How Long To Store Firewood Logs Before Burning?

Properly storing firewood is key to ensuring it burns efficiently and provides maximum heat. If you’ve ever wondered how long you should store firewood logs before burning, the answer depends on the type of wood and how well it has been seasoned. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about firewood storage and preparation.

What Is Seasoned Firewood?

Seasoned firewood refers to logs that have been dried to reduce moisture content. Freshly cut wood, also known as "green wood," can have a moisture content of 50% or more, making it difficult to burn. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has a moisture content of 20% or less, making it easier to ignite and burn cleanly.

Key Benefits of Seasoned Firewood:

Produces more heat
Burns cleaner with less smoke
Reduces creosote buildup in your chimney
Easier to light and maintain

How Long to Store Firewood Before Burning?

1. Kiln-Dried Firewood

Kiln-dried logs are pre-dried in a controlled environment, meaning they’re ready to burn as soon as they’re delivered. At UK Firewood Logs, our kiln-dried firewood logs have a moisture content below 20%, ensuring high performance for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

Time to store before burning:

Kiln-dried firewood doesn’t require additional storage time. You can use it immediately!

2. Seasoned Firewood

Seasoned firewood is air-dried over time, which naturally reduces its moisture content. On average, it takes 6-12 months to properly season firewood, depending on the wood type and storage conditions.

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods:

Hardwoods (e.g., oak, ash): Require 12 months or more to season due to their dense structure.
Softwoods (e.g., pine, spruce): Dry faster, often within 6 months, but burn more quickly and produce less heat.

3. Green Firewood

Freshly cut green firewood should never be burned immediately. It requires at least 12-24 months of drying time to season properly.

Tips for Storing Firewood Logs

Choose the Right Storage Location
Store your logs in a dry, ventilated area such as a woodshed or covered outdoor storage rack. Keep firewood elevated off the ground to prevent moisture absorption and pest infestation.
Stack Logs Properly
Stack logs neatly, with enough space between pieces to allow air circulation. Use log storage solutions to keep your firewood organised and dry.
Protect from Weather
Cover your firewood pile with a waterproof tarp, leaving the sides open for airflow. Avoid completely enclosing the wood, as trapped moisture can hinder the seasoning process.

How to Tell If Firewood Is Ready to Burn

Moisture Content: Use a moisture meter to check that the wood’s moisture content is below 20%.
Appearance: Seasoned wood is darker in colour, has visible cracks on the ends, and feels lighter than green wood.
Sound Test: Tap two pieces together—seasoned wood will produce a hollow sound, while green wood will sound dull.

When to Use Firewood Logs

For the best results, always burn seasoned or kiln-dried firewood. Whether you're using your logs for a fire pit, BBQ, or a wood-burning stove, properly dried wood will ensure an efficient and enjoyable experience.

Where to Buy Ready-to-Burn Firewood

At UK Firewood Logs, we provide kiln-dried firewood that’s ready to use immediately. Our firewood is sourced sustainably and dried to perfection, making it ideal for your heating needs. With local delivery in Lincolnshire and nationwide shipping, we make it easy to get high-quality logs delivered straight to your door.