Kiln Dried vs. Seasoned: Which Firewood Should You Choose?

Kiln Dried vs. Seasoned: Which Firewood Should You Choose?

Not sure if you should choose kiln-dried or seasoned firewood? This post provides an overview of the two types of firewood so you can make an informed decision.

 

When selecting firewood for your home heating needs, it's essential to understand their relative benefits. While both options have their pros and cons, kiln-dried firewood typically offers more advantages compared to seasoned wood. However, selecting the ideal type for your specific requirements can be daunting due to all of the different factors to take into account.


Commercial, "seasoned" firewood contains 25% moisture content. At Corrin Kiln-Dried Firewood, our moisture content is 3% or less. Kiln-dried firewood has a lower moisture content than standard wood and burns brighter, longer, and with less smoke than standard wood. We only use fibrous, dense species that burn hotter and more efficiently. Call today 302-656-6077 or place your order online.


In this article, we'll take a look at the differences between kiln-dried and seasoned firewood so you can make the better decision.

Understand the Differences between Kiln Dried and Seasoned Firewood.

Kiln-dried firewood contains less moisture content than seasoned wood, having been dried at high temperatures to reduce moisture to 10-20%. This process makes it easier to start a fire, the fire burns hotter, and produces less smoke.


On the other hand, seasoned wood has been naturally dried for at least six months with moisture levels between 20-30%. Seasoned wood burns longer with an aromatic scent than kiln-dried firewood while being more cost-effective. But watch out… Most commercial “seasoned’ firewood has not been seasoned enough. This makes it much riskier to buy in stores.


It's difficult to maintain a low moisture content by seasoning. There are many things that can go wrong when drying wood.


Kiln-dried wood is perfect for burning because it doesn't have to go through any of these problems. This is the fastest, easiest, and most reliable way to get the firewood you want!

Learn About Environmental Considerations When Picking Firewood.

Firewood can be an eco-friendly option for providing heat and warmth when burned responsibly. However, if you're using firewood from an unsustainable source, it could have negative environmental impacts. It's important to determine where the wood you are burning is coming from, and whether it has been sustainably harvested or not.


The Corrin pledge: Our green pledge is to promote sustainability. While taking down trees is rarely preferred, we don't waste them. When we remove or prune trees, it's because they pose risks to people or property, and their materials are recycled into heating fuel, lumber, mulch, and other products, so nothing goes to waste.


Contact us today to place your order online.


Kiln-dried wood and seasoned wood can both provide an eco-friendly way to use a renewable resource for heat in your home. 


Corrin Kiln-Dried Firewood is dried to perfection, with a moisture content of 3% or lower. Our firewood is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, as it has extremely low moisture content that offers easy lighting and bright, hot flames. Not to mention minimal smoke. We only use carved wood from chosen hardwoods for maximum efficiency and heat output - including premium quality kiln dried oak firewood and ash among several other species.

Identify The Benefits of Using Kiln-Dried Firewood.

Kiln-dried firewood is a great and sustainable option for those wanting to use wood to heat their homes.


Kiln-dried wood is dried in an oven at temperatures of around 120°C, using the heat generated in the burning process. This helps remove most of the moisture from the wood, making it extremely dry and ready to burn quickly.


  • Burns easier for a longer duration
  • Produces brighter flames with minimal smoke 
  • Can be used indoors or outdoors safely and effectively

Not only does this make your firewood easier to light, but it also has a higher energy output when burned because of its extremely low moisture content.

Explore the Positive Aspects of Using Seasoned Firewood.

Seasoned firewood is one of the more popular choices for firewood because of its availability and affordability. It has a moisture content that is lower than green wood, but still higher than kiln-dried.


The benefit of having some moisture left in the wood is that it will burn longer and produce an aromatic scent.


The downside to using seasoned firewood is that it takes longer to light, does not burn as hot as kiln dried firewood, and can produce significant amounts of smoke.


Nevertheless, many people still opt for seasoned firewood due to its cost-effectiveness as there are no additional costs associated with drying it out like with kiln-dried products. It is less expensive than kiln dried wood but also has a higher risk of being sold to you by companies that haven't properly seasoned the wood. It takes so much time to dry that it can be difficult to find well-seasoned lumber throughout the year.


This is not true for kiln dried wood. It's simple to make all year round, and you can be sure that the moisture level won't rise much because the kiln eliminates all variables from the drying process.

Which Burns Better: Kiln Dried or Seasoned Wood?

Kiln dried wood burns more efficiently and cleanly than seasoned wood due to the removal of moisture from the log. Seasoned wood still contains considerable moisture, leading to smoke buildup in chimneys.


Kiln dried wood also tends to have a more consistent moisture content and quality, providing for a consistent burn. While cheaper or more accessible seasoned wood may be, kiln dried wood offers cleaner burning with better efficiency.


The controlled environment in the kiln allows to keep the wood below 20% moisture. There is no risk of harmful emissions or extra smoke. Instead, you get a fire that lights easily, burns longer, is brighter, and produces less smoke than a fire made with seasoned wood.

Compare Prices for Different Types of Firewoods.

Before making your purchasing decision, it is important to compare prices for different types of firewood.


For instance, kiln-dried firewood may be more expensive initially, but you will get a higher quality product that burns more efficiently and produces less smoke.


On the other hand, seasoned firewood is naturally dried over an extended period of time (up to a year or more), using less energy but taking longer to produce. While cheaper, seasoned wood may contain a higher moisture content and lower energy output when burned. This leads to more smoke and creosote buildup in chimneys.


Consider the overall costs associated with each type of firewood to ensure you get the best value for your money.


Where to Buy Kiln Dried Firewood?


Corrin Kiln-Dried Firewood is the gold standard of firewood. Our kiln-dried firewood has a moisture content of 3% or less, which makes them perfect for campfires, indoor fires, pizza ovens, and more. With 5 species to choose from including seasonal blends and traditional oak and hickory, you’re sure to find the ideal fuel for your fire. 


Call today 302-656-6077 or place your order online.

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