Contents

• Part 1: Buying Firewood
• Part 2: Kiln-dried vs Seasoned Firewood
• Part 3: Firewood Quantities & Cost
• Part 4: Storing Firewood
• Part 5: Lighting Fires
• Part 6: Quick Firewood Buying Summary

This guide covers everything you need to know about kiln-dried logs. It explains how to choose the right firewood for your stove, open fire, pizza oven, or firepit. We cover the essential buying considerations – from wood species and moisture content to storage and cost- to ensure you get the most efficient burn.

As the UK pioneers of kiln-dried firewood, Certainly Wood has spent over 15 years perfecting the drying process. In fact, we were producing logs to ‘Ready to Burn’ standards long before the Woodsure Scheme was officially implemented. Whether you’re buying your first load or comparing suppliers, this guide shares our decades of expertise to help you make a more informed choice.

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Part 1: Buying Firewood

What’s The Best Firewood To Buy?

The best firewood is hardwood logs with a moisture content below 20%, certified by the Woodsure Ready to Burn Scheme.

For most UK households, kiln-dried hardwood logs are the most reliable choice because they’re produced under controlled conditions and offer consistent performance. Hardwood species such as oak, ash, beech and birch are especially popular because they produce strong heat, steady flames and a cleaner burn.

The ‘best’ firewood depends on how you plan to use it:

For a general household wood burner, kiln dried oak, ash, beech or birch logs are usually the best starting point. Explore our hardwood species guide to compare oak, ash, beech and birch in more detail.

Expert Advice From Certainly Wood: For the cleanest and most efficient burn, choose ‘Ready to Burn’ hardwood logs below 20% moisture content and store them correctly after delivery.

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Which Firewood Burns The Longest?

The firewood that burns the longest is usually dense hardwood such as oak. Oak is one of the slowest-burning hardwoods commonly used for firewood in the UK. It has a high density, which means it releases heat steadily over a longer period. This makes it a strong choice for larger stoves, open fires and overnight burning.

However, long burn time is not only about species. It also depends on:

• Moisture content
• Log size
• Stove efficiency
• Airflow control

How the fire is built: A dry oak log will burn far more efficiently than a wet oak log. Equally, a well-managed stove will extend burn time more effectively than a fire with too much uncontrolled airflow.

For the longest burn, choose kiln-dried oak logs and avoid closing the stove vents too early, as this can reduce combustion quality and increase smoke. Read our species guide for a fuller comparison of how different hardwoods burn.

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Which Firewood Gives The Most Heat?

The firewood that gives the most heat is dry, dense hardwood with a low moisture content. Oak, ash and beech are excellent heat-producing firewood species because they are dense hardwoods, meaning they have a higher calorific value. However, moisture content is just as important as species. Wet wood loses a large amount of energy evaporating water before it can produce usable heat.

This means that a less-dense, but dry log may outperform poorly seasoned oak, even though oak is naturally denser.

The best firewood for heat should be:

• Below 20% moisture content
• Properly stored
• Suitable for your appliance size
• Cut from hardwood species
• Certified as ‘Ready to Burn’ 

If you want maximum heat output from your wood burner, the most important factor is not simply choosing the densest species. It’s choosing properly dried firewood and burning it with good airflow.

Learn more about moisture and burning efficiency in our ‘What is Wet Wood (And Why You Shouldn’t Buy It) guide. 

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Hardwood vs Softwood: Which Is Better?

Hardwood is generally better for woodburners because it burns longer and produces more sustained heat, while softwood lights quickly but burns faster. Hardwood comes from broadleaf trees such as oak, ash, beech and birch. Softwood comes from coniferous trees such as pine, spruce and fir.

• Hardwood: Producing a slower burn, stronger embers and longer heat, hardwood is best for wood burners, open fires and heating.
• Softwood: With faster ignition but a shorter burn time, softwood is ideal for kindling, fire starting and occasional burning.

Hardwood is usually preferred for home heating because it creates a longer-lasting fire and requires less frequent refuelling. Softwood can still be burned safely if it’s properly dried, but it’s often better suited to kindling or quick after-work warmth rather than long, sustained burning. The key rule is simple: whatever species you choose, it must be dry. Wet hardwood is still poor firewood.

Read our hardwood vs softwood guide for a more detailed comparison.

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What’s The Best Firewood For Wood Burners?

The best firewood for wood burners is kiln-dried hardwood with a moisture content below 20%, particularly oak, ash, beech and birch. Oak is ideal for longer burns. Ash is a strong all-rounder. Birch lights easily and gives fast heat. Beech offers a steady, reliable burn.

