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A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing, Splitting and Storing Firewood Like a Pro

firewood

Choosing, splitting, and storing firewood is an important skill to know especially for wood-burning fireplace and stove owners.

In this article, we have tried to provide you with a detailed guide to selecting, splitting, and storing firewood like a pro. So pay attention as closely as possible.

Selecting firewood

You have two options as far as selecting firewood is concerned. These are:

  • You can get the wood on your own,

OR

  • You can get your wood from a reliable firewood dealer.

In case you are getting your firewood on your own…

If you are going out and getting your firewood out of a fallen tree, you need to keep the following things in mind to get the best possible results:

  • At first, there’s the timing to be taken care of. It’s advisable to start on the job almost 6 months in advance (to the time when you are planning to burn the same). This will make sure of the fact that your wood gets the maximum time for drying which can be considered to be a definite upside in itself.
  • Your second step should be to keep the log ends as flat as possible. This will ensure easy splitting at the time of your need.
  • Last but not the least, avoid cutting through knots. Knots make splitting difficult.

A tree knot

In case you are getting your firewood on from a reliable dealer…

It is the most convenient option of the lot. Hence, it comes at a “price” which is worth it for sure.

There are a few things that you need to remember as far as the purchase of firewood is concerned. For example:

  • It has been commonly seen that most wood vendors tend to up the price of their wares (firewood) at the time of the winter. Therefore, it is advisable to get them before schedule to stay at an advantage.
  • Most firewood sellers sell firewood in the form of redwood, softwood, and hardwood. It’s advisable to go for hardwood because it has a longer shelf life I comparison to the rest. So make your choice wisely.

Splitting firewood

We’ll explain the steps systematically for better comprehensibility. So pay attention as closely as possible.

  • At first, you would have to make sure that you have enough space reserved for the job. For splitting firewood, it is advisable to select an open space that’s less accessible to the outsiders.Splitting firewood
  • The first obvious thing that you should know about the swing is to keep both of your hands firmly stuck on the handle of your axe. Estimate the rough distance between yourself and the piece of wood and bring your axe down with all your might. And try to ensure that the axe enters the wood from the top (just like the image shown below). If you fail to do so, reposition again and start over.Splitting firewood1
  • Sometimes, you may find that the wood hasn’t even split completely. In such situations, pick up the unfinished piece with the axe blade stuck deep inside it, turn the axe over and bring it down with all your might. The reverse pressure can help in splitting the wood in a matter of second.

Note: While splitting firewood, do remember to wear protective gear for safety purposes. Small things like that can help to keep accidental injuries at bay in the best possible manner.

Storing firewood

  • The last part is storage.Storing firewood

Stack your firewood well in an organised manner. Then allow them to dry in a moisture-less environment (the drying process should be done for 6 months straight to get the best results). After all, freshly cut wood comes with a high moisture content which can significantly reduce the wood burning capacity. So make sure you do accordingly.

So that’s it then. It’s time we bring this to an end for now. Hope you find the tips handy for your purpose. Ciao!

If you have any questions, please ask below!