A log burner is a great way to heat your home while enjoying the rustic ambiance of a wood fire. However, not all types of wood are created equal when it comes to burning in a log burner. Some woods burn more efficiently and produce less smoke, while others are more prone to sparking or create excessive creosote buildup in your chimney.
"Hardwoods are denser, resulting in longer burn times and higher energy output per log, but softwoods are great for kindling".
In this buying guide, we explore the different types of wood that are ideal for burning in a log burner.
What's better for log burners, Hardwoods or Softwoods?
Hardwoods such as oak, maple, ash, and beech are ideal for burning in a log burner. They burn longer and hotter than softwoods, producing more heat with less smoke and less creosote buildup in your chimney. Hardwoods are also less likely to spark, making them safer to use.
Softwoods such as pine, cedar, and spruce are less dense than hardwoods, which means they burn faster and hotter. However, they also produce more smoke and creosote buildup in your chimney, which can be dangerous if not properly cleaned. Softwoods are best used as kindling to start a fire, or mixed with hardwoods for a more efficient burn.
What is the burn time & heat output of softwoods vs hardwoods?
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Hardwoods (oak, maple, ash, beech) are denser, which means they burn longer and release more energy per log.
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Softwoods (pine, cedar, spruce) are less dense, so they ignite faster and burn quickly, often producing higher flame intensity but for a shorter duration.
Are Fruitwoods good for log burners?
Fruitwoods such as apple, cherry, and pear are a popular choice for log burners because they burn slowly and produce a sweet-smelling aroma. They also produce less smoke and creosote buildup than softwoods, making them a safer choice for your chimney.
Is Ash good for log burners?
Ash is a hardwood that is known for its low moisture content, making it an ideal choice for burning in a log burner. It burns hot and produces very little smoke, making it a clean and efficient choice for heating your home.
Is Birch good for log burners?
Birch is a hardwood that burns hot and produces a bright flame. It is a popular choice for log burners because it is easy to split and has a low moisture content, which makes it an efficient choice for burning.
In conclusion, use dry, seasoned wood for best results. Hardwoods like oak, maple, ash, and beech for efficient burning. Softwoods like pine, cedar, and spruce are good for kindling. Fruitwoods like apple, cherry, and pear offer a sweet aroma and low smoke.
