The Ultimate Guide to Firewood Care: Storing, Moisture Content, and Seasoning Tips

28 Sep The Ultimate Guide to Firewood Care: Storing, Moisture Content, and Seasoning Tips

Perth, Scotland – where the winds can be as chilly, but the warmth of a crackling fire makes everything right in the world. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, wood-burning stove, or even an outdoor fire pit, you’re probably familiar with the joys of cosying up to a roaring fire. 

But here’s the thing – the quality of your firewood matters more than you might think. How? That’s what we’re guiding you within this article about firewood care. We’ll be diving into the basics and essentials of keeping your wood stash in perfect condition if you live in Perth, Scotland.

Storing Firewood

Properly storing firewood is the first step in ensuring you have a ready supply of fuel for those chilly Scottish nights. Here are some key tips to consider:

Elevate and Cover

To prevent moisture from seeping into your firewood, store it off the ground on pallets or racks. Cover the top of the woodpile with a waterproof tarp or firewood cover to shield it from rain and snow.

Ventilation

Allow for proper airflow around the woodpile to aid in drying. Avoid tightly stacking firewood, as this can hinder air circulation and lead to moisture buildup.

Location Matters

Choose a spot for your firewood that receives sunlight and has good wind exposure. This helps in naturally drying out the firewood.

First In, First Out

Practice the ‘first in, first out’ method. Use older, seasoned wood before newer additions to your stockpile. This ensures you’re always working with well-seasoned firewood.

Understanding Firewood Moisture Content

Moisture content is a critical factor in firewood care. The moisture content of your firewood directly impacts its burn efficiency and heat output. In Perth, Scotland’s damp climate, keeping moisture levels in check is particularly important. Here’s why:

High moisture content:

• Results in reduced heat output, as energy is used to evaporate the water in the wood.
• Causes increased creosote buildup in chiminea, leading to potential fire hazards.
• Generates more smoke and contributes to air pollution.

Low moisture content:

• Provides a higher heat output and more efficient burning.
• Reduces creosote buildup and chiminea maintenance.
• Produces less smoke and is environmentally friendly.

Enhancing Garden Beauty

Firewood storage isn’t just about functionality; it can also enhance the looks of your garden. Let’s explore how:

1. Organised Woodpiles: Neatly stacked firewood can add a rustic charm to your outdoor space. Consider creating designated storage areas that blend seamlessly with your garden’s design–while keeping in mind our storing tips!
2. Natural Borders: Use rows of firewood to create natural borders or dividers within your garden. This not only looks visually appealing but can also serves a practical purpose.
3. Garden Furniture: Get creative by repurposing old firewood into garden furniture or decorative pieces. Benches, tables, and even sculptures can be crafted from seasoned wood, adding some pizzazz to your garden.
4. Properly Seasoning Firewood

Seasoning firewood is like ageing a fine wine – it gets better with time. Now, let’s talk seasoning – this is not the salt and pepper kind. Proper seasoning is all about drying out your firewood, and it’s essential for a top-notch burn. Here are the things to keep in mind when seasoning firewood:

1. Be Patient: Firewood usually needs a good six months to a year to season properly. So, start your seasoning journey ahead of time to make sure you’re all set when the cold creeps in.
2. Split ‘Em Up: Give your logs a little split splash. Smaller pieces dry out faster, thanks to more surface area being exposed to air and sunlight.
3. Stack Right: Stack your split firewood in a single row with gaps for airflow. Cover the top to protect it from rain, but leave the sides open so that sweet Perth breeze can work its magic.
4. Moisture Check: Grab a moisture meter and occasionally check your firewood’s moisture content. You’re aiming for a nice, low 20% or less. That’s the sweet spot for well-seasoned wood.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – the ultimate guide to firewood care if you live in Perth, Scotland. Remember, it’s not just about keeping warm; it’s about keeping warm the right way. By storing your firewood like a pro, understanding the moisture content, and adding a dash of garden aesthetics, you’re all set for a winter full of cosy fires and a garden that will attract passersby.

As a leading tree surgery business, TTS Tree Surgery take pride in offering ethically sourced, locally harvested firewood, perfect for keeping you warm during the colder months and suitable for various applications like wood burners, log burners, fire pits, chimineas, and pizza ovens. 

TTS Tree Surgery is committed to providing you with the finest firewood, delivered promptly to ensure a seamless experience. Get in touch today at 01738 505700 to secure your supply of quality, locally sourced firewood in Perth, Scotland and keep those fires burning brightly!