A Beginners Guide to Buying Firewood

There’s something truly special about a crackling fire. The warm glow, the inviting scent, the gentle crackle – it instantly creates a sense of comfort and togetherness that’s unmatched.

For those new to the world of firewood, however, the process of buying it can seem a bit daunting. What kind of wood is best? How much do you need? How do you know if it’s good quality?

As a leading supplier of premium firewood across Sydney, Big Chief’s Firewood understands these concerns, and we’re here to help you navigate the world of firewood with confidence!

This beginner’s guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to purchase the perfect firewood for your Sydney home. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right wood type to understanding measurement and storage.

ey Considerations When Buying Firewood

Choosing the right firewood isn’t just about aesthetics (though a neatly stacked log pile certainly adds charm!). There are a few key factors that impact your fire’s efficiency, safety, and overall enjoyment. We’ll delve into the world of wood types, moisture content, and measurement units, so you can confidently select the perfect firewood for your Sydney hearth.

Types of Firewood: Hardwoods vs Softwoods

Not all firewood is created equal! Understanding the different types available will help you choose the best option for your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the two main firewood categories:

Hardwoods

• The King of Fireplaces: Hardwoods are widely considered the superior firewood choice.
• Heat Champions: Due to their denser structure, hardwoods burn hotter and longer, providing more consistent warmth for your home.
• Smoke Signals: Seasoned hardwoods produce minimal smoke, ensuring a cleaner and more pleasant burning experience.
• Popular Picks in Sydney: Some popular hardwood options in our region include Ironbark, Redgum, and Spotted Gum. These varieties offer excellent heat output and a pleasant aroma.

Softwoods

• Quick and Easy Starters: Softwoods tend to ignite more easily than hardwoods, making them a convenient choice for starting fires.
• The Burn Downside: However, softwoods burn quicker and with less heat output compared to hardwoods. They also tend to produce more smoke, which can be a nuisance.
• Fireplace or Fire Pit?: Softwoods might be a suitable option for occasional use in fireplaces, but they are a better choice for fire pits where a quick, bright flame is desired.

Moisture Content is Key

Don’t underestimate the power of dry firewood! The moisture content of your firewood significantly impacts how well it burns. Here’s why seasoned firewood with low moisture is essential:

• Burning Bright: Seasoned firewood burns hotter and cleaner than wet wood. Less moisture means more energy is released as heat, keeping your Sydney home cozy and comfortable.
• Smoke Signals Reduced: Wet firewood produces excessive smoke, which can be unpleasant and even create a health hazard. Dry firewood burns with minimal smoke, creating a more enjoyable fireside experience.

How Does Firewood Get Seasoned?

Firewood goes through a seasoning process to remove excess moisture. This can be done naturally by stacking split wood outdoors for several months, allowing air circulation and drying. Alternatively, kiln-dried firewood undergoes a controlled drying process using specialised chambers, which significantly reduces seasoning time.

Testing for Seasoned Firewood:

Not sure if the firewood you’re considering is dry enough? Here are a couple of simple methods to check:

• The Weight Test: Seasoned firewood feels lighter than its unseasoned counterpart. Pick up a piece – if it feels surprisingly heavy, it might still contain too much moisture.
• The Sound Test: Knock two pieces of firewood together. Seasoned firewood produces a hollow, ringing sound, while wet wood produces a dull thud.

By prioritising seasoned firewood, you ensure a more efficient, cleaner, and enjoyable fire experience in your Sydney home. Big Chief’s Firewood offers only premium, well-seasoned firewood, so you can be confident you’re getting the best quality for your cosy nights in.

Buying Firewood by Unit

Navigating the world of firewood measurements can feel confusing at first. Don’t worry, Big Chief’s Firewood is here to demystify the process! Here’s a breakdown of common firewood measurement units:

• Cord (full cord):The largest unit, typically a stacked pile of firewood 4 feet wide, 8 feet long, and 4 feet high (including air spaces).
• Face cord:Similar to a cord, but only 16 inches deep (excluding air spaces). Essentially a stacked face of a full cord.
• Bundle:A smaller, pre-cut and wrapped unit of firewood. Sizes can vary depending on the supplier, but common options range from 1/4 face cord to 1/2 face cord bundles.
• Cube: A “cube of firewood” is a standard unit used in the firewood industry. Firewood is typically measured in cords, face cords, or bundles.

