Why Log Choice Matters
Not all logs are created equal. The type of timber, moisture content, and how it has been treated can dramatically affect how your fire performs. Poor-quality or wet logs produce more smoke, burn inefficiently, and may even damage your stove or chimney. Conversely, well-chosen logs can give a cleaner burn, longer-lasting heat, and a more enjoyable fire experience.
Key benefits of picking the right logs:
- Efficient burn – get more heat from less fuel.
- Clean fire – less smoke and soot means less cleaning.
- Safety – dry, seasoned, or kiln-dried logs reduce chimney fire risk.
Understanding Timber Types
Different types of timber burn differently:
- Hardwoods (e.g., oak, ash, beech) – dense and slow-burning, hardwoods give longer-lasting heat, ideal for overnight fires. They produce steady embers and less smoke once seasoned.
- Softwoods (e.g., pine, spruce) – ignite quickly and burn fast, giving a bright flame. Great for kindling or a quick heat boost, but not ideal as the main fuel for long burns.
Tip: Many wood burner enthusiasts use a mix – softwood to get the fire going, then add hardwood for sustained warmth.
Seasoned vs Kiln-Dried Logs
- Seasoned logs – air-dried for 12–24 months. Low moisture content (usually 20% or less), good for regular burning.
- Kiln-dried logs – dried in a controlled oven. Extremely low moisture content, easy to light, and minimal smoke.
Choosing between them depends on convenience and budget. Kiln-dried logs are perfect for quick, hassle-free fires, while seasoned logs are more traditional and cost-effective if you have time to prepare them properly.
What to Look For When Buying Logs
When selecting logs for your fireplace or wood burner, consider the following:
- Moisture content – aim for 20% or lower. Logs that are too wet create smoke, soot, and inefficient burns.
- Size and shape – logs should fit comfortably in your stove or grate. Splitting logs into manageable sizes ensures better airflow and easier ignition.
- Source and quality – check that logs are sustainably sourced and untreated. Avoid painted, treated, or construction wood, which can release harmful chemicals.
- Smell and appearance – properly dried logs often have a pleasant wood aroma and may show cracks at the ends.
Storing Logs Before Use
Even the best logs need proper storage before burning. Moisture absorbed during storage can reduce efficiency.
- Keep logs in a dry, ventilated area.
- Stack off the ground to prevent damp.
- Cover the top, but leave sides open for airflow.
Properly stored logs maintain low moisture content, making your fire easier to start and longer-lasting.
Using Logs Effectively in Your Fire
- Start small – use smaller logs or kindling first to get the fire going.
- Add larger logs gradually – this maintains airflow and prevents smoke.
- Rotate logs – use older logs first to avoid waste.
Common mistake: Throwing large logs onto a weak flame. This smothers the fire and makes ignition harder.
Choosing Logs for Different Needs
- For a cosy evening fire – use softwood or smaller kiln-dried logs for a bright flame and quick heat.
- For overnight heating – choose dense hardwoods that burn slowly and produce lasting embers.
- For minimal smoke – always pick kiln-dried or well-seasoned hardwood.
Safety Considerations
Selecting the right logs also impacts safety. Wet or resinous logs can cause creosote build-up in your chimney, increasing the risk of chimney fires. Always:
- Avoid treated timber, painted wood, or construction offcuts.
- Check logs for insects or mould.
- Ensure logs fit comfortably in your stove or fireplace to prevent sparks escaping.
Extra Tips for a Better Fire
- Mix logs of different sizes for better airflow and gradual heat.
- Keep a small basket of ready-to-burn logs near your stove for convenience.
- Rotate stock regularly to ensure older logs are used first.
- If using softwoods for quick ignition, follow up with hardwoods for sustained heat.