To ensure long-lasting and efficient fires, here are the five best types of wood for firewood: Oak, which is dense and burns hot and slow, producing a steady flame and heat output; Hickory, a dense hardwood that produces a long-lasting burn; Maple, a versatile hardwood that’s known for its sweet aroma and low smoke output; Birch, which is popular because of its easy accessibility and bright flames; and Ash, which is known for burning hot and producing a steady flame. Softwoods such as pine or cedar should be avoided for firewood. Firewood should be stored in a dry and ventilated area, stacked off the ground with a cover to protect it from moisture. Generally, it can take six months to a year for firewood to fully dry and be ready to burn efficiently.

5 Best Types of Wood for Long-Lasting Firewood

Firewood is a staple for any household with a fireplace or wood stove. However, not all types of wood are created equal when it comes to burning efficiently and lasting a long time. Some woods may produce more smoke or burn quickly, leading to frequent refueling. To ensure long-lasting and efficient fires, here are the five best types of wood for firewood:

Oak

Oak is considered the gold standard for firewood. It’s dense and burns hot and slow, producing a steady flame and heat output. Oak firewood is perfect for outdoor fire pits or indoor fireplaces and wood stoves. While oak takes longer to dry and can be a more expensive option, it’s worth the investment for a long-lasting fire.

Hickory

Hickory is another dense and hardwood that produces a long-lasting burn. It’s commonly used for smoking meat for its sweet and smoky flavor. However, hickory can be difficult to split and may require more effort than other types of wood. Still, the effort is worth it for a steady and efficient fire.

Maple

Maple is a versatile hardwood that’s known for its sweet aroma and low smoke output. It’s a great option for indoor fireplaces and has a relatively short drying period compared to other types of wood. Maple is also easy to split, making it a convenient option for those who want a low-maintenance firewood.

Birch

Birch is a popular choice for firewood because of its easy accessibility and bright flames. It burns hot and bright and produces little smoke. Birch firewood also has a short drying period and is easy to split. While it’s not as long-lasting as other hardwoods, it’s a great option for a quick and efficient fire.

Ash

Ash is a hardwood that’s known for burning hot and producing a steady flame. It’s also fairly easy to split, making it an accessible option for those who want a low-maintenance firewood. Ash firewood has a relatively short drying period and is a popular choice for indoor fireplaces and wood stoves.

FAQs

What are the best types of wood to avoid for firewood?

Softwoods such as pine or cedar should be avoided for firewood as they produce more smoke and burn quickly, leading to more frequent refueling.

What’s the best way to store firewood?

Firewood should be stored in a dry and ventilated area, stacked off the ground with a cover to protect it from moisture.

How long does it take for firewood to dry?

The drying period for firewood can depend on the type of wood and the climate. Generally, it can take six months to a year for firewood to fully dry and be ready to burn efficiently.