Wood burners are designed to burn efficiently when using dry fuel and the right airflow. Wet or poorly seasoned logs can reduce stove efficiency, blacken the glass, create more smoke and increase soot or tar build-up in the flue.

For wood burners, look for:

• ‘Ready to Burn’ certification
• Moisture content below 20%
• Hardwood species
• Correctly-sized logs
• Clean storage and packaging

Expert Advice From Certainly Wood: Choosing logs based solely on price can be misleading. Cheap wet logs may appear better value, but you often need to burn more of them to achieve the same heat output.

Explore our kiln-dried firewood range and read our ’Ready to Burn’ guide for more information.

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What’s The Best Firewood For Open Fires?

The best firewood for open fires is dense kiln-dried hardwood with wider diameters because it creates a steadier, longer-lasting flame. Open fires are less efficient than modern wood burners because much of the heat escapes through the chimney. They also have less airflow control, which means very small or very dry thin logs may burn quickly.

For open fires, it’s useful to choose:

• A mix of different sized chunky logs
• Hardwood like oak, ash or beech
• Small logs to get started and larger logs for sustained burning

Read our guide to lighting a fire for the best advice on building a cleaner fire in an open fireplace.

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What Firewood Is Best For Pizza Ovens?

The best firewood for pizza ovens is thinner-cut, dry hardwood with low moisture content and low spitting behaviour, like ash or beech. Pizza ovens need fast, clean heat and good flame control. Smaller split logs are usually better than large chunky logs because they help the oven reach cooking temperature quickly and allow you to manage heat more easily.

Good pizza oven firewood should be:

• Kiln-dried
• Hardwood
• Below 20% moisture content
• Low-spitting
• Small, thin pieces
• Free from chemical treatments

Beech and ash are particularly popular for wood-fired cooking because they burn cleanly and provide steady heat.

Certainly Wood’s ‘Grill & Chill’ logs are designed for pizza ovens and outdoor cooking because they’re thinner, pre-split and easy to control. You can also read our outdoor cooking with wood guide for more advice.

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Which Firewood Is Best For Firepits & Campfires?

The best firewood for firepits and campfires is kiln-dried hardwood, as it produces better flames, stronger heat, and less smoke. Outdoor fires are often used for atmosphere as much as heat, so flame quality matters. Dry hardwood logs such as birch, ash and oak are good choices because they light well and burn more cleanly than wet or ‘green’ wood.

For firepits, chimeneas and campfires, choose firewood that is:

• Dry (preferably kiln-dried)
• Easy to light (birch is ideal)
• Suitable for outdoor burning
• Low smoke
• Varied in size, for better airflow

Wet wood is one of the main reasons outdoor fires become smoky and unpleasant. If your fire pit produces a lot of smoke it means the logs are too damp, or the fire’s not getting enough air. Explore our outdoor cooking wood fuel range. 

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Oak vs Ash Firewood: Which Is Better?

Oak firewood is better for longer burns, while ash firewood is a strong all-rounder that lights easily and produces reliable heat. Both oak and ash are excellent hardwood firewood species, but they burn slightly differently.

Oak is denser, so it tends to burn slowly and create long-lasting embers. Ash is often easier to light and provides a balanced burn, making it a popular everyday choice for wood burners.

For the best results, both species should be kiln-dried to a moisture content below 20%.

Read our species guide for more detailed advice on choosing between oak, ash, beech and birch.

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Birch vs Beech Firewood: Which Is Better?

Birch firewood is ideal for quick heat and easy lighting, while beech firewood is better for steady, longer-lasting heat. Birch is popular because it catches quickly and produces bright flames, making it ideal for lighting fires or creating fast warmth when you’re short of time. Beech is denser and generally provides a steadier burn, making it useful for longer heating periods and cooking applications.

If you want a fire that lights easily and is budget-friendly, birch is a great option. If you want more controlled heat, beech may be preferable. For many households, a mixed hardwood supply offers the best balance of lighting, flame and warmth.

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What Size Logs Should You Buy?

The best log size to buy depends on the size of your wood burner, fireplace or outdoor appliance. For most UK wood burners, 25cm logs are a practical standard size because they fit the majority of stoves. Larger open fires may suit 35cm or 50cm logs, while pizza ovens and smaller stoves often need thinner and shorter logs.