Understanding these units with the help of visuals like images or diagrams will help you choose the right amount for your needs.

Estimating Your Firewood Needs:

The amount of firewood you need depends on several factors, including the size of your fireplace, how often you plan to use it, and the climate in Sydney. As a general guideline:

• Occasional fireplace users: A half face cord or a few bundles might suffice.
• Frequent fireplace users: One to two face cords could be a good starting point.
• Homes with fireplaces as the primary heat source: Consider multiple cords depending on the fireplace size and expected usage.

Safe Storage Tips

Firewood is an investment, and proper storage ensures it stays dry, usable, and ready to create cosy fires throughout the season. Here’s how to keep your firewood in top condition:

Why Storage Matters:

Storing your firewood correctly protects it from moisture, pests, and decay. Moist firewood burns poorly and produces smoke, while damp conditions can attract unwanted insects.

• Moisture Matters Again: Exposure to rain, snow, or ground moisture can re-dampen your seasoned firewood, leading to inefficient burning and potential safety hazards.
• Keeping Critters at Bay: Damp firewood can attract unwanted pests like insects or even rodents. Proper storage discourages these unwelcome guests.
• Preventing Decay: Moist firewood is susceptible to rot and decay. Good storage practices extend the lifespan of your valuable firewood.

Here are some simple tips for safe and effective firewood storage:

• Location, Location, Location: Choose a well-ventilated, dry, and preferably covered area for your firewood storage. Garages, sheds, or covered porches are ideal options. Avoid storing firewood directly on the ground. Elevate it using pallets, bricks, or even concrete blocks to promote air circulation and prevent moisture build-up.
• Stack it Smart: Stack your firewood neatly in a crisscross pattern, allowing air to flow freely between the logs. This promotes drying and prevents rot. Leave some space between the stack and any walls or structures for better air circulation.

By following these simple storage tips, you’ll ensure your firewood stays dry, burns efficiently, and lasts longer throughout the Sydney winter. 

Burning Efficiency and Safety Tips

Burning Efficiency

Remember how we talked about the importance of dry, seasoned firewood? Here’s why it plays a crucial role in burning efficiency:

• Hotter and Cleaner: Dry firewood burns hotter and cleaner than wet wood. This translates to more heat output from your fire, keeping you warm and cozy for longer. Less moisture means less smoke production, resulting in a more enjoyable fire experience for you and your family.
• Less Waste, More Warmth: Wet firewood burns inefficiently, releasing less heat and producing more smoke and ash. This means you’ll end up using more wood to achieve the same level of warmth, leading to wasted resources.

Fire Starting Techniques

Using proper fire-starting techniques goes hand-in-hand with efficient burning. Here’s a quick tip: opt for a natural fire starter like kindling or tinder instead of lighter fluid. Lighter fluid can leave an unpleasant odour and may not be suitable for all fireplaces.

Conclusion

Remember, buying firewood as a beginner doesn’t have to be complicated. By keeping these key points in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crackling fireside bliss:

• Choose the right wood type: Opt for seasoned hardwoods for your Sydney fireplace to ensure long-lasting heat and minimal smoke.
• Prioritise dry firewood: Low moisture content is essential for efficient and clean burning.
• Understand firewood measurements: Familiarise yourself with cords, face cords, and bundles to choose the right amount for your needs.
• Store your firewood properly: Keep it dry, well-ventilated, and off the ground to prevent moisture, pests, and decay.
• Embrace safe and efficient burning: Use dry firewood and proper fire-starting techniques for a warm, enjoyable fire experience.

Ready to transform your Sydney home into a cosy haven with the crackle of a real fire? Big Chief’s Firewood is your one-stop shop for premium, seasoned firewood. We offer a variety of hardwood options, convenient delivery services, and expert advice to ensure a stress-free experience.

Contact us today or visit our Shop Firewood page to learn more and place your order!