can pass through it. A single row of firewood, which is sun-exposed and prevailing winds is ideal since the sun helps to evaporate the water content from the wood, while the wind removes it.
Understanding how to season wood will make a difference to your fires
It takes time to season wood
The successful seasoning of firewood is a process that requires time and patience. What is vital to seasoning is allowing the wood to dry for a sufficient amount of time. Typically, it takes at least six months for firewood that is properly split and correctly stacked to reach an ideal moisture level.
The length of time it takes to dry hardwood varies depending on factors such as the species, local climate, and firewood moisture content at the time of purchase. It's important to keep in mind that the seasoning process can vary and may take longer than expected. If you want to have a roaring fire as soon as possible then you might be better off purchasing wood that has been seasoned for you. This can be used while your own wood is seasoning.
Store it right and in the correct location
Your drying wood should be covered as this will help to prevent your firewood from becoming too wet. This is particularly true if you live in an area that receives a lot of rain. Using a cover can cause problems as it can stop the sun from drying out the wood, so you should attempt to use a clear sheet so some sunlight can pass through it.
While covering a drying woodpile may be tempting, especially in rainy climates, it can impede the drying process. Furthermore, it can lead to problems such as any sheeting being carried away by the strong winds.
So, find a sheltered place that is exposed to the wind but also helps to stop the wood from getting wet. If you feel as though you have to cover it, then a clear polythene sheet will do the job while you should make sure to secure it in place. This will allow the rays of the sun to penetrate through and will help to dry out the wood while protecting it from the rain.
Season Wood Right and Reap the Benefits
There is something extremely rewarding about taking care of firewood seasoning yourself. If you follow the advice in our guide and use the right wood, then there is no doubt that you will have yourself a beautiful fire that burns cleanly and efficiently.
Clarify any of your questions with Cozilogs
If you would like to find out more about the advantages of using seasoned firewood, Cozilogs is here to help. Get in touch with us to learn about the secret to a clean and efficient fire with firewood seasoning! We are happy to answer any questions you may have when you call (01905) 954 736, email sales@cozilogs.co.uk or complete our contact form.
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