What Wood is Best for a Woodburner?

Published on 22 June 2022

The first debate is softwood vs hardwood? Hardwood is best for burning due to its higher density and higher calorific value a consequence of a longer, slower-growing time. Whilst it may be more expensive than softwood it will pay for itself with a slower and hotter burn, pine for example will light easily but burn through much quicker than hardwood whilst producing relatively less heat.

The best woods for burning are as follows;

Ash

Ash is generally considered one of the best woods to burn, it lights easily, has a steady flame and produces a good amount of heat. Ash takes around 18 months to fully season, it can still be burnt green but with less satisfactory results. It is a great wood for either an open fire or a stove.

Oak

Oak is an even slower burner than Ash because of its high density, as a result, it seasons slowly, ideally over 2 full years. When burnt it’s good to be used mixed with other woods which are faster burners. Oak, as a slow burner, is perfect for keeping fires burning overnight.

Birch

Birch makes great firewood for either a stove or open fire. It is quite a quick burner so is fantastic when paired with slower burning oak. Whilst it will burn unseasoned the sap released can deposit in the chimney. The bark is extremely flammable and can be peeled off and used as a firelighter.

The key is to always burn properly seasoned hardwood, ordering your wood early in the spring-summer means it will only improve with time and makes sure you are ready to come autumn when the temperatures fall. Order now from The Log Dog.

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