The density of wood also has an effect on the amount of energy contained within firewood and therefore the heat output produced. Hardwood species like ash and oak tend to grow more slowly than softwoods like pine and therefore have more energy contained within them for the same volume. This means that if you burn hardwoods instead of softwoods you will use less logs for the same heat output.
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Best firewood species
Not all firewood is created equal! If you’re seasoned in wood heating, you’re likely aware of this, but if you’re just starting out, you might find it surprising how much the type of logs you choose can impact your experience.
In the UK, three tree species stand out as top contenders for firewood: oak, birch, and ash.
Oak is renowned for its longevity and exceptional heat output, making it a favorite for those who want a steady, long-lasting burn. Interestingly, it’s also the wood of choice for authentic Italian pizzerias, prized for its ability to create the perfect cooking environment.
Birch is a delight to burn—easy to ignite, it produces a vibrant flame and has a lovely aroma. Its visually appealing bark and light color can also enhance the aesthetics of your firewood stack.
Ash is often regarded as the gold standard. It combines the easy lighting properties of birch with the impressive heat output of oak, making it an excellent all-rounder for your heating needs.
Choosing between ash, oak, and birch depends on your specific preferences and requirements. If you have questions or need personalized advice, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the best firewood for your needs!
Wood Advice
The Log Shop stock only the best quality hardwood logs. We specialise in kiln dried logs at fantastic prices. We provide our customers with a choice of kiln dried hardwood logs, enabling us to meet your needs.
For the best heat output it’s important to always buy firewood that is as dry as possible and produced from a good quality hardwood species. You should always buy firewood by volume and not by the ‘load’ or by weight, as this will help you compare prices and ensure you receive the amount of logs that you ordered.
Any reputable firewood merchant will be pleased to tell you the moisture content, species and volume of the logs you are buying
Log Moisture Content (MC)
The moisture content of wood has the biggest effect on the amount of heat that your firewood will produce. When trees are felled, they typically have a water content of 50% or more. If you burn wet logs, much of the energy locked up within the firewood will be used to dry the wood and produce steam, rather than heating your room.
Typically you will need to burn 3 logs with a moisture content of 50% to get the same heat output as burning 1 log with a moisture content of 20%. Here at the Log Shop we will only ever sell Logs below 20% moisture!
