Let's face it, there's nothing quite like the warmth, light, and crackling sound of a fire to evoke a sense of comfort or to set the stage for a cosy evening in. However, to ensure an enduring burn on those long winter nights, you need the right type of firewood. Enter kiln dried firewood. Kiln dried firewood is the VIP guest at any fireplace party, but hosting it does require some added considerations. One of the most common concerns is whether kiln dried firewood can get wet and, if so, what the implications might be.
So, can kiln dried firewood get wet? The short answer is yes, but... Well, let's delve into the 'but' part.
The Science Behind Kiln Dried Firewood
Kiln dried firewood is the product of a process known as kiln drying, where firewood is placed in a kiln and subjected to high temperatures to drive out moisture. The result is incredibly dry wood with a moisture content of less than 20%, making it ideal for burning due to its high energy efficiency. It burns cleaner, hotter, and longer than untreated wood, making it the Rolls Royce of firewood.
But the question still remains, what happens if this meticulously dried firewood gets wet? As discussed in our article is kiln dried firewood better, the main benefit of kiln dried firewood is its low moisture content. If exposed to moisture, the wood will absorb it, negating many of the benefits of kiln drying.
The Perils of Damp Kiln Dried Firewood
If your kiln dried firewood gets wet, it will absorb the moisture, and its moisture content will rise. This can lead to a number of issues, such as increased smoke production when burning, as outlined in does kiln dried wood burn with less smoke. Increased moisture content can also lead to a decrease in the heat output and burn duration of the firewood, as detailed in our kiln-dried wood burn duration article.
Moreover, wet kiln dried firewood can become a breeding ground for mould and fungi, which not only ruins the firewood but can also pose health risks when burnt, as mentioned in our previous post is kiln dried wood healthier.
Keeping Kiln Dried Firewood Dry
To maintain the optimum performance of your kiln dried firewood, it is crucial to keep it dry. This means storing it under cover, ideally in a wood store or shed, and on a raised platform to prevent ground moisture seeping up. It is also advisable to keep it in a well-ventilated area to prevent any condensation build-up. The kiln-dried wood outdoor lifespan article provides excellent tips on how to store kiln dried firewood properly.
In Summary
To conclude, whilst kiln dried firewood can get wet, it's certainly not advisable to let it do so. The moisture absorption will undo the benefits of the kiln drying process, leading to less efficient burning, potential health hazards, and ultimately a less satisfying fire. To prevent this, proper storage is essential.
Remember, kiln dried firewood is like that VIP guest at your fireplace party. It deserves special treatment. If cared for correctly, it will reward you with a cleaner, hotter, and longer burn, making those cosy nights by the fire even more memorable.
So, next time the heavens open and rain threatens to dampen your firewood, remember this article and do what's needed to keep your kiln dried firewood dry. After all, as the old adage goes, "Keep your friends close, your enemies closer, and your firewood bone dry!" Now, that's a saying we can all warm up to, isn't it?
