SBN · Understanding and comparing stone

Kiln-dried firewood: why residual moisture matters

Dry firewood is easier to light and use efficiently. Drying, storage and correct stove operation all matter.

Controlled drying

Split logs are placed in a drying chamber or suitable container. Warm moving air removes moisture under controlled conditions. Duration depends on wood species, log size and initial moisture. Properly air-dried wood can be equally suitable at comparable moisture.

Kiln-dried firewood: why residual moisture matters · 1

Moisture and combustion

Water in the wood must evaporate, consuming energy that would otherwise provide useful heat. Wood moisture and water content are different measurements. Follow your meter and stove instructions and measure freshly split inner faces of several logs. Drier is not automatically better: use fuel suitable for the appliance. Dry untreated wood, adequate air and correct loading reduce unnecessary smoke. Wood smoke still contains fine particles and harmful substances even when scarcely visible.

Storage and the SBN selection

Protect logs from rain and ground moisture, store on a dry base and keep air circulating. Cover the top outdoors without sealing the sides. SBN offers kiln-dried beech and oak with the stated residual moisture below 15%: 25 cm beech, or 33 cm beech or oak. Loose and packaged options include a 2.7 SRM crate for both lengths. Current variants and prices are on the product page. Confirm access, unloading and delivery costs for your destination.