Firewoood F.A.Q’s This Summer

As the colder months approach, many homeowners in Cardiff the Vale and the South West turn to kiln-dried firewood to keep their homes warm and inviting. Whether you’re new to using kiln-dried firewood or an experienced user looking to optimise your heating, this comprehensive FAQ guide will answer all your burning questions about firewood.

What Types of kiln dried Firewood Are Available?

1. Hardwood vs. Softwood
   • Hardwood: Dense and burns longer, providing more heat. Examples include oak, ash, and beech.
   • Softwood: Less dense, burns faster, and is easier to light. Examples include pine, spruce, and fir.
     • Kiln Dried: Dried in a kiln to reduce the moisture content to below 20%, making it ready to burn immediately. It burns hotter and cleaner.
     • Seasoned: Naturally air-dried over 6-18 months. Moisture content is around 20-30%, requiring more storage time and space.

Why Choose Kiln Dried Firewood?

Kiln dried firewood is the best choice for several reasons:

• Low Moisture Content: Burns efficiently and produces more heat.
• Less Smoke and Creosote: Reduces chimney build-up and maintenance.
• Ready to Use: No need for additional drying time.

How Much Firewood Do I Need?

The amount of firewood you need depends on several factors:

• Frequency of Use: Occasional vs. regular burning.
• Size of Your Fireplace or Stove: Larger units require more wood.
• Insulation of Your Home: Well-insulated homes retain heat better, reducing wood consumption.

A general guideline for an average Cardiff and Vale household is:

• Occasional Use: 1-2 cubic meters per winter.
• Regular Use: 3-4 cubic meters per winter.

How Should I Store Firewood?

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality of your firewood:

• Keep it Dry: Store firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area. Use a cover to protect it from rain, but leave the sides open for airflow.
• Off the Ground: Stack firewood on pallets or a raised platform to prevent moisture absorption from the ground.
• Away from Buildings: Store firewood a few feet away from your home to prevent pests and for safety reasons.

How Do I Light a Fire with Firewood?

1. Prepare the Fireplace or Stove: Clean out old ash and ensure proper ventilation.
2. Kindling and Firestarters: Use dry kindling and natural firestarters like wax-coated wood shavings or small sticks.
3. Build the Fire: Place the kindling and firestarters in a crisscross pattern. Add a few small logs on top.
4. Light the Fire: Light the firestarters and allow the kindling to catch fire. Gradually add larger logs as the fire builds.

What Are the Best Types of Firewood for Different Uses?

• For Long Burns: Hardwood like oak and ash, which burns slowly and produces steady heat.
• For Quick Heat: Softwood like pine, which ignites quickly and provides immediate warmth.
• For Aroma: Fruitwoods like apple and cherry add a pleasant scent to your home.

Is Kiln Dried Firewood Environmentally Friendly?

When sourced and used correctly, firewood can be an environmentally friendly heating option:

• Sustainable Sourcing: Choose firewood from suppliers who source wood responsibly from well-managed forests.
• Carbon Neutral: Burning firewood releases carbon dioxide absorbed by trees during their growth, making it a carbon-neutral fuel.
• Efficient Burning: Use seasoned or kiln-dried firewood for efficient burning and reduced emissions.