As a guide:

Choosing logs that are too large can make lighting difficult and restrict airflow. Choosing logs that are too small can cause the fire to burn too quickly. Read our firewood supplier guide to ensure you choose the best supplier for your needs.

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What Firewood Should You Avoid?

You should avoid wet, mouldy, treated, painted or chemically contaminated wood. Never burn: 

• Wet logs
• Painted wood
• Varnished wood
• Treated timber
• Pallets of unknown origin
• MDF or chipboard
• Driftwood
• Rotten logs
• Household waste

These materials can produce harmful smoke, damage appliances and create unsafe burning conditions. For home heating, always choose clean, dry, untreated firewood. Read our smoke control zone guide for more information on responsible burning.

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What Are The Most Common Firewood Buying Mistakes?

The most common firewood buying mistakes are buying wet logs, choosing the wrong log size, misunderstanding volume measurements and storing logs incorrectly. Here are the mistakes to avoid:

A good supplier should clearly explain moisture content, volume, delivery method and storage advice.

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Part 2: Kiln Dried Vs Seasoned Firewood

What Are Kiln-Dried Logs?

Kiln-dried logs are produced in a controlled kiln using heat and airflow to reduce moisture content. The main benefit of kiln drying is consistency. Because the drying environment is carefully controlled, kiln-dried logs can be brought down to the correct moisture level more reliably than logs left to ‘season’ naturally outdoors.

Kiln-dried logs are usually: 

• Easier to light
• Cleaner burning
• Lower in moisture
• More consistent
• Less likely to contain mould or pests
• Better suited to modern stoves

For UK homes, kiln-dried logs are often the most dependable firewood choice, especially for wood burners where efficiency and clean combustion matter. Discover more benefits of kiln dried logs in our blog. 

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What Are Seasoned Logs?

Seasoned logs are firewood logs that have been naturally air-dried over time. Seasoning can take many months or even years, depending on the wood species, log size, storage conditions and weather. Properly seasoned logs can burn well if they reach a moisture content of 20% or below.

Seasoned logs can be a viable option when:

• They’ve been dried for long enough
• They’re stored correctly
• Moisture content is checked before burning

However, seasoned firewood is often less consistent than kiln-dried firewood because natural drying depends heavily on airflow, rainfall, humidity and storage quality. If you buy seasoned logs, use a moisture meter to check they’re dry enough before burning.

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Kiln-Dried vs Seasoned Logs: Which Should You Choose?

Kiln-dried logs are usually the better choice if you want consistent, reliable firewood that’s ready to use straight away. Kiln drying doesn’t automatically make every log better, but it does make moisture control more reliable. Seasoned logs can perform well, but only if they’ve had time to  dry to the right moisture level. For most households, kiln-dried, ‘Ready to Burn’ hardwood logs are the safest and most consistent choice.

Read our kiln-dried vs seasoned guide for a fuller comparison.

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What Moisture Content Should Firewood Be?

Firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less before it’s burned. In England, wood sold in volumes under 2 cubic metres must be certified as ‘Ready to Burn’, which confirms a moisture content of 20% or less. GOV.UK states that ‘Ready to Burn’ wood has a guaranteed moisture content of 20% or less, and Woodsure administers the ‘Ready to Burn’ scheme on behalf of Defra.

Firewood with a moisture content above 20% isn’t suitable for efficient burning because too much energy is wasted evaporating water. Dry logs should:

• Feel lighter than wet logs
• Produce a clear sound when knocked together
• Show cracks or splits at the ends
• Burn with less smoke
• Create good heat quickly

For the most accurate check, use a moisture meter on the freshly split face of a log. Read our Ready to Burn guide for more details.

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Why Does Moisture Content Matter?

Moisture content matters because wet wood burns inefficiently, produces more smoke and gives off less usable heat. When a log contains too much water, the fire must use energy to evaporate that water before the wood can burn properly. This lowers the fire temperature and increases smoke, soot and particulate emissions.

Firewood with a moisture content below 20% helps:

• Improve heat output
• Reduce smoke
• Keep stove glass cleaner
• Reduce tar and soot build-up
• Improve appliance efficiency
• Support cleaner burning

Wet logs may seem cheaper at first, but they often cost more in practice because you need to burn more wood to achieve the same heat. Read more on the benefits of kiln-dried logs.

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What’s Ready-to-Burn Firewood?

‘Ready-to-Burn’ firewood is certified to guarantee that it has a moisture content of 20% or less. The ‘Ready to Burn’ scheme helps customers identify cleaner, more efficient wood fuel. Certified suppliers must meet testing and labelling requirements, and online sellers must display the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo where the fuel is advertised.

