How to Choose and Store the Best Firewood

August 4, 2014

Ever wonder what kind of wood makes the best firewood? Here is a quick overview of which types of wood make the best firewood, and some tips on how to store and season firewood:

Choosing the best type of wood

In general, with a couple of exceptions, hardwoods make better burning wood than softwoods. Hardwoods also tend to emit less smoke and throw off fewer sparks. That said, this list includes some softwoods that are good for burning, if softwood is what you have readily available to you. Also, since different types of wood are more widely available in different regions, your choice may be partly determined by what is readily available where you live.

Good Hardwood Firewood Types: Ash, Aspen, Beech, Birch, Cherry, Dogwood, Pecan, Maple & Walnut all make good firewood. Less great choices of hardwood for firewood include Aspen, Chestnut, Cottonwood, Elm, and Sycamore.

A Few Good Softwoods for Firewood: Cedar, Douglas Fir, and Yellow Pine.

Storing and Seasoning

Firewood needs to be seasoned, which basically just means that it needs to be dried out. Wood naturally contains some water when it is first cut, and some types contain more than others. If you were to burn firewood while it is still wet (a.k.a. “green”), the fire would be slow, smoky and short-lived. So, it needs to be stored for about 6 months or more to season it. If you split your wood or purchase wood that is already split from a supplier, that will help the seasoning process along. You will know it is ready when it has some cracks in it and the ends have some darkening.. Also, if you knock two pieces of the wood together, it will should a somewhat hollow sound. “Green” wood will be heavier and look fresher.

Wood should be stored stacked in rows, in a place where wind and sun can help the seasoning process along. Crisscrossing the rows allows better air flow and quicker drying. There is some debate over whether the stack should be protected from the rain. Some folks say that it should be located in a covered area, while others don’t think that a little rain will slow down the seasoning process. Use your own judgment, but if you choose to store the wood covered, don’t use a tarp or plastic, which can trap the moisture and cause rot. Storing the wood in a lean-to or wood shed is a great option, if you have one. It is also a good idea to store the wood raised off the ground on a pallet or bricks.

Once the wood is split and seasoned, you will be ready to go! Having a ready supply of firewood will ensure you have many great winter nights in front of a roaring fire!