Last Updated on June 1, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
Do you have a fireplace? If so, you’ll need to get some firewood to burn. But what kind of firewood should you get? And how do you store it? In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of firewood and their burning qualities. We will also give tips on how to store your firewood for best results.
What is firewood?
Firewood is a type of fuel that is used for heating and cooking. It is made from wood that has been cut into logs or chunks. Firewood can be bought at many places, such as hardware stores, grocery stores, and online.
Types of firewood
There are many types of firewood available on the market, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here is a quick overview of some of the most popular types of firewood:
Hardwoods
Hardwoods are the most popular type of firewood, as they burn hot and slow, providing long-lasting heat. However, they can be difficult to find and are often more expensive than other types of wood.
Hardwoods such as oak, hickory, and maple are the best choices for firewood, as they have high densities that make them slow-burning and long-lasting.
1. Alder.
Alder is a type of hardwood that is typically used for smoking meats. It has a strong, distinct flavor that many people enjoy. Alder is also a good choice for firewood if you live in an area where it is abundant.
2. Apple.
Applewood is a hardwood, and as such, it burns hot and slow. It’s great for starting fires and maintaining them throughout the night.
Applewood has a high heat output and low smoke production. This makes it ideal for cooking, as the food won’t be infused with smoky flavors.
If you can find applewood that’s been harvested from old trees, it will be even more valuable as a firewood. The older the tree, the harder the wood, and the longer it will burn.
3. Ash.
Ash is a popular type of firewood because it burns hot and produces little smoke.
It’s also one of the easiest woods to split, which makes it a good choice for those who are just starting to gather their own firewood.
Be sure to stack ash wood in an open area so it can dry properly before burning.
4. Aspen.
Aspen is a hardwood that burns quickly and produces little heat. It is often used for kindling or in wood stoves where it is not the primary source of heat. Aspen is also popular for creating smoked foods because it imparts a light, delicate flavor.
5. Beech.
Beech is a hardwood that is very popular for use in firewood.
Beech is a deciduous tree, which means it sheds its leaves annually.
Beech is a very dense wood, and as such, it burns slowly and evenly.
Beech is also relatively easy to split, which makes it ideal for use in firewood.
6. Birch.
Birch is a relatively hardwood with a low density. It’s easy to cut and split, making it a good choice for those who are just starting out with firewood. Birch burns hot and fast, so it’s great for creating quick heat. However, because it burns quickly, it doesn’t last as long as some of the other options.
7. Blackthorn.
Blackthorn is a very dense and heavy wood, making it ideal for burning in a wood-burning stove. It has a high heat output and burns for a long time. Blackthorn is also very slow to rot, so it is perfect for using as firewood.
Blackthorn is a great choice of firewood if you want a long-lasting fire. It is also a good choice if you are looking for a wood that will produce a lot of heat.
8. Cherry.
Cherry is a popular type of firewood due to its high heat output and pleasant smell. It is also one of the densest woods, meaning it burns slowly and evenly. Cherry wood is often used in smoking meats and can add a delicious flavor to food.
9. Cottonwood.
Cottonwood is one of the most popular types of firewood. It is a hardwood and burns hot, making it ideal for fires in the winter. Cottonwood is also easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
10. Elder.
Elder is a deciduous tree that grows to around 20m in height. The wood is reddish-brown and has a fine grain. It is a hardwood, so it burns slowly and steadily with little sparks or smoke.
Elder is an excellent firewood for both indoor and outdoor fires. It can be used to make charcoal, which is excellent for barbecuing.
Elder wood is also good for smoking meats and fish. elder wood chips can be used to smoke cheese, nuts, and fruits.
Elder wood has a high heat value and a low ash content. This makes it an ideal firewood for wood-burning stoves and open fires.
11. Elm.
Elm wood is a hardwood that is denser than both pine and spruce. Elm trees are large, so elm firewood is typically cut into larger pieces than other types of wood. When burned, elm wood produces a high heat and burns for a long time.
12. Eucalyptus.
Eucalyptus wood is a good choice for those who want to use their fireplace or wood stove frequently, as it has a high heat output and burns quickly. If you have trouble finding eucalyptus wood, try searching online or at your local hardware store.
13. Hawthorn.
Hawthorn wood is very dense and is therefore excellent for burning. It takes a long time to light but once it is going, it burns slowly and evenly. Hawthorn wood is also good for making charcoal.
