As the weather starts to cool, it’s nice to put your feet next to a warm fireplace while listening to wood crackling as it burns. To achieve this, you need firewood. It might seem as easy as picking from a pile of chopped lumber, but there are several things you must consider when you’re looking for quality firewood, especially seasoned firewood. Let’s go over why you should stock up on firewood now and some tips on finding the best wood for your needs.
Consider How Much Firewood You Need
It’s best to base the quantity of your firewood on your storage capacity and how often you plan on making a fire. Remember not to over-order, as surplus wood stacked near or against your home for months can attract insects! A cord of wood measures 4 x 4 x 8 feet (128 cubic feet) and should be enough for the winter. If you’re using firewood as your primary means of heating, you may need 3-4 cords.
Ensure the Wood is Seasoned
Only seasoned firewood burns efficiently, so make sure you burn aged wood. Wood is seasoned when it has lost moisture and has a greyish, discolored hue. It’s not as heavy as green wood and feels hollow. When split open, seasoned wood is white and brittle with cracks, especially on the inside.
If your wood is green, it won’t burn because it contains up to 50% water. Instead, it will smolder and create more smoke instead of producing heat. Worse, the condensation from green wood creates creosote, which builds up in your chimney and causes a fire hazard. So, you should burn wood with a 20% moisture level or less.
Storing Your Firewood
After receiving your firewood, stack it on a metal rack to deter pests and keep it dry. Arrange the logs in alternate directions to promote airflow for quicker drying, and cover them with a tarp to protect them from the elements. Leave the sides open so the wood is adequately ventilated and can continue seasoning.
Why Buy Firewood Now?
There is nothing better than sitting in front of a nice, warm fireplace when the temperature plummets. To do this, however, you need a steady supply of firewood to last the winter. You might not be thinking about winter now, but it’s the perfect time to prepare for it. So, place an order for a delivery of firewood right away.
Lehnhoff’s Supply delivers materials to residential and commercial properties located in Baltimore & Harford County, Baltimore City, and select areas in Pennsylvania. Please visit our delivery page for an interactive map of our delivery areas.
Questions? Lehnhoff’s Supply is Here to Help
If you still have more questions about firewood, the trained professionals at Lehnhoff’s Supply are here to help you.
Find us at 2708 Belair Road, Fallston, MD 21047 and give us a call at 410-510-7646. For tips, tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Facebook, X – Twitter, and Pinterest!
We serve but aren’t limited to, the following parts of Maryland: Harford County – Fallston, Forest Hill, Joppa, Edgewood, Bel Air, Churchville, Havre de Grace, Jarrettsville, Street, Aberdeen, Abingdon, and Joppatowne. In Baltimore County: Kingsville, Perry Hall, Overlea, Fullerton, Nottingham, Parkville, Towson, Carney, Loch Raven, Lutherville, Timonium, Hunt Valley, Cockeysville, Sparks, Glyndon, Pikesville, Reisterstown, Ruxton, Parkton, Glen Arm, Baldwin, Monkton, Long Green, White Marsh, Rosedale, Phoenix, and Fork.