When it comes to keeping our homes cosy and warm during the colder months, nothing quite beats the comforting crackle of a wood-burning fireplace or a wood-burning stove in your kitchen or living room. With just a little thought and preparation in advance, you can make those moments even more special.
Not all firewood is the same. In fact, different types of wood have different burning characteristics, heat output, and even aroma. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the most common types of firewood used for domestic purposes and what to look out for when choosing a firewood supplier.
The most common types of firewood for domestic use
Oak is widely regarded as one of the best firewood options available. It burns slowly and releases a steady, long-lasting heat perfect for most indoor heating needs. Oak is also known for producing a pleasant aroma when burned.
Birch is known for its bright flames and high heat output. Birch ignites easily and burns quickly, making it a popular choice for starting initial fires or creating a warm ambiance. Its fast-burning characteristics mean it may not be the best option for extended heating.
Maple is another excellent choice for firewood. It burns cleanly with bright flames and produces a steady, moderate heat. It is easily accessible and provides a satisfying warmth without excessive smoke or sparking.
Ash is highly regarded for its versatility and efficiency as firewood. It burns easily, producing substantial heat output and little smoke. Ash tends to have a low moisture content, making it an excellent choice for efficient and clean-burning fires.
Pine is one of the most commonly available types of firewood. It is highly resinous which causes it to burn quickly and with a pleasing crackling sound. While it can be a suitable choice for kindling or outdoor fires, it is not recommended for long-term indoor use due to its tendency to produce excess smoke and spark.
So, as you can see, there is a lot more to creating the prefect wood burning experience that you might first assume. Now that we have covered some of the most common types of firewood used for domestic purposes, it’s also worth looking at what factors to consider when choosing a firewood supplier.
Things to consider when choosing a firewood supplier
Ensure that your firewood supplier provides high-quality wood that is properly seasoned. Well-seasoned firewood has a moisture content of around 20% or less, which allows for more efficient and cleaner burning.
Choose a supplier who practices responsible forestry methods or sources their wood from sustainable forests. This helps to preserve our natural resources and ensures that future generations can enjoy the benefits of wood-burning.
Consider the supplier’s delivery options and packaging. Make sure their delivery service is prompt and reliable, it arrives neatly stacked and well-protected from moisture, and does not have excessive or environmentally unfriendly packaging.
Read previous customer reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the supplier’s reliability, quality of wood, and customer service. This will help you make an informed decision before purchasing.
While price is a factor to consider, it’s important to balance it with the quality and reliability of the supplier. Choose a supplier who offers competitive pricing without compromising on the quality of the firewood.
Summary
Choosing the right type of firewood and a reputable supplier go hand in hand when it comes to enjoying the warmth and beauty of a wood-burning fireplace or stove.
By factoring in the characteristics of different firewood types and evaluating suppliers based on quality, sustainability, delivery, and customer reviews, you can ensure a cosy and enjoyable wood-burning experience in your home. Our expert team here at Easypave can help you stay warm in ways that are friendly to the environment and your pocket!
Photo by Hayden Scott on Unsplash
