Cedar firewood is known for its pleasant aroma, ease of ignition, and unique properties that make it stand out among other firewood types. While it may not be the top choice for long-term heating due to its lower heat output, cedar is an excellent option for kindling, campfires, and aesthetic fires. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cedar firewood, including its advantages, limitations, and best uses.
Why Cedar Firewood is Unique
Cedar is a softwood, which means it’s lighter and less dense than hardwoods like oak or hickory. This lower density makes it burn faster, but it also makes cedar incredibly easy to ignite. Its natural oils give off a distinct, sweet aroma, making it a favorite for recreational fires and special occasions.
Key Characteristics:
- Easy Ignition: Lights quickly, even when slightly damp.
- Aromatic Smoke: Produces a pleasant, woodsy fragrance.
- Bright Flame: Burns with a lively, crackling fire.
- Moderate Heat Output: Suitable for short-term fires but not ideal for heating.
Heat Output and BTU Rating
Cedar firewood has a BTU rating of approximately 12–15 million BTUs per cord, which is lower than most hardwoods. While it doesn’t provide as much heat or burn as long, its quick ignition and pleasant aroma make it a valuable addition to your firewood stack.
For comparison:
- Oak: ~24–29 million BTUs per cord
- Ash: ~24 million BTUs per cord
- Birch: ~20 million BTUs per cord
Pros and Cons of Cedar Firewood
Pros
- Easy to Light: Ideal for starting fires or as kindling for larger logs.
- Pleasant Aroma: The wood’s natural oils release a sweet, soothing fragrance when burned.
- Bright, Crackling Flame: Adds ambiance to indoor or outdoor fires.
- Repels Insects: Cedar’s natural oils can help deter pests, making it great for outdoor use.
Cons
- Low Heat Output: Not suitable as a primary heating source for homes.
- Fast Burn Rate: Cedar burns quickly, requiring frequent replenishment.
- Creosote Buildup: Its high resin content can lead to creosote accumulation in chimneys if burned excessively.
Best Uses for Cedar Firewood
- Kindling: Cedar’s easy ignition makes it perfect for starting fires in wood stoves, fireplaces, or outdoor pits.
- Recreational Fires: Ideal for campfires, fire pits, and decorative fires due to its aroma and crackling flame.
- Cooking: While not commonly used for grilling or smoking, cedar can be used to add a mild flavor to certain dishes, especially fish like salmon.
- Aesthetic Fires: Its bright flame and aromatic smoke make it a great choice for ambiance.
How to Season Cedar Firewood
Cedar firewood has a lower moisture content than many other woods, which allows it to season relatively quickly.
- Split Early: Split cedar logs immediately after cutting to speed up drying.
- Stack with Airflow: Arrange logs in a single row, off the ground, with space between pieces for ventilation.
- Cover Properly: Protect the stack from rain and snow by covering the top while leaving the sides open for airflow.
- Drying Time: Cedar typically seasons in 6–9 months, making it one of the faster woods to prepare.
Cedar Firewood vs. Other Firewoods
Cedar vs. Oak
- Heat Output: Oak firewood burns hotter and longer, while cedar ignites faster and is better for short-term fires.
- Ease of Use: Cedar is easier to handle and split due to its lower density.
Cedar vs. Pine
- Smoke and Aroma: Cedar produces a sweeter, more pleasant aroma, while pine can smell resinous or sharp.
- Creosote Risk: Both have higher resin content, but cedar is less likely to spark excessively.
Cedar vs. Birch
- Burn Rate: Birch firewood burns slower and hotter, while cedar provides a quick, bright fire.
- Best Use: Birch is better for heating, while cedar excels as kindling or for ambiance.
Sustainability and Availability
Cedar trees are commonly found across North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and parts of the southern United States. The wood is often harvested sustainably, especially when sourced as a byproduct of construction or furniture making. Cedar’s widespread availability makes it an accessible option for firewood in many regions.
360 Key Takeaways
- Cedar firewood is easy to light, produces a bright flame, and fills the air with a pleasant aroma.
- With a BTU rating of 12–15 million, it’s not ideal for heating but excels as kindling or for ambiance.
- Proper seasoning (6–9 months) ensures efficient burning and reduces creosote buildup.
- Cedar is best used for kindling, recreational fires, and aesthetic purposes rather than long-term heating.
Check our latest Firewood Statistics and Facts.
Final Thoughts
Cedar firewood may not be the best for heating your home, but it’s hard to beat for creating a cozy, aromatic fire. Its quick ignition, sweet fragrance, and bright flame make it a versatile choice for kindling, outdoor gatherings, or decorative fires. Add cedar to your firewood collection for those times when you want a fire that’s as enjoyable to smell as it is to watch.