Firewood Suppliers Near WI

A roaring fire is more than just warmth; it's a Wisconsin winter necessity, and finding the right wood can make all the difference. As someone who’s been hauling, splitting, and stacking firewood for decades, I’ve learned a thing or two about what burns best in our humid summers and biting cold. Trust me, you want quality wood, not those glorified kindling bundles from the gas station or green wood that just smokes. Buying local isn't just about supporting your neighbors; it’s critical for protecting our forests from invasive pests.

The Best Firewood Types in Wisconsin

Our state is blessed with a variety of hardwoods perfect for heating and ambiance. Knowing the characteristics of each will help you choose wisely when looking for firewood for sale in Wisconsin.

For Serious Heat (High BTU)

• Oak (Red & White): This is the king for long, hot burns. Oak is dense, meaning it has a high BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, and produces long-lasting coals. It takes longer to season, but it’s worth the wait for those deep winter nights.
• Maple (Sugar & Red): Another fantastic choice for heat. Maple burns hot and clean, offering a good balance of warmth and a pleasant, subtle aroma. It’s a reliable all-around performer.

For Ambiance & Kindling

• Birch (Paper & Yellow): Birch burns faster than oak or maple, making it great for starting fires or for shorter, cheerful burns. It has a beautiful, bright flame and a nice, subtle scent. It’s also good for kindling if split thin.
• Ash (Green & White): Ash offers medium heat and is known for being easy to split and burning relatively clean. Historically, it was a solid choice, but with the threat of the Emerald Ash Borer, its availability and health are concerns.

Your Firewood Buying Guide

Don't get shorted or stuck with green wood. Here's what to look for:

Cords & Moisture Content

• Full Cord vs. Face Cord: Always clarify what you're buying. A full cord is a stacked pile measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long (128 cubic feet). A "face cord" is a much smaller, variable amount, often just 16 or 24 inches deep, and will leave you short. Ask for exact dimensions.
• Moisture Matters: Good firewood should have less than 20% moisture content. You can spot seasoned wood by its dark, cracked ends, lighter weight, and a hollow sound when two pieces are knocked together. For the best, most efficient burn, especially when you need it right away, consider kiln-dried wood. It's been artificially dried to optimal moisture levels.

When to Buy

• The best time to buy is typically late spring to early fall. This ensures you get well-seasoned wood that’s had ample time to dry, and you’ll avoid the rush (and sometimes higher prices) as winter approaches. Many suppliers offer seasoned firewood delivery if you plan ahead.

Wisconsin Firewood Regulations

Our state is serious about protecting its natural resources, and you should be too.

The 10-Mile Rule

• The Wisconsin DNR prohibits bringing firewood onto state properties (like state parks, forests, and campgrounds) from outside Wisconsin or from more than 10 miles away from your destination, unless it's certified. This means buying local is not just a suggestion; it's often a requirement.

Why the Strict Rules?

• These regulations are crucial for preventing the spread of destructive invasive pests like the Emerald Ash Borer and the Spongy Moth. These tiny hitchhikers can devastate entire forests, and moving firewood is one of their primary ways of spreading.

Conclusion

Getting good, dry firewood is essential for a proper Wisconsin fire, whether you're heating your home or gathered around a campfire. Know your wood types, understand what a full cord means, and always prioritize seasoned or kiln-dried wood with low moisture content. Following the state's regulations protects our beautiful forests and ensures a healthy supply of wood for years to come.

Don't settle for less. Reach out to your trusted local suppliers for seasoned firewood delivery and enjoy a proper Wisconsin fire.