Homes & Gardens Magazine - Jan 2013

Nic Snell, partner at Certainly Wood, extols the virtues of kiln dried logs and why buying online is on the up

WHAT DO YOU SELL?

Certainly Wood is the UK’s largest firewood producer specialising in kiln dried hardwood logs and kindling from sustainable British woodland. All the wood comes from within 60 miles
of our base in Herefordshire.We also sell other wood fuel products, such as wood pellets, log stores, moisture meters and the wonderful Flamers natural firelighters.

WHY IS KILN DRIED WOOD BETTER THAN SEASONED?

Kiln dried wood is drier, with an average moisture content below 20%, so it won’t blacken the glass on your stove and, most importantly, is incredibly energy efficient giving off much more heat than other seasoned wood or softer woods such as larch. Quality is key, though, and that can vary. The majority of logs available are imported from Eastern Europe whereas we sell only approved British wood.

HOW IS THE WOOD DRIED?

Logs are cut into 25cm lengths and then split. After three to four weeks’ storage in bins, they are put in the kilns for about 40 hours. During this time a staggering 6,000 litres of water are removed for every 18 tonne load. Logs are then packed ready for despatch. The kilns are run on wood waste and solar panels help provide electricity.

CAN I USE IT IN SMOKE CONTROLLED ZONES?

Kiln-dried logs are perfect for burning in any type of fire, be it an open fire, wood burner even wood fired pizza oven. You can burn wood with a DEFRA approved appliance if you live in a smoke controlled zone and there are now more and more of these available.

IS BUYING WOOD ONLINE BECOMING MORE COMMON?

We sell wood through various retailers in the UK. If you want smaller quantities, buying from a shop is fine, but nothing beats the convenience of online ordering and delivery. We’ve certainly seen a huge rise in online sales.

WHAT ELSE DOES YOUR WEBSITE PROVIDE?

Customer service is a priority so we’re at the end of the phone to answer queries and provide help for those who are new to wood burning. There is lots of information on the site – we’re even planning an app, so watch this space.