Ever wonder why some firewood makes your fireplace roar like a lion while others barely get a whimper out of it? It's all about the type of wood you're burning. For local buyers, the type of firewood you choose can significantly impact the heat output (like oak's 24 million BTUs compared to pine's 15 million), the burn time, and the amount of smoke produced—all crucial factors in your area. Different regions have unique traits when it comes to firewood. For instance, cherry wood is prized in the Northeast for its delightful aroma, while ash is a go-to in the Midwest for its ease of splitting. This guide will help you compare the woods available locally for your fireplaces, stoves, and BBQs. Learn more about buying firewood in your area.

Hardwood vs Softwood: The Fundamental Difference

When it comes to firewood, understanding the difference between hardwood and softwood can be a game-changer. Hardwoods like oak and maple are dense, packing a powerful punch with 20-28 million BTUs per cord. They burn longer, often for up to 8 hours, making them a staple in the Eastern US. On the other hand, softwoods such as pine and fir are lighter and quicker to ignite, usually within 2 minutes. These are abundant in the Pacific Northwest and offer 15-18 million BTUs per cord.

Let's talk costs. Hardwoods like oak, which produce low smoke, can range from $300 to $600 per cord, while softwoods like pine, which have moderate smoke, typically cost between $150 and $350 per cord, depending on your area. Hardwoods are perfect for heating your home, especially during those long, cold winters in the Northern states. Softwoods, however, are ideal for kindling, perfect for those spring fires or camping trips.

For example, oak is fantastic for overnight heating, providing a steady, long-lasting burn. Pine, however, is great for quick startups.

Premium Hardwood Firewood

Oak Firewood

Oak is a top-tier choice for firewood enthusiasts. When it comes to oak, you have two options: red and white. White oak packs a hotter punch, with 26 million BTUs per cord. But to get the best out of it, you need to season your oak properly. This means waiting 6-12 months until the moisture content drops below 20%.

The pros of oak are numerous—long burn times, for one. However, it's not without its cons. Oak is notoriously hard to split, often requiring a hydraulic splitter to get the job done. Despite this, it's widely used for fireplaces and stoves, especially for overnight heating in a 2,000 sq ft home. You can expect to pay between $300 and $500 per cord for oak, and it's readily available in most regions.

Ash Firewood

Ash is another premium hardwood that's worth considering. With a BTU rating of 20 million per cord, ash is easy to split due to its straight grain. It can even burn at 25% moisture if needed. Ash is perfect for steady heating, making it a popular choice for those harsh Midwest winters. You might need about 2 cords to get through the season.

Ash firewood is priced between $250 and $400 per cord, but be aware that its availability can be limited due to the ash borer. Despite this, ash remains a favorite for many, offering a reliable and consistent burn.

Choosing the right type of firewood can make all the difference in your heating experience. Whether you're looking for the long, steady burn of oak or the easy-to-split nature of ash, there's a perfect match out there for you.

Birch Firewood

White birch, with its 20 million BTUs per cord, is a fast-burning beauty. Imagine cozy evenings by the fire, the flames dancing prettily in the hearth. Birch is not just about the fire; its bark is fantastic kindling. Ever tried to start a fire in a hurry? Birch bark can get it going in just 2 minutes. It’s perfect for those who love aesthetic fires, like those spent reading a book or enjoying a glass of wine. Birch is also quite popular for its visual appeal. Pricing for birch firewood typically ranges from $350 to $550 per cord, making it a premium choice for those who appreciate both form and function.

Cherry Firewood

Cherry firewood, with its 20 million BTUs per cord, is another premium option. It’s not just about the heat; it’s about the sweet aroma that fills the air when you burn it. This makes cherry a favorite for barbecues and smoking meats, like ribs. The coals it produces are beautiful and long-lasting, making it ideal for open fireplaces. Ever tried smoking ribs with cherry wood? The flavor is unparalleled. Cherry firewood is a bit pricier, ranging from $400 to $600 per cord. But the experience it offers is worth every penny. It’s a premium choice for those who want both performance and flavor.

Hickory Firewood

Hickory is an ultra-dense hardwood that burns very hot and produces long-lasting coals, making it excellent for wood stoves and smokers. Properly seasoned hickory delivers about 28.5 million BTUs per cord, placing it near the top for heat output. Its density means longer seasoning times and more effort when splitting, but the payoff is steady heat and a classic smoky flavor ideal for BBQ and smoking meats.

Black Locust Firewood

Black locust is exceptionally dense and prized for high heat and durability. When well-seasoned, it produces roughly 27–28 million BTUs per cord and forms excellent coals that radiate heat for extended periods while leaving relatively little ash. It’s superb for stoves and efficient heaters. However, it can pop and throw sparks, so take care in open fireplaces and use a robust spark screen or enclosed unit.

Other Notable hardwoods

Maple, with its 22 million BTUs per cord, offers a steady and reliable burn, making it perfect for stoves. Beech, with 24 million BTUs per cord, is dense and long-lasting, ideal for those who want a fire that burns through the night. Hickory, known for its 28 million BTUs per cord, is a favorite for barbecues, providing that classic smoky flavor. Apple wood, with 26 million BTUs per cord, is aromatic and adds a sweet flavor to smoked meats. Almond wood, similar to apple but more regional (California), is another great option for those who love a good smoke. Each of these hardwoods offers unique benefits, making them valuable additions to any firewood collection.

Softwood Firewood

Pine Firewood

Pine firewood, with its 15 million BTUs per cord, is a popular choice for kindling and spring fires. It’s easier to manage creosote if the wood is dry. Pine is often used as kindling because it lights up quickly. It’s a great option for those who want a fire that gets going fast. Pine is also budget-friendly, with prices ranging from $150 to $250 per cord. It’s perfect for those who want a reliable fire without breaking the bank.

Fir firewood

Fir, particularly Douglas fir, is another softwood option with 18 million BTUs per cord. It’s known for being easy to split, making it a convenient choice for budget heating. Fir is popular in the Pacific Northwest, where it’s readily available. It’s a great option for those who want an affordable firewood option without sacrificing too much on quality. Prices for fir firewood typically range from $200 to $350 per cord. It’s a practical choice for those who need a reliable and affordable fuel source.

Cedar Firewood

Cedar is an aromatic softwood that lights quickly and makes excellent kindling and ambiance fires. Heat output varies by species: Western red cedar offers around 18 million BTUs per cord, while Eastern red cedar is closer to 13 million. Because cedar burns faster than hardwoods and has higher resin content, it can spark more and produce more creosote if burned wet. Use well-seasoned cedar primarily for kindling, campfires, and short indoor burns, and maintain chimneys regularly when burning softwoods.

Firewood Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Firewood type

Choosing the right type of firewood depends on several factors. First, match the wood to your appliance. Stoves need hardwoods like oak and maple, while barbecues benefit from cherry and hickory. Your budget is another important consideration. Pine is a budget-friendly option, while oak offers a good balance of quality and cost. Availability is also key. For example, ash is scarce in the Midwest, so you might need to look for alternatives. Always check local suppliers to ensure you have access to the wood you need. How to Find Local Firewood Suppliers for more tips.

Choosing the right type of firewood involves considering your appliance, budget, and availability. Seasoning is critical, aiming for moisture content below 20%. Recap: hardwoods for stoves, softwoods for kindling, and specific types for barbecues. Complete Guide to Buying Firewood and Firewood Pricing Guide for more details.

Related Resources:

• Complete Guide to Buying Firewood
• Firewood Pricing Guide
• How to Find Local Firewood Suppliers
• Firewood Delivery Services
• Firewood Calculator
• State-by-State Suppliers Directory