‘Ready to Burn’ firewood matters because it:

• Confirms the logs are dry enough to burn
• Helps reduce smoke
• Supports cleaner air
• Improves stove performance
• Gives customers confidence when buying firewood

Certainly Wood logs are ‘Ready to Burn’ certified, meaning they meet the required moisture standard for cleaner and more efficient burning. Shop our ‘Ready to Burn’ approved kiln-dried logs. 

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Part 3: Firewood Cost & Quantities

How Much Firewood Do You Need For Winter?

Most regular wood burner users in the UK use around 3–4 cubic metres of kiln-dried firewood over a typical winter. The exact amount depends on:

• How often you use your stove
• Whether the stove is a primary or secondary heat source
• The size of your home
• Insulation levels
• Stove efficiency
• Outside temperatures
• Log species and moisture content

A household using a stove occasionally at weekends will need far less than a household using a stove every evening. Dry wood is essential. If logs are wet, you may use significantly more because the fire produces less usable heat.

As a simple guide:

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What’s The Cheapest Way To Buy Firewood?

The cheapest way to buy firewood is usually in bulk quantities, as the price per cubic metre is lower than smaller bags or boxes. Firewood crates are often the best value because they’re stacked to reduce air pockets, have less packaging, and a lower delivery cost per log. However, the cheapest option is not always the best. If the logs are wet, poorly sized or difficult to store they don’t represent good value. When comparing firewood prices, consider:

• Moisture content
• Volume measurement
• Wood species (silver birch usually costs less as it burns slightly quicker) 
• Delivery cost
• Packaging type
• Whether the logs are ‘Ready to Burn’ certified
• Whether the volume is loose-filled or neatly stacked

A cheap load of wet wood can become expensive if it burns poorly and produces less heat. For best value, compare firewood by usable heat, not just upfront price. 

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Loose Fill vs Stacked Firewood: What’s The Difference?

Loose-fill firewood is measured when logs are tipped or packed loosely, while stacked firewood is measured when logs are tightly arranged. This matters because loose-filled logs contain more air gaps. A loose-filled cubic metre is not the same as a tightly stacked cubic metre. When comparing suppliers, always check:

• Loose-filled or neatly stacked
• Bag size
• Crate size
• Internal crate dimensions

Loose-fill sometimes looks like a greater quantity of wood because of the spaces between logs. Stacked logs give a denser measurement. Understanding this difference helps you compare firewood prices more fairly. Read our stacked vs loose firewood guide for a more detailed explanation.

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How Much Heat Does Firewood Produce?

The heat firewood produces depends on the wood species, density, moisture content and appliance efficiency. Dense hardwoods such as oak, ash and beech tend to produce strong heat. However, moisture content has a major impact. Dry firewood releases far more usable heat than wet firewood because less energy is wasted evaporating water.

The main factors affecting heat output are:

• Species density
• Moisture content
• Log size
• Stove efficiency
• Airflow settings
• How the fire is built

To get more heat from your firewood:

• Use ‘Ready to Burn’ logs with less than 20% moisture
• Store logs correctly
• Use the right log size
• Keep good airflow
• Avoid overloading the stove
• Don’t shut vents too early

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Part 4: Storing Firewood

How Should You Store Firewood?

Firewood should be stored under cover, off the ground and in a well-ventilated area. Even kiln-dried logs can absorb moisture again if exposed to rain or damp conditions. Good storage helps maintain the low moisture content and protects the quality of your firewood. The best way to store logs is to:

• Keep them off the ground
• Use a log store, garage or covered shelter
• Allow air to circulate
• Protect from direct rain
• Avoid sealing logs completely under plastic
• Rotate older stock first

 Read our firewood storage guide for more practical tips.

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Can Kiln-Dried Logs Get Wet?

You should protect your kiln-dried logs from rain and wet by storing them correctly. Kiln drying removes moisture from the wood, but it doesn’t make the logs waterproof. If logs are left uncovered in rain, or placed directly on damp ground, they can absorb moisture again. If kiln-dried logs get splashed, they may be able to dry out again if stored in a ventilated place. However, if they remain wet for long periods, they can become mouldy or harder to light. To prevent this:

• Store logs under cover
• Keep them off the floor
• Avoid water pooling around bags
• Do not leave bags exposed to heavy rain
• Allow airflow around the logs

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Can You Store Firewood In A Garage?