14. Hazel.
Hazel is a type of firewood that is perfect for those who want to enjoy a warm fireside experience without all of the hassle. This type of wood burns slowly and evenly, making it ideal for creating a long-lasting fire. Hazel also produces very little smoke, so you can rest assured that your home will stay clean and free from any unwanted smells.
15. Hickory.
Hickory is a very popular type of wood for use in smoking meats. It has a strong, distinct flavor that many people enjoy. Hickory is also a good choice for firewood if you want a long-lasting fire.
16. Holly.
Holly is a popular choice for firewood because it burns hot and slow, giving off a pleasant scent. It’s also easy to find and relatively inexpensive. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, holly is a good choice since it’s a renewable resource.
17. Hornbeam.
Hornbeam wood is a good choice for those who want to burn wood that is eco-friendly. This type of wood is a hardwood, and it is also a very dense type of wood.
This means that it will take longer to burn than some other types of wood. The upside to this is that it will produce more heat per hour than softer woods.
18. Horse Chestnut.
Horse Chestnut wood is a very popular type of wood to burn. It is a hardwood and therefore lasts longer than most other types of wood.
Horse Chestnut is also easy to split, making it ideal for kindling. Another advantage of Horse Chestnut is that it has a high heat output and burns hot, making it perfect for those cold winter nights.
19. Lime.
Lime wood is an excellent firewood. It is hard and dense with a low moisture content. This makes it ideal for slow-burning, hot fires.
Lime is also one of the few woods that produces very little smoke when burning. This makes it a good choice for indoor fires where smoke can be a problem.
20. Maple.
Maple wood is a hardwood that is heavy, strong, and dense. It burns hot and long, making it ideal for heating your home during the winter months.
21. Mesquite.
Mesquite is a type of firewood that is popular in Texas. It burns hot and produces a lot of smoke. Mesquite is also one of the most expensive types of firewood. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, try oak or hickory.
22. Oak.
Oak is a good type of firewood because it is dense. This means that it will burn for a long time. It also has a low moisture content, which makes it easier to light.
Oak is a good choice for those who want to have a long-lasting fire. It is also a good choice for those who want an easy-to-light fire.
23. Pear.
Pear is a good type of firewood because it burns hot and long. It is also easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
24. Rowan.
Rowan wood is a great choice for those who want a long-lasting and effective fire. This type of wood is known for its high density and slow burning qualities, making it perfect for winter fires.
25. Sweet Chestnut.
Sweet Chestnut wood is an excellent type of firewood as it has a high heat output. It also has a low smoke output and produces little ash. Sweet Chestnut is therefore ideal for use in wood burning stoves and open fires.
Sweet Chestnut wood is also very dense, meaning that it burns for a long time. This makes it perfect for use as a slow burning fuel.
26. Sycamore.
Sycamore is a good type of firewood because it is easy to find and burns quickly. It is not the best type of wood for fires, but it is a good choice if you need to get a fire going quickly.
27. Walnut.
Walnut wood is a type of hardwood. Hardwoods are denser than softwoods and have a higher heat value. They also take longer to ignite and produce more coals when burned. Walnut is a good choice for firewood if you’re looking for something that will burn hot and long.
28. Willow.
Willow wood burns hot and is good for getting a fire going quickly. It’s also a good choice if you need to add wood to an already established fire. However, willow doesn’t burn for very long, so it’s not the best option if you’re looking to keep a fire going all night.
29. Yew.
Yew is a coniferous tree that is most commonly found in Britain and Ireland. The wood is hard, heavy and red-brown in color. Yew is a very slow-growing tree, which makes it an ideal choice for firewood as it will burn for a long time.
Yew wood burns slowly and evenly, making it perfect for use in a wood-burning stove or fireplace. It is also an excellent choice for smoking food, as it imparts a delicate flavour to the meat.
Softwood.
The most popular type of firewood is softwood. Softwood burns quickly and produces a lot of heat. It is also the cheapest type of firewood. The downside to softwood is that it doesn’t last as long as hardwood. You will need to replenish your supply more often if you use softwood as your primary source of fuel.
1. Cedar.
Cedar is a softwood, but it’s one of the best options for firewood. It’s lightweight, burns hot and long, and produces very little smoke. Cedar is also easy to split and stack, making it a good choice for those who want to avoid back strain.
