Not all wood is the same. It’s tempting to think every piece of wood lying around can fuel your fireplace or stove, but that’s not quite true. Different species and conditions can affect how well it burns—or if it’s even safe to burn at all. Before you toss random logs on the fire, let’s break down what’s safe and what’s not.
Hardwoods vs. Softwoods
Hardwoods (like oak, hickory, and maple) are often your best bet. They burn hotter and produce steady heat for longer. Softwoods (like pine or spruce) ignite quickly, making good kindling, but they can create more creosote buildup. Mixing the two is okay—just be aware that softwoods alone aren’t ideal as your main fuel source for a long, cozy fire.
Seasoned vs. Green Wood
Burning green or wet wood leads to smokier fires and more creosote. It’s harder to light and gives off less heat because so much energy goes into boiling off water. Seasoned wood has been dried for at least six months, often more. Aim for logs with 20% or less moisture content—your fire will burn cleaner and hotter.
Watch Out for Treated or Painted Wood
Scrap lumber, pallets, or painted boards shouldn’t be burned. Chemicals, paint, and preservatives release toxic fumes and can damage your stove or chimney. The same goes for plywood and MDF—they’re bound with adhesives that aren’t meant to be released into your home’s air.
Driftwood and Salt-Soaked Logs
Driftwood might look like free fuel, but the salt content can corrode metal components in your chimney or stove. Burning salt-laden wood also risks releasing harmful chemicals. If you live near the coast, it’s better to steer clear of salt-soaked logs, no matter how abundant they are.
Unusual or Exotic Woods
If you happen to have access to exotic species or knotty, resinous logs, do your homework. Some types of wood burn with a strong odor or release too much sap. For safety and performance, stick to well-known, proven firewood species, especially if you’re burning indoors.
Final Thoughts
You can’t just burn any old wood you find. Hardwoods and well-seasoned logs are your best bet for safe, efficient fires. Avoid treated, painted, or saltwater-soaked wood, and steer clear of anything rotting or moldy. A little caution goes a long way toward keeping your fires hot, clean, and safe for everyone to enjoy.