For fire lovers, wood aficionados, and those who simply enjoy the warmth and comfort of a fireplace, the question of what constitutes the best dried firewood is far from being a trivial pursuit. It's a question that goes to the heart of our quest for the perfect fire – one that burns long, burns bright, and offers the perfect balance of heat and ambience. That said, let's delve into the nitty-gritty of dried firewood.
The Importance of Dried Firewood
The idea of dried firewood might seem rather mundane, but in the world of fireplaces and log burners, it's akin to the Holy Grail. It is the difference between a crackling, lively fire that fills your living room with warmth and a dismal, smoke-filled room that leaves you yearning for central heating.
When it comes to firewood, the dryer, the better, and there are two main types of dried firewood to consider: air-dried and kiln-dried firewood.
Air-Dried Firewood
Air-dried firewood, as the name suggests, is wood that has been left to dry naturally over time. This method allows the moisture in the wood to evaporate, reducing the overall water content. However, the drying time can be rather lengthy, with some wood requiring up to two years to reach an optimal moisture level. Sure, patience is a virtue, but when you're yearning for a warm, cosy fire, two years can feel like an eternity.
Kiln-Dried Firewood
On the other hand, we have kiln-dried firewood. Kiln-drying involves placing the wood in a special type of oven where the temperature and humidity levels can be controlled. This method significantly reduces the drying time, with wood reaching optimal moisture levels in a matter of days rather than months or years. It's like the fast food of firewood, but without the guilt and cholesterol.
You might be wondering, is kiln-dried firewood better? The short answer is yes. Kiln-dried firewood burns cleaner, hotter, and longer than its air-dried counterpart. It also significantly reduces the chances of insect infestations and mould growth, making it a far healthier choice for your home.
But here's the kicker, it can be more pricey. So you might find yourself asking, why are kiln-dried logs expensive? Well, in this case, you're paying for the convenience and quality that kiln-drying offers.
Best Types of Wood for Burning
Now that we've established that kiln-dried firewood is the superior choice, let's talk about the best types of wood for burning.
First off, we have oak. As the saying goes, "from little acorns mighty oaks grow", and mighty they certainly are when it comes to burning. Oak is renowned for its long burn duration, with kiln-dried oak offering an impressive burn time that will keep your fire going for hours.
Ash is another top contender, known for its excellent heat output and long burn duration. Kiln-dried ash is a popular choice for those looking for a consistent, reliable burn.
Finally, alder is worth considering. While slightly less known than oak or ash, alder has a lot to offer. It has a fast burn rate and good heat output, making kiln-dried alder a great choice if you're looking for a quick, hot fire.
The Bottom Line
In the world of firewood, not all wood is created equal. The best dried firewood comes down to a combination of the drying process and type of wood. Kiln-dried firewood, particularly oak, ash, and alder, reigns supreme thanks to its quick drying time, long burn duration, and excellent heat output.
So next time you're preparing for a cosy night in or a big bonfire bash, remember to choose your firewood wisely. After all, nobody wants to be left out in the cold.
Explore our range of kiln-dried logs and find the perfect fuel for your fire.