2. Douglas Fir.
Douglas Fir is a softwood that is light in color. It has a straight grain and is easy to work with. Douglas Fir is an excellent choice for firewood because it burns hot and produces little smoke.
3. Hemlock.
Hemlock is one of the most popular softwoods.
It is a beautiful, light-colored wood that is perfect for any home.
Hemlock is also a very strong wood, making it perfect for firewood.
4. Larch.
Larch is a coniferous tree, which means that it has needles instead of leaves. The needles are long and thin, and they grow in clusters. The bark is red-brown or orange-brown, and it is smooth.
The wood of the larch tree is strong and durable. It is used for construction, furniture, and flooring.
Larch is a type of softwood that is popular for firewood. It burns slowly and evenly, and produces a lot of heat.
5. Pine.
Pine is a softwood that is popular for use in construction, paneling, and furniture. It is easy to work with and takes paint and stain well. Pine is also one of the most affordable types of firewood.
Pine burns hot and produces a lot of sparks. It is not the best type of wood for using in a fireplace, but it can be used in a wood stove.
Pine is a good type of firewood for beginners to use because it is easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
6. Poplar.
Poplar is a type of softwood that is commonly used for firewood. Poplar is a fast-growing tree and is therefore a good source of wood for people who want to harvest their own firewood. Poplar is also a light wood, which makes it easy to transport.
Poplar burns well and produces a lot of heat, making it a good choice for firewood. However, poplar is not as long-lasting as some other types of wood, so it may need to be replaced more often.
7. Redwood.
Redwood is the best type of firewood.
It is a softwood, so it burns easily and quickly.
It also has a high heat output, so it will keep you warm for longer.
Redwood is also easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
8. Spruce.
Spruce is a softwood that is light in color. It has a straight grain and is easy to split. Spruce is an excellent firewood for starting fires and for kindling.
9. Tamarack.
Tamarack is one of the most popular types of firewood. It is a deciduous tree that grows in North America. Tamarack is known for its high heat output and low smoke production. It is also one of the most affordable types of firewood.
Pellets.
Pellets are made from wood shavings and sawdust that are compressed into small, cylindrical shapes. They’re a popular choice for home heating because they’re easy to store and transport. Pellets can be used in both pellet stoves and furnaces.
Pellets are relatively inexpensive, and they burn cleanly, producing little ash. They’re also a renewable resource, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
If you’re considering using pellets for home heating, it’s important to understand the different types of pellets that are available. Softwood pellets are made from softwoods like pine and spruce. Hardwood pellets are made from hardwoods like oak and maple. Pellet quality varies, so it’s important to choose a reputable brand.
Pellets are a convenient and efficient way to heat your home. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option, pellets may be the right choice for you.
Treated Wood.
Treated Wood is perfect for those who want the benefits of a fire without the hassle of having to constantly tend to it. This type of wood is treated with chemicals that make it resistant to rot and insect damage, as well as giving it a longer burning time.
As an added bonus, treated wood also produces less smoke and smells better when burned. If you’re looking for an easy to maintain fire, treated wood is the way to go.
Hardwood vs. Softwood.
The debate between hardwood and softwood is one that has been around for centuries. Each type of wood has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks, making it difficult to choose one over the other.
Hardwood is typically denser and more durable than softwood. This makes it ideal for furniture and other items that see a lot of use. Hardwood is also less likely to warp or dent over time, making it a good choice for flooring. However, hardwood can be more expensive than softwood, and it can be difficult to find furniture made from hardwood in some parts of the world.
Softwood, on the other hand, is typically lighter and more flexible than hardwood. This makes it a good choice for construction purposes, as it can be easily shaped into the desired form. Softwood is also usually more affordable than hardwood, making it a good option for those on a budget. However, softwood is not as durable as hardwood and is more likely to warp or dent over time.
Types Of Firewood to avoid.
There are many types of firewood that you should avoid using in your fireplace or wood stove. Some of these woods can release harmful chemicals into the air when burned, while others can cause creosote buildup and chimney fires. In order to keep your family safe and your home in good condition, avoid burning these types of firewood:
1. Non-local wood.
You may be tempted to save a few bucks and buy wood that is not from your local area. While this wood may be cheaper, it can actually end up costing you more in the long run.
