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 or wet wood isn’t just smoky—it also creates excessive creosote buildup, leading to a higher risk of chimney fires. Well-seasoned or kiln-dried wood is the way to go. Aim for a moisture content under 20% for a cleaner, hotter burn.
Myth 3: Stacking Logs Against the House Is Safe
Storing wood too close to your home can invite pests like termites or carpenter ants. Plus, woodpiles against siding can trap moisture and lead to rot. Keep the pile off the ground, a few feet from your walls, and allow airflow around it.
Myth 4: Bigger Fires Are Always Better
Overloading your stove or fireplace can lead to an unsafe burn, risking overheating and excess smoke. A moderate, well-managed fire burns more efficiently and is much safer. Gradually add logs rather than piling them all in at once.
Myth 5: You Don’t Need a Chimney Sweep if You Burn Hot Fires
Even the hottest fires produce some creosote. An annual sweep is still crucial. Hotter fires reduce buildup, but they don’t eliminate it entirely. Regular cleaning ensures a safer, more efficient setup.
Myth 6: Softwoods Are Useless
Softwoods like pine aren’t worthless. They light easily and make great kindling. Just avoid them as your main fuel source in a fireplace or wood stove, especially if they’re not well-seasoned. The quick burn can be handy, but the extra creosote isn’t.
Myth 7: Storing Wood Indoors All Winter Is Totally Fine
Keeping a few logs by the fireplace is convenient, but you shouldn’t store large amounts of wood indoors for months. Pests and mold can sneak in with the logs. Keep only what you’ll burn in a day or two and restock as needed.
Myth 8: Only One Species of Wood Can Go in the Stove
Mixing different woods can be helpful. Softwoods get a fire going quickly, while hardwoods sustain it. Feel free to blend species for an ideal combo of easy ignition and long-lasting heat.
Myth 9: Seasoning Wood Takes a Couple of Weeks
Properly seasoning most hardwoods takes at least six months—often more. Shortcuts like stacking wood in direct sunlight can help, but patience remains key. If you’re in a hurry, consider kiln-dried logs.
Myth 10: Firewood Is Only for Heating
Don’t forget about cooking, smoking, or adding ambiance to your outdoor gatherings. Properly seasoned wood can be a fantastic fuel source for grills, pizza ovens, and backyard fire pits. Just make sure it’s pest-free and safe to burn near food.