Yes, you can store firewood in a garage if it’s dry and has some ventilation. Garages are a good place to store kiln-dried logs because they protect firewood from rain. However, airflow is still important. Logs should not be sealed in damp corners or placed directly against wet walls. When storing firewood in a garage:

• Keep logs raised off the floor
• Avoid damp walls
• Allow air movement
• Do not cover tightly with plastic
• Check for signs of mould or moisture

If the garage is very damp, an outdoor covered log store with better airflow may be a better option. Discover more firewood storage tips in our blog.

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How Long Does Firewood Last?

Properly stored firewood can last for several years. Kiln-dried logs don’t expire in the same way as food, but they can lose quality if you store them in damp or poorly ventilated conditions. If kept dry and well ventilated, firewood should remain suitable for many years. To keep logs in good condition, store them correctly and use the oldest logs first.

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Part 5: Lighting Fires

What’s The Best Way To Light A Fire?

The best way to light a fire is using the ‘top-down’ method using dry logs, natural firelighters and good airflow. This method is cleaner and more efficient because the fire burns down gradually, warming the flue quickly and reducing smoke during ignition. For a wood burner, here’s how to set it up:

1. Place larger kiln-dried logs at the bottom
2. Add a KindleFlamer or natural firelighter on top
3. Add smaller logs or kindling above if needed
4. Light the firelighter
5. Keep vents open until the fire is established

Avoid using newspaper, damp kindling or wet logs, as these can create smoke and reduce fire efficiency. Read our guide to the best way to light a fire for a full step-by-step method.

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What’s The Top-Down Fire Method?

The top-down fire method is a firelighting technique where the fire is lit from the top rather than from underneath. In a top-down fire, larger logs sit at the base, while the firelighter and smaller kindling or starter fuel sit above. As the fire burns, it gradually ignites the logs below. Benefits of the top-down method include:

• Less smoke
• Faster flue warming
• Better airflow
• Cleaner ignition
• Less need to reopen the stove door
• More efficient early combustion

This method is particularly useful for modern wood-burning stoves because it helps create a cleaner start-up phase.

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What Are KindleFlamers?

KindleFlamers are natural firelighters designed to light fires without separate kindling. Larger than standard Flamers, they burn for long enough to ignite kiln dried logs directly. This makes them useful for wood burners, open fires, pizza ovens, firepits, BBQs and campfires.

KindleFlamers are helpful because they:

• Eliminate the need for kindling
• Simplify firelighting
• Burn for around 10–15 minutes
• Are odourless
• Work well with kiln-dried logs

Use KindleFlamers with dry hardwood logs for the easiest firelighting results. Explore KindleFlamers and read our firelighting guide for more tips. 

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Do You Need Kindling When Lighting A Fire?

You usually need kindling when using standard firelighters, but you may not need kindling when using KindleFlamers. Kindling helps bridge the gap between the small flame of a firelighter and the larger fuel load of logs. It catches quickly and helps establish the fire. Kindling is useful if:

• Logs are large
• Logs are dense, such as oak
• You’re using standard firelighters
• Your stove has slower airflow
• You’re lighting in a cold room

KindleFlamers are designed to remove the need for separate kindling in many situations because they burn longer and provide a sustained ignition source.

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Can You Use Firelighters On BBQs?

Yes, you can use natural firelighters on BBQs, provided they’re odourless and suitable for cooking environments. For BBQs, avoid firelighters with strong chemical smells, as these may affect the cooking experience. Natural firelighters are a good option because they’re easy to use and don’t taint food. 

Flamers and KindleFlamers can both be used for BBQ lighting. Read our outdoor cooking guide for more BBQ and pizza oven advice.

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Part 6: Quick Firewood Buying Guide Summary

What Should You Look For When Buying Firewood?

When buying firewood in the UK, look for dry, clean, untreated hardwood logs with a moisture content below 20%. For most homes, kiln-dried ‘Ready to Burn’ hardwood is the most reliable option because it offers consistent moisture levels, strong heat output and cleaner combustion.

The best firewood buying checklist is:

• Choose kiln-dried, ‘Ready to Burn’ logs
• Look for moisture content below 20%
• Select the right species for your use
• Check log size before ordering
• Understand loose-fill vs stacked volume
• Plan storage before delivery
• Order before peak winter demand
• Use natural firelighters and the top-down method

Buying firewood isn’t just about finding the cheapest logs. It’s about choosing fuel that burns efficiently, stores well and suits your appliance. Contact our customer service team if you need advice about anything before you buy. We’re always happy to help.