How Dry Should Your Burning Logs Be? The Importance of Moisture Levels in Logs

If you use a burner, stove, or open fire, one of the most important factors in getting the best results is the moisture content of your burning logs. Many people underestimate how much difference moisture makes, but it’s the single biggest factor in how efficiently your logs will burn. The drier the log, the more heat you get, the longer the burn time, and the cleaner the flame.

Why Moisture Levels Matter in Burning Logs

Freshly cut wood can hold up to 60% water. When you burn logs with this much moisture, a large amount of the heat is wasted on boiling away water instead of warming your home. This creates more smoke, more soot, and poor efficiency overall.

For efficient burning, the ideal moisture level is below 20%. This is why kiln-dried firewood is so popular — it guarantees consistent dryness. Compared to a freshly cut log, a properly dried log will:

• Produce more heat from less wood

• Burn longer with a more reliable flame

• Reduce tar build-up in your chimney or flue

• Lower emissions for a cleaner, eco-friendlier burn

Removing Moisture from Wood

There are two main ways to reduce moisture in logs: air-drying (seasoning) and kiln-drying.

• Seasoned firewood is left outside to dry naturally, but depending on conditions, it can take up to two years and may still hold more moisture than is ideal.

• Kiln drying uses controlled heat and airflow to remove water quickly and consistently, leaving logs at the recommended moisture level.

The result is premium kiln dried hardwood logs that light easily, provide steady heat, and last much longer than untreated firewood.

The Best Hardwood Logs for Efficient Burning

Different hardwoods have different burning qualities, and many households prefer a mix to balance flame and burn time.

• Ash logs are known for their reliable flame and easy lighting.

• Oak logs and kiln dried oak burn slower, giving excellent burn time and consistent heat overnight.

• Dried birch produces a bright, lively flame that is great for quick warmth.

• Beech firewood burns hot and clean, leaving minimal residue.

These hardwood firewood logs outperform softwoods, which burn quickly but don’t provide the same heat or longevity. For households looking for efficiency, oak firewood and ash are among the most popular choices.

Fire Logs, Briquettes, and Heat Logs

Alongside traditional logs, many people now use alternatives such as briquettes and heat logs. These compressed products are made from recycled wood waste and are designed for efficient burning.

• Briquettes are consistent in size, easy to stack, and burn hot with little ash left behind.

• Heat logs provide a steady flame and are often used alongside kiln-dried burning logs for long evenings by the fire.

• Fire logs (also known as instant logs) are handy for quick lighting and short-term use.

These options can be a great supplement to your main supply of kiln dried firewood, especially when you want convenience and efficiency.

Using Logs Beyond the Fireplace

While most customers buy logs for stoves and burners, kiln-dried logs are also excellent for outdoor cooking. Oak firewood and kiln dried oak in particular are popular for use on a BBQ or outdoor oven, as they provide a long burn time and a subtle smoky flavour. Pairing dried log pieces with kindling wood makes outdoor cooking easy, as the fire lights quickly and produces a steady heat.

Buying Options: Handy Bags, Loads, and Collection

At Woodshire, we make it simple to buy firewood in a way that suits your needs.

• Handy bags of dried burning logs are perfect for occasional use or smaller burners.

• Loose loads are ideal for families relying on firewood as a main heating source.

• Customers can also collect directly from us, saving on delivery and stocking up when needed.

Every item is clearly priced, whether it’s a single bag, several handy bags, or a bulk delivery. This flexibility makes it easy to balance cost, convenience, and efficiency.

Final Thoughts

The moisture level of your firewood directly affects the efficiency, heat output, and lifespan of your fire. Choosing kiln-dried hardwood logs — whether ash, oak, birch, or beech — guarantees a longer burn time, more heat, and a cleaner fire. Alternatives such as briquettes, heat logs, and instant fire logs can also be useful for convenience or BBQ cooking.

With options ranging from handy bags to bulk loads, Woodshire makes it easy to get quality dried logs at the right price. For households in Stourbridge, Dudley, Kidderminster, Wolverhampton, Bridgnorth, and Halesowen, we are the trusted local firewood supplier for efficient burning all year round.