A Guide to Firewood and Log Stores

There’s no better antidote to those cold winter evenings than a crackling wood fire – and, for those with log-burning stoves or open fireplaces, quality firewood offers a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly heating solution that creates an inviting atmosphere when the temperatures start to drop. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right firewood to proper storage techniques and essential log store options to help you make the most of your natural heat source this winter.

Choosing the right firewood

The differences between hardwood and softwood

When it comes to firewood, one of the most common questions is whether to use hardwood or softwood. Both options have unique benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on your heating needs and how frequently you plan to use your fireplace. 

Hardwoods, such as oak, ash, and beech, are traditional choices for wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. These dense woods burn slower with a high heat output which produces long-lasting warmth. Although hardwood logs are often more expensive than softwood, its efficiency and heat retention make it a worthwhile choice for primary or frequent home heating.

Softwood, as you’d expect, is a lighter natural material which typically ignites more easily, producing a bright flame and moderate heat output. Though softwood logs burns faster than hardwood, it still offers excellent energy potential and is perfect when you’re looking for a quick fire to heat up a room. 

Many modern wood-burning stoves are designed to burn both hardwood and softwood efficiently, so a mix of the two can be a sensible option. This allows for easier kindling with softwood and extended heat with hardwood, giving you control over the fire's intensity and burn time.

The importance of dry firewood

Why moisture content matters

The key to a successful, clean burn is ensuring your firewood is properly dried. Firewood with a moisture content of less than 20% lights more easily, produces less smoke, and burns more efficiently than damp wood. 

Excess moisture in logs not only results in a less enjoyable fire but can also be harmful to the environment. Wet logs produce more smoke, ash, and pollutants, and can lead to tar build-up in your chimney or wood burner, potentially causing damage and increasing the risk of chimney fires. Fountain Timber’s firewood is fully dried, pre-cut, and ready to use, saving you time and ensuring you have high-quality, safe-to-burn logs.

Storing firewood for optimal use

Ensuring firewood stays dry and ready

Proper firewood storage is crucial to maintain the quality and safety of your logs. While it may be tempting to store firewood next to your stove for convenience and aesthetics, it can be hazardous. Stacking firewood close to your heat source poses a fire risk and may also reintroduce moisture into the wood if exposed to indoor humidity. Instead, it’s best to keep your firewood in a dedicated outdoor log store where it can remain dry and well-ventilated.

Fountain Timber’s range of enclosed log stores are designed to protect your firewood from the elements, while still allowing adequate airflow for drying. During the winter months, an enclosed log store provides shelter from rain and snow while keeping the logs elevated and off the ground, reducing the risk of moisture absorption. This ensures your firewood remains in excellent condition, ready for use whenever you need it.

Log storage options

Comparing enclosed and triangular log stores

For those looking to store firewood effectively, selecting the right log store is essential. Fountain Timber’s enclosed log store is a popular choice for outdoor storage, providing plenty of space for logs and protecting them from the elements. Made from durable, pressure-treated timber, the enclosed log store allows you to stack logs securely while allowing airflow to keep the wood dry.

Alternatively, the triangular log store offers a compact and stylish option for smaller spaces. This design keeps logs elevated, prevents moisture build-up, and offers easy access, making it a practical option for households with limited outdoor space. Both options allow your firewood to dry naturally, preserving it for clean, efficient burning throughout the season.

Tips for stacking firewood safely

Best practices for stacking and drying

The first job is to ensure that your firewood is elevated entirely off the ground. This reduces moisture absorption and prevents logs from rotting. Next, arrange your wood in a single layer with open sides to facilitate airflow, which aids in drying and reduces the risk of mould. 

Positioning your log store with its open side facing away from prevailing winds and rain will further protect your wood. When stacking, build sturdy corners to prevent the pile from toppling, and consider splitting logs into various sizes for easier use.

Tips for stacking firewood safely

Best practices for stacking and drying

To get your fire going quickly, it’s worth investing in quality kindling and firelighters. Kindling, such as small sticks of softwood, ignites easily and helps larger logs catch fire. Fountain Timber offers an excellent selection of kindling and natural firelighters that make starting your fire simpler and more efficient. 

Unlike newspaper, which can produce smoke and ash, firelighters are clean-burning and safe to use indoors. Paired with softwood kindling, they’re an ideal way to establish a strong, lasting flame before adding larger hardwood logs.

How can we help?

Choosing quality firewood and storing it properly are essential steps for an efficient, reliable, and enjoyable fire. Fountain Timber is committed to providing sustainably sourced, high-quality firewood, log stores, kindling, and firelighting accessories, ensuring you have everything you need for a warm and welcoming winter.

If you have questions or need guidance on selecting the right firewood products, the team at Fountain Timber is always ready to help.

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