How Wood Burns In the Fireplace

The fire is one of the most important sites of a home during the winter months. Many homeowners are realizing the benefits of utilizing a fire and some are even using their fireplace instead of their heating unit to heat the home during the colder winter months. But those with a fireplace aren’t always aware of what kind of wood they are burning. Sure, some use a gas fireplace, and the conveniences of those are obvious. Some who are living in more rural areas are even able to cut their own firewood, and they may be wondering what kind of wood is best for burning.

The wood of different trees has a different moisture content, and the moisture content of the wood determines how the wood will burn. One thing that is very important for those with a fireplace to know is, “what kind of wood is best to burn.” When the proper wood is used, it allows the other accessories used for the fireplace like the chimney liner to be the most effective possible.

5 Different Kinds of Wood

Cedar

Cedar splits easily, which means it is a great starter wood for making the fire and makes great kindling. While cedar does burn at a good temperature, it is known to spit and crackle, meaning that it may not be the best choice for an open fireplace. The greatest benefit of cedar, according to many fire lovers, is the unique aroma that can improve the fragrance of any home.

Oak

Oak is a favorite for firewood, and is abundant in North America making it easy to find and also one of the most affordable choices. Oak can be difficult to ignite and get started like most hardwoods, but once it gets started it burns long and at a good temperature.

Birch

Birch is a softwood so it is going to burn faster than hardwoods like the oak. It also has a slight sweet when burnt and that makes it a favorite among many homeowners with a fireplace. There are several species of birch, including yellow, black, and white birch. Black is the most desirable for firewood, because of its denseness which allows it to burn long and hot and also has a great smell. White birch has waterproof bark, and is used in making canoes and other things but does not have as dense of wood as yellow or black birch.

Poplar

Also known as the cottonwood or aspen, the poplar is easily identified because of its long, thin appearance. It is a very soft wood, and is going to burn hot and fast because it is not very dense. Because it doesn’t burn very hot and burns very quickly, poplar isn’t going to be the best choice for heating a home during the winter months.

Pine

Pine is very plentiful in certain parts of North America. One thing to keep in mind is that it is not a hardwood. The resin content in pine is very high, which in layman’s terms just means it is very sappy. The amount of resin in the wood of the pine is going to make it burn very hot, is going to make it burn hot. Anyone that’s been camping knows that pine burns faster than hardwoods like oak, and this is why. Keep in mind that it is best to use properly aged wood rather than green wood in the fireplace.

When using a fireplace, it is important to have it inspected and equally as important to have a chimney liner that protects the chimney and insulates heat from escaping that could remain in the home. For chimney liner stainless steel system and a wide range of hearth projects, contact Chimney Supply Services at 1-877-486-1119!