Green Firewood vs. Seasoned Firewood: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right firewood for heating or campfires is essential for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. The two main options are green firewood (freshly cut wood with high moisture content) and seasoned firewood (wood that has been dried for months to reduce moisture). Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you decide which best suits your needs.

What Is Green Firewood?

Green firewood is freshly cut and contains a high moisture content, usually around 50% or more. Because it hasn’t had time to dry, it burns less efficiently, creating more smoke and creosote buildup in chimneys.

✅ Pros of Green Firewood:

• Lower cost – Green wood is typically cheaper than seasoned firewood.
• More availability – Easier to source in bulk, especially in the spring and summer.
• Option to season yourself – Buying green wood and allowing it to dry can save money.

❌ Cons of Green Firewood:

• Hard to burn – High moisture content makes it difficult to light and maintain a fire.
• Lower heat output – More energy is spent evaporating water instead of producing warmth.
• More smoke & creosote buildup – Can lead to chimney blockages and increased maintenance.

What Is Seasoned Firewood?

Seasoned firewood has been cut, split, and allowed to dry for at least 6-12 months, reducing its moisture content to 20% or less. This makes it more efficient and safer for home heating.

✅ Pros of Seasoned Firewood:

• Burns efficiently – Produces more heat and less smoke.
• Easier to light – Requires less effort to start a fire.
• Safer for chimneys – Reduces creosote buildup and lowers the risk of chimney fires.

❌ Cons of Seasoned Firewood:

• Higher cost – Seasoned wood is more expensive due to storage and drying time.
• Limited supply – High demand in winter can make it harder to find.
• Needs proper storage – If not stored correctly, seasoned wood can reabsorb moisture.

Tips for Seasoning Your Own Firewood

If you choose to buy green firewood and season it yourself, follow these steps to ensure it dries properly:

1. Split the wood – Smaller pieces dry faster than large logs.
2. Stack it properly – Use a firewood rack or stack it on pallets to keep it off the ground.
3. Allow airflow – Stack wood loosely and avoid covering the sides to promote drying.
4. Keep it covered – Protect the top with a tarp or woodshed roof to prevent rain exposure.
5. Let it dry for at least 6-12 months – The longer, the better!

Which Firewood Is Right for You?

• If you need immediate firewood for home heating or camping, go with seasoned firewood.
• If you want to save money and plan ahead, buying green firewood in the spring and seasoning it yourself is a great option.

Get High-Quality Firewood in the Ottawa Valley

At Alice Forestry Co., we offer green and seasoned hardwood, softwood, and mixed firewood by the cord. Serving Pembroke, Petawawa, Laurentian Valley, Cobden, Chalk River, and surrounding areas, we ensure sustainably sourced, high-quality firewood for your heating needs.

🔥 Order your firewood today! Contact us for pricing and delivery options.