Firewood Myths and FAQs

Burning wood for heat is a time-honored tradition, but not all wood is equal. Painted wood might seem like an easy way to dispose of scrap lumber, but tossing it into your fireplace or wood stove can lead to more harm than good. The Dangers of Burning Painted Wood Paint often contains chemicals that aren’t […]

Most people worry about wood that’s too wet, not too dry. Wood with a moisture content below 20% is generally considered ideal for burning. It lights easily, burns hotter, and produces less creosote. But can it actually be too dry? It’s rare, but there are a few scenarios where wood can get so dry that

On average, firewood takes about six months to a year to season properly. That’s assuming you stack it correctly, leave it in a sunny and breezy spot, and the weather cooperates. With the right conditions, the moisture content drops below 20%, which is ideal for efficient, clean burning. Some denser hardwoods, like oak, may need

Termites love wood, and a neatly stacked firewood pile can look like a buffet. When you stack logs right against your home’s wall, you might be making it easier for these pests to find their way inside. But is it guaranteed? Not necessarily. It’s all about reducing the chances of moisture and direct contact. Why

Softwoods like pine, spruce, or fir often get a bad rap for firewood. People claim they burn too quickly, produce too much creosote, and don’t put out enough heat. But is it fair to say softwood is always a poor choice? Not exactly. While hardwoods generally offer higher heat output, softwoods still have a place

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

What Sets Kiln-Dried Wood Apart? Kiln-dried firewood doesn’t rely on Mother Nature to remove moisture. Instead, it goes through a controlled drying process in a heated chamber. While regular air-drying can take six months or more, a kiln can get the wood down to a low moisture content in just days or weeks. The result

Green firewood is freshly cut and loaded with moisture. Because it’s not properly dried, it releases a lot of steam and smoke when burned. That’s a problem for your stove. The excess smoke and moisture can leave residues inside the stove and chimney, leading to more frequent cleanings and even damage over time. The Creosote

Myth 1: Any Wood Burns the Same Not all wood is created equal. Hardwoods like oak and hickory burn hotter and longer, while softwoods like pine burn quickly and can produce more creosote. If you want a long, steady fire, choose well-seasoned hardwood over random logs. Myth 2: Green Wood Is Fine to Burn Green