Drying time is greatly reduced if wood is cut into firewood length and split, especially pieces
larger than 8 inches in diameter. Splitting is easiest when wood is frozen or green and should
be done before wood is stacked. Wood must be properly stacked for satisfactory drying. The
greater the surface area exposed to air, the more rapid the drying. Therefore, stack wood
loosely and keep it off moist ground. The stack should be located in an open area for good air
circulation--avoid stacking in wood lots for seasoning.
Store firewood outdoors, under partial or full protection from the elements, and no closer than
25 feet from the house. Keep area around wood clear of weeds, leaves, debris, etc., to
discourage rodents, snakes, insects, and other unwanted pests from making their home in the
stacked wood. Avoid storing large quantities in the house, warm garage or basement because
the heat will activate insect and fungi or spore activity and bring about hatching of any insect
eggs in or on the wood.
With the arrival of colder temperatures, many of us either cut or buy firewood. To keep your
investment of time or money from going up in smoke, pay attention to the density, quantity and
seasoning of firewood.
Wood species have different heat values so consider what you want to accomplish with a fire
before buying firewood.
Softwoods like pines ignite easily and produce a hot flame. Because pines contain so much
resin, they burn out quickly so you'll need to watch the fire closely and add more wood to
keep it going.
Cord. It is the legally defined measurement for firewood. In some states, wood must be
advertised and sold by the cord or fractions of a cord. A cord must equal 128 cubic feet of
wood. To measure wood, stack it in a row with individual pieces touching and parallel to each
other. Stacks should be 8 feet wide, 4 feet deep and 4 feet high, or 16 feet wide, 2 feet deep
and 4 feet high. If you're a weekend fire maker, a third of a cord of wood should be sufficient
for a season. If you heat your home with wood, buy a cord. If stacked properly, about a third
of a cord fits in the back of a pickup. Ask for logs 16 inches to 22 inches long. If logs are
longer, they may not fit inside the fireplace opening. Firewood Rating Chart
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