The Basics

• Always burn well-seasoned, dry firewood with 15–25% moisture content.

• Freshly cut wood has 40–50% moisture, leading to poor fires, more smoke, and creosote buildup.

• Use a moisture meter for accuracy. Split a log and test—over 25% means it still needs seasoning.

Signs of seasoned wood

• Darkened, cracked ends

• Lighter weight

• Clear “clunk” sound when struck

Buying Firewood

• Cord: 128 cu. ft. (8′ x 4′ x 4′)

• Face cord: 8′ x 4′ stack, depth depends on cut length (e.g., 16” = ⅓ cord).

• Rick: just a pile.

• Truckload: varies by truck size.

Tip: Mark out 4′ x 8′ storage sections, pay for stacking, and only pay once the delivery measures up.

Heat tip: Hardwood cords weigh twice as much as softwood cords—nearly double the heat.

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods

• Softwoods (pine, cedar, fir): Light, ignite fast, less heat, burn quickly.

• Hardwoods (oak, maple, hickory): Dense, harder to start, hotter and longer burn.

Best practice:

• Use softwoods for kindling or mild weather.

• Save hardwoods for cold months.

Storage & Seasoning

• Cut and split wood 6–12 months ahead.

• Store off the ground, covered on top but open on sides for airflow.

• Woodshed is ideal; otherwise, sunny piles with tarps during rain/snow.

• Wood lasts 3–4 years if stored properly.

What NOT to Burn

• Green/wet wood

• Christmas trees

• Trash, wrapping paper, cardboard, or pizza boxes

• Treated, painted, or construction wood (toxic fumes)

• Plastics, Styrofoam, or accelerants (gas, kerosene)

• Driftwood (salt produces toxins)

Other Fuels

• Creosote logs: Won’t replace chimney sweeping.

• Artificial logs (Duraflame, etc.): Safe if used correctly. Burn one at a time, follow instructions, and never use in woodstoves.

Final Tip

With seasoned wood, smart storage, and safe practices, you’ll enjoy efficient, clean, and cozy fires all winter.

Months