It may not seem significant at first, but it’s important to choose the right type of wood for your fireplace. After all, not all types of wood give the same effect. For instance, some woods can be bad for your liner and brickwork, or they may result in smokier fires. The ideal type of wood, on the other hand, provides warmth and burns effectively as well as slows down creosote buildup in your chimney.
What Is Properly Seasoned Firewood?
Freshly cut firewood has a high moisture content, usually around 45%. Not only is this type of firewood more difficult to ignite, but it also pops and cracks more since the water is forced to evaporate before the wood can burn. As such, the perfect water content of your firewood should be between 20% to 25%. To achieve this, firewood is efficiently seasoned and stored for 6 to 12 months. With less water in the wood, seasoned firewood gives off more warmth and lasts longer.
Why Is Seasoned Firewood Important?
To put it simply, seasoned firewood is important because it burns better and more efficiently. Since seasoned firewood burns longer than regular ones, it also guarantees that you can save time and effort. Additionally, expect a stress-free chimney sweep because seasoned firewood reduces the buildup of flammable creosote in your chimney.
What Are the Benefits of Seasoned Firewood?
Smoke can be a health issue as it might trigger some serious illnesses. The toxins and fumes from your fireplace should never be inhaled as well. Not to mention, smoke can stink up your home, and it will be difficult to remove that irritating smell from your clothes, furniture or curtains. With seasoned firewood, you can avoid excess smoke. Thanks to its lower water content, seasoned firewood does not use up a lot of energy to burn through extra water.
You can save money on your monthly utility bills, too. Investing in a fireplace can help save energy from your heating system, but regular firewood may burn too quickly and may not provide the expected heat. By comparison, seasoned firewood burns longer, promising you a more cost-effective way to heat your home.
If you have any inquiries about your chimney needs, turn to Chimney Doctors for chimney masonry repair services and many more. Call us at (518) 882-5009, or fill out our contact form to set an appointment. We offer services in Clifton Park, NY.