Non-local wood is often of lower quality and may not burn as well. Additionally, non-local wood may not be properly seasoned and could contains pests that could infest your home.
2. Green wood.
You’ve probably heard of it, and you may have even used it before. But what is it exactly?
Green wood is simply wood that hasn’t had a chance to dry out yet. It still contains a lot of water, which means it’s not going to burn as well as dry wood. In fact, it can be downright dangerous to use green wood in your fireplace.
So, what are the risks of using green wood? For one thing, it produces a lot of smoke. The water in the wood will cause it to steam and smolder, rather than burn cleanly. This not only leads to an unpleasant smell in your home, but it can also be a health hazard.
The smoke from green wood can contain harmful chemicals, including carbon monoxide and other toxins. Inhaling this smoke can cause respiratory problems, and it’s especially dangerous for young children, the elderly, and people with asthma or other lung conditions.
Another risk of using green wood is that it can cause your chimney to catch fire. The creosote that builds up in your chimney is highly combustible, and the sparks from green wood can easily ignite it. This can be a serious safety hazard, so it’s important to be aware of the risks before you use green wood in your fireplace.
3. Painted wood.
Painted wood should not be used for firewood as the paint can release harmful chemicals into the air when burned. The wood will also burn less efficiently and produce more smoke.
4. Driftwood.
Driftwood can be found on any beach. It is wood that has been weathered by the sea and sun. While it may look nice, it is not the best type of firewood. Driftwood is full of salt which will make your fire smoke more.
5. Big wood.
Big wood is the type of firewood that is cut from the trunk of a tree. It is usually cut into pieces that are two feet long and one foot wide. Big wood is hard to split and burn, and it can create a lot of smoke when it burns.
6. Pressure-treated lumber.
Pressure-treated lumber is often used in construction because it is inexpensive and lasts a long time. However, pressure-treated lumber is treated with chemicals that can be harmful to your health. Burning pressure-treated lumber releases these chemicals into the air, which can be breathed in by you and your family.
7. Engineered sheet goods.
Wood composites, particle board and fiberboard are not good choices for firewood. They release toxic chemicals when burned and can cause serious health problems. If you must use them, make sure to properly ventilate the area to avoid inhaling the fumes.
8. Hardboard.
Hardboard is a type of firewood that is made from compressed wood fibers. It is often used as a fuel for burning in fireplaces and wood stoves. While hardboard may seem like a good choice for firewood, it actually burns very quickly and produces little heat.
In addition, hardboard produces a large amount of smoke when burned, which can be a nuisance for your neighbors. If you are looking for a good type of firewood to burn in your fireplace or wood stove, hardboard is not the best choice.
Best Firewoods by Heat Value.
The wood that you burn in your fireplace or wood stove can make a big difference in the amount of heat that you get from it. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best firewood for your needs, but one of the most important is the heat value.
There are a few ways to measure the heat value of firewood. The most common is the British Thermal Unit, or BTU. This unit measures the amount of heat that is required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Another way to measure the heat value is by the cord. A cord is a stack of wood that is four feet high, four feet wide, and eight feet long. The heat value of a cord can vary depending on the type of wood, but it is generally between 30 and 50 million BTUs.
The best firewood for your needs will depend on how you are going to use it. If you are looking for the most heat possible, then you should choose a wood with a high BTU value. If you are looking for a wood that will burn slowly and evenly, then you should choose a wood with a lower BTU value.
The most important thing to remember is that the best firewood is the one that works best for you. There is no single type of wood that is perfect for everyone.
High heat value.
1 cord = 200 to 250 gallons of fuel oil
The wood that is the most dense and compacted will have the highest heat value. This means it will burn hotter and longer than other types of wood. The best firewoods for this are oak, hickory, and sugar maple. Other good choices include beech, ironwood, and hornbeam.
Medium Heat Value.
1 cord = 150 to 200 gallons of fuel oil
Medium Heat Value is the average heat value for firewood. The wood from most trees falls into this category, such as:
-Oak
-Maple
-Birch
-Ash
-Beech
These woods are great for fires that need to last a long time, like in a fireplace or wood stove. They also provide a good bed of coals for cooking. If you want a fire that burns hot and fast, these are not the woods for you. But if you need a long-lasting, steady fire, then medium heat value woods are perfect.
Low Heat Value.
1 cord = 100 to 150 gallons of fuel oil
The lower the heat value, the more efficient the wood is at producing heat.
