When it comes to firewood, logs are categorised as either hardwood or softwood. Knowing the difference and what each type of wood is best used for can help you better utilise the logs you have access to.
Hardwood Logs
Wood from deciduous trees like oak, maple, ash and cherry are classified as hardwoods. Hardwood logs tend to be dense and slow-burning. This makes them an excellent choice when you need sustained heat output, such as in a wood stove or fireplace insert.
Hardwood also performs well when used in wood-fired ovens. The dense logs burn evenly while producing a bed of hot coals perfect for baking. Smoking and barbecuing are other great uses for seasoned hardwood firewood. The slow smoke permeates meats and vegetables providing rich flavor.
Using hardwood in a traditional open fireplace works fine, but keep in mind you’ll likely deal with more popping and sparking than when burning softwoods. However, the heat output and beautiful flames from hardwoods burning make this a tradeoff most are willing to accept.
Softwood Logs
Wood from conifer trees like pine, fir, spruce and cedar are considered softwoods. The wood has a lower density resulting in logs that ignite and burn faster. This makes softwood a good match for short-term heating needs, such as taking the chill off a room with a fire in the fireplace.
Campfires also benefit greatly from using softwood logs and kindling. The quick-catching, crackling fires generate bountiful flames perfect for lighting up a campsite and cooking over. Softwood also excels at producing tall flames that throw more heat, making it an excellent wood to use in fire pits.
Maximise Your Wood Resources with Our Help
Knowing when to use hardwood versus softwood logs allows you to get the most out of your firewood supply. Hardwood offers sustained heating power whilst softwood lights quickly and throws impressive flames. Using a mix provides the best of both.
Properly seasoned wood of either type will serve you well. We offer customised wood processing to meet your specific needs – get in touch today to have your logs cut, split and dried to perfection.
Get a quote or ring us now on 01444 811 446 to learn more about maximising the wood resources on your land. We offer free local delivery to Balcombe and Ardingly (only). If you have specific needs or quantities that you would like to collect, we are always happy to accommodate bespoke orders – all you have to do is let us know.
Our logs are supplied cut to approximately 10” as a standard size. To ensure the best performance, we recommend purchasing logs 12 months in advance or during spring/summer. Store them slightly off the ground and cover them to protect them from rain. A log store is ideal, and we can supply construction materials if interested.
Get the most out of your wood supply with proper planning and care. Contact us today to get expert advice tailored to your property and needs. We look forward to helping you utilise both hardwood and softwood logs to their full potential.
