Buying firewood can be an expensive proposition. So it would be wise to consider several aspects before purchasing. These factors include the type and length of firewood, the time of year to buy firewood, and the trees to cut. Here are some guidelines to help you save money on firewood.
Cost of firewood delivery
Firewood delivery services offer a convenient and inexpensive way to get firewood. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a delivery service. For example, the quality of the firewood can vary, so you should be sure to buy local if possible. Also, remember that not all firewood is appropriately treated and may carry invasive fungi or pests.
Depending on where you reside and how much wood you purchase. For example, a big box service might cost about $20, including shipping, while a minor artisan service may charge $50 or more.
Moreover, some services require stacking or dumping the wood, which can add additional fees. The amount of wood you buy can also vary based on the wood you need.
Getting firewood is simple but may not be feasible for some people. Aside from visiting a local wood, people can also look for a reliable delivery company online. Craigslist is a good resource, but it can be risky. A search engine like Search Tempest can help you find a wide variety of wood in your area.
Length of firewood
Firewood comes in a variety of sizes. The standard length is 16 inches. Most firewood for sale is approximately four feet high, four feet wide, and eight feet long. A full cord can contain 128 cubic feet of wood. It weighs about 5,000 pounds.
Firewood is most effective when it is dense so that it will provide long-lasting coals. It will also produce fewer sparks and smoke. To properly season firewood, you must air dry it for a season or more. It should also be cut, split, and stacked to fit inside the firebox. Most stoves require logs that are at least 16 inches long.
If you have a fireplace that is larger than the average, you should consider getting a longer length of wood. This type of wood is approximately twice as long as standard firewood, and you can use it for a longer burn time. However, extended-length firewood may be more difficult to light than traditional cut firewood.
Time of year to buy firewood
Early spring is a great time to buy firewood because supplies are plentiful and prices are lower, so you can get a good deal and avoid the price hikes that will happen next winter. With fuel costs predicted to increase next winter, people may turn to woodstoves and fireplaces to offset these costs. The rising use of woodstoves and fireplaces will also increase the demand for firewood. By buying firewood now, you can beat those price hikes that will hit you next fall.
Early buying firewood ensures that the wood has the time to dry correctly and is ready to burn. Buying firewood a couple of months in advance is best for most wood types. This way, you have plenty of time to stack it and prepare for any sudden temperature changes. If you want to buy wood later in the season, you can get kiln-dried firewood, which has been dried and is ready to burn. However, the cost of kiln-dried wood is higher.
Buying firewood during the summer or spring is also a good idea, as prices are lower during these seasons. However, you should also avoid moving firewood to another location, which can spread certain insects. In addition, you should only move firewood within 50 miles of your home.
Trees to cut for firewood
Before cutting down a tree for firewood, there are numerous things to consider. Choosing the right tree is essential because not all types are suitable for firewood. First, you should look for trees with high timber value, which means they’re usually large with few limbs and knots. These trees will also be more valuable if you turn them into lumber. It would be best to avoid trees with many limbs and crooked trunks.
You can also cut dead trees, but avoid removing them from private property. If the tree is on personal property, you should check if any objects could cause the tree to fall. If not, you can cut large branches to reveal the trunk. If the tree is hollow, you may still be able to salvage a reasonable amount of firewood.
The amount of firewood you can get from a single tree will depend on the size and age of the tree. A small tree may only produce a few logs or kindling, but a mature tree can have a full cord of firewood.