Some of the most popular firewoods with a low heat value include:
-Oak
-Birch
-Hickory
-Maple
These woods are perfect for those who want a long-lasting fire that burns slow and steady. If you’re looking for a wood that’s going to give you the most bang for your buck, these are the best options.
Factors to consider when buying firewood.
When purchasing firewood, there are a few key factors you should take into account in order to get the best bang for your buck – no pun intended.
The first factor is the type of wood. Hardwoods like oak and hickory burn longer and hotter than softwoods like pine, making them a better value for your money.
Another factor to consider is the moisture content of the wood. The drier the wood, the easier it will be to light and the longer it will burn.
A third factor is how the wood has been cut. Firewood should be cut into uniform pieces that are about 18 inches long. This will help ensure that your fire burns evenly.
Finally, you’ll want to take into account the price of the firewood. Be sure to shop around and compare prices before making your purchase.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure to find the best deal on firewood for your needs.
How to store firewood.
If you’re lucky enough to have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, you’ll want to make sure your firewood is properly stored. Here are some tips on how to store firewood:
– Choose a dry, covered area: Wet wood is not only difficult to light, it also produces less heat and can damage your stove or fireplace.
– Stack the wood loosely: This will allow air to circulate and prevent the wood from rotting.
– Keep the wood off the ground: This will help protect it from moisture and pests.
– Cover the woodpile: A tarp or other cover will keep the wood dry and make it easier to access.
Wood Burning Safety Tips.
Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your wood burning experience while staying safe:
-Use dry, seasoned wood. Green or damp wood can create more smoke and is more difficult to ignite.
-Build your fire in a suitable fireplace or fire pit. Make sure the area is clear of any flammable materials.
-Start with small flames and gradually add larger pieces of wood.
-Never leave your fire unattended. Make sure it is extinguished before you go to bed or leave the area.
FAQs
What is the hardest burning wood?
The hardest burning wood is typically going to be mesquite. Mesquite is a very hard and dense wood, which makes it great for burning. However, it can be difficult to find and may not be available in all areas.
Another hard-burning wood is oak. Oak is a very popular choice for firewood because it burns hot and long. It is also relatively easy to find.
If you are looking for a hard-burning wood that is easy to find, then hickory is a good choice. Hickory is a very common type of wood and burns hot and long.
What is the hottest burning firewood?
There are many factors that contribute to the heat output of firewood, including the type of wood, the moisture content, and how it is seasoned. In general, hardwoods like oak and maple will burn hotter than softwoods like pine. But even among hardwoods, there can be significant differences in heat output.
For example, well-seasoned beechwood can produce about 26 million British Thermal Units (BTUs) per cord, while green oak only produces about 20 million BTUs.
The moisture content of the wood is also a major factor in how hot it will burn. Wet or unseasoned wood can have a moisture content of up to 60%, which significantly reduces its heat output.
What is the slowest burning wood?
There are a few factors that contribute to how long it takes for wood to burn. The type of tree the wood comes from is one factor. Hardwoods, like oak and maple, tend to burn slower than softwoods, like pine.
The density of the wood also plays a role in burning time. Softer woods will usually burn faster than harder woods. The moisture content of the wood is also a factor. Dryer wood will burn faster than wetter wood.
Another thing to consider is how you’re burning the wood. If you’re using it in a fireplace, for example, it’s going to take longer to burn than if you were using it in a bonfire. The size of the wood also affects burning time. Larger pieces of wood will take longer to burn than smaller pieces.
What wood burns with least smoke?
There are many factors that affect how much smoke is produced when burning wood. The type of tree the wood comes from, how the wood is processed, and how it is burned all play a role in determining the amount of smoke produced.
Some woods produce more smoke than others. Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, tend to produce more smoke than hardwoods, such as oak and maple. Woods that have been treated with chemicals, such as pressure-treated lumber, can also produce more smoke than untreated woods.
To minimize the amount of smoke produced when burning wood, it is important to select the right type of wood and to burn it properly. Hardwoods are the best type of wood to burn if you are looking to minimize smoke production. Oak and maple are two of the best hardwoods for producing little smoke.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many types of firewood available to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a wood that burns hot and fast or one that smolders slowly, there’s definitely a type of firewood out there for you. Be sure to do your research before purchasing any firewood, as different woods have different purposes.