Best And Worst Types Of Wood For Your Fireplace
In Minnesota, fall means chilly nights and warm fireplaces. You probably already know that, but do you know the best and worst types of wood for your fireplace? Why is that important? Because some wood burns better than others, and some wood is dangerous when burned. Let's take a closer look.
Best Types of Wood for Your Fireplace
Oak: Oak is a hardwood that generates a minute flame and a steady heat. It also burns for a long time. However, it needs to be cured for at least a year.
Hickory: Hickory is known to create high heat, and its signature hickory smell which makes it so popular for smoking meat; it's undoubtedly one of the best woods for burning.
Maple: Like oak, maple produces a steady flame with a constant heat output. Its subtly sweet smell puts one in mind of maple syrup.
Ash: Ash burns steadily and delivers a fair amount of heat, even when green. But like all woods, it's better once it has been cured.
Birch: Unlike oak, birch burns quickly but can give off heat that doesn't overwhelm. The bark of the birch also makes an excellent fire starter.
Cherry: While cherry wood gives off a pleasant fragrance when burned, it doesn't burn as hot as other wood.
Worst Types of Wood for Your Fireplace
Pine: The upside of pine is that it can burn hot and can be used for kindling. The downside is that it produces a lot of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can accumulate in your chimney's flue, raising the risk of a chimney fire.
Spruce: Spruce is similar to pine; it's pitchy and can lead to creosote build-up.
Poplar: This wood produces an awful smell when burned.
Green or Wet Wood: Any wood that has yet to be appropriately cured will produce excessive smoke and inadequate heat and can lead to creosote accumulation. Always burn dry wood in your fireplace.
Driftwood: It might seem tempting because of its abundance on our lake shores, but burning driftwood releases toxic chemicals due to its salt content and can harm your family and pets.
Treated or Painted Wood: Any wood that's been chemically treated or painted releases toxic fumes when burned, some of which will not only make your family and pets sick, but can be deadly as well. Never burn treated wood in your fireplace
Typed of Wood That Don't Burn Well in Your Fireplace
Willow: Willow doesn't burn hot and tends to produce exorbitant amounts of smoke.
Alder: This wood is just a lot of work for no results. Alder burns quickly and doesn't produce much heat.
Chestnut: Produces a lot of smoke and a weak flame.
Gum: Prone to producing sparks, which can become a fire hazard.
To Sum Up
In conclusion, the type of wood you choose can significantly impact the warmth, atmosphere, and safety of your fireplace. Remember to ensure the wood you burn in your fireplace is cured, and avoid burning wood that's been treated with chemicals or painted. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your fireplace and chimney by a qualified chimney sweep service is an excellent way to prevent potential fire hazards.
Twin City Can Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace and Chimney
If you live in the Edina area (952-941-2685) or Woodbury area (651-204-0112), call us today or complete our simple contact form to have your chimney and fireplace inspected. One of our chimney specialists will gladly schedule our certified chimney sweeps to inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney. They can even answer any questions you may have about what type of wood to use in your fireplace.