How to Dry Your Own Logs for Burning
There’s nothing better than a real wood fire, but it’s really important that you use fully seasoned logs. Read on for more information as to why you need to dry your logs out and how to ensure you have done it properly.
Why Do I Need to Dry My Logs?
Logs that are wet will not burn effectively, whether it’s a wood stove or an open fire. A seasoned log (one which has been dried out) will, on average, provide double the heat compared to one which contains moisture. That’s because the fire needs to boil the water before it can burn the log. and it means more smoke and worse air quality. In fact, burning wet wood can be poisonous.
Can I Dry My Own Logs?
When it comes to getting the right logs, you have two options: you can either purchase seasoned logs for a local supplier or season your own logs, saving money in the process. The first thing you need is time. It will take around 12-18 months to properly dry out most logs. As well as time, you need space – somewhere to store the logs during the drying process. You can store logs outside, but don’t stack them right up against a wall and ensure they are fully covered. Next, you need to cut the wood correctly for storage. Ideally, logs should be split using a quality axe until they have a diameter of around 10cm.
How Will I Know When They Are Ready?
You are looking to have your logs at a moisture content of 20% or less, but of course the challenge is knowing when this will happen. You have two options: either purchase a moisture meter (a device with metal rods that you push into the wood) or simply look at the wood – if there is no green left on the log, it should be dry. You can also hit two together and listen out for a hollow sound. Once they are seasoned you can bring some indoors ready to put on the fire. Metal is a stylish option at the moment, so you should consider a metal log holder, such as one from https://www.themetaltree.co.uk/curved-log-storage.
So make sure you have plenty of time, space and a decent axe to get started with drying out your own logs.