Is Elm Wood Good For Burning? (Firewood Facts & Tips)

The wind is howling outside, a sure sign that winter is just around the corner. And around here, that means one thing: it’s time to get serious about firewood. I can already smell the woodsmoke in the air, and the rhythmic thud of axes is becoming a familiar soundtrack. Over the years, I’ve burned just about every type of wood imaginable, from the classics like oak and maple to some of the more… challenging varieties. Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of questions about elm. Is it good for burning? Does it stack well? Does it even split well?

Well, let’s dive deep into the world of elm firewood, separating fact from fiction and giving you the straight goods based on my own experiences and a whole lot of research.

Is Elm Wood Good for Burning? (Firewood Facts & Tips)

Elm. It’s a wood that inspires a range of opinions, from ardent supporters to outright detractors. Some swear by it as a reliable heat source, while others curse its stringy texture and difficult splitting. So, what’s the real story?

Key Takeaways:

Identifying Elm: How to tell elm apart from other tree species.
Elm Firewood BTU: Understanding its heat output.
Seasoning Elm: The crucial steps to proper drying.
Splitting Elm: Techniques and tools to make it easier.
Burning Elm: Tips for a safe and efficient burn.
Elm Varieties: The differences between American, Red, and Slippery Elm.
Elm Firewood Pros and Cons: A balanced overview.
Elm vs. Other Firewood: How it stacks up against the competition.
Safety Precautions: Essential tips for handling and burning elm.

Identifying Elm Trees: Know Your Wood

Before you even think about splitting and burning elm, you need to be sure you’ve actually got elm. Misidentifying wood can lead to disappointment (or worse, a smoky and inefficient fire).

Here are a few key characteristics to look for:

Leaves: Elm leaves are typically oval-shaped with serrated edges and an asymmetrical base (one side is slightly larger than the other).
Bark: The bark is usually gray or brownish-gray and deeply furrowed, with interlacing ridges. It often has a distinctive “layered” appearance.
Shape: Elm trees typically have a vase-like or umbrella shape, with a broad, spreading crown.
Smell: Freshly cut elm has a somewhat sour or slightly unpleasant odor. This is a good indicator, though it’s not foolproof.

I remember one time, I was helping a friend fell some trees on his property. He was convinced he had a stand of oak, but after taking a closer look at the leaves and bark, I realized it was mostly elm. He was a bit disappointed (oak is definitely a better firewood choice), but at least he knew what he was dealing with.

Distinguishing Between Elm Species

It’s also important to know that there are several different species of elm, and their properties can vary slightly. The most common types you’ll encounter are:

American Elm (Ulmus americana): Once a majestic tree, American Elm has been decimated by Dutch Elm Disease. It has a relatively coarse texture and is known for being particularly difficult to split.
Red Elm/Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra): This species gets its name from the reddish inner bark. It’s generally considered to be a bit easier to split than American Elm and is less prone to stringiness. It also has a mucilaginous inner bark that was once used medicinally.
Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii): As the name suggests, Rock Elm is extremely hard and dense. It’s less common than American or Red Elm, but it’s known for its high heat output and relatively easy splitting.
Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila): This is a fast-growing, invasive species that’s often planted as a street tree. It’s generally considered to be a poor firewood choice, as it’s lightweight, burns quickly, and produces a lot of smoke.

Pro Tip: A good field guide to trees is an invaluable resource for accurate identification. Consider investing in one that’s specific to your region.

Elm Firewood BTU: Understanding Heat Output

BTU (British Thermal Unit) is the standard measurement of heat output for firewood. It tells you how much heat you can expect to get from a given amount of wood.

American Elm: Around 20.0 million BTU per cord
Red Elm/Slippery Elm: Around 20.7 million BTU per cord
Rock Elm: Around 26.4 million BTU per cord
Siberian Elm: Around 13.7 million BTU per cord

These numbers mean that elm provides a decent amount of heat, but it’s not quite as efficient as some of the higher-BTU hardwoods like oak, hickory, or maple.

Insight: While BTU is a useful metric, it’s not the only factor to consider. Density, seasoning, and burning habits all play a role in the overall heat output you’ll experience.

Seasoning Elm: The Crucial Steps to Proper Drying

Seasoning is absolutely critical for any firewood, but it’s especially important for elm. Freshly cut elm can have a moisture content of 50% or higher, which means it will be difficult to light, burn inefficiently, and produce a lot of smoke.

The goal of seasoning is to reduce the moisture content to around 20% or less. This allows the wood to burn hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

Here’s my step-by-step guide to seasoning elm:

Split the Wood: This is the most important step. Splitting the wood exposes more surface area to the air, which speeds up the drying process.
Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation. I use pallets to keep the wood off the ground and stack the rows so the prevailing winds can blow through them.
Location: Choose a sunny, windy location. Sunlight helps to evaporate moisture, and wind helps to carry it away.
Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or piece of plywood to protect it from rain and snow. This prevents the wood from reabsorbing moisture. Make sure the sides of the stack remain uncovered to allow for airflow.
Wait: Elm typically needs to season for at least 12-18 months, and even longer in humid climates.

Expert Tip: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood before burning it. You can find these at most hardware stores. Aim for a reading of 20% or less.

Signs of Properly Seasoned Elm

Cracks: Look for cracks on the ends of the wood. These indicate that the wood has dried out and shrunk.
Weight: Seasoned wood will be noticeably lighter than green wood.
Sound: When you bang two pieces of seasoned wood together, they should make a hollow sound.
Color: Seasoned wood will often have a grayish or weathered appearance.

Personal Story: I once tried to burn some elm that I thought was seasoned, but it turned out it wasn’t quite dry enough. The fire was smoky and sluggish, and it took forever to get any real heat.

Splitting Elm: Techniques and Tools to Make it Easier

Ah, splitting elm. This is where many people run into trouble. Elm is notorious for its stringy, interlocked grain, which makes it resistant to splitting. But don’t despair! With the right techniques and tools, you can make the job much easier.

Tools for Splitting Elm

Maul: A heavy maul (6-8 pounds) is essential for splitting elm. The weight of the maul provides the force needed to overcome the wood’s resistance.
Splitting Axe: A splitting axe has a wider head than a regular axe, which helps to force the wood apart.
Wedges: Steel wedges can be driven into stubborn rounds to help split them.
Sledgehammer: A sledgehammer can be used to drive wedges.
Hydraulic Log Splitter: If you’re dealing with a lot of elm, a hydraulic log splitter is a worthwhile investment. These machines can make splitting even the toughest rounds a breeze. I personally use a 25-ton splitter and it handles elm without any issues.
Kindling Axe: A small axe for making kindling.

Techniques for Splitting Elm

Start with Smaller Rounds: If possible, choose smaller rounds to split. These will be easier to handle and less resistant to splitting.
Look for Cracks: Try to split the wood along existing cracks or checks. These are natural weak points that will make the job easier.
Aim for the Edges: Instead of trying to split the wood right down the middle, try aiming for the edges. This can sometimes be more effective.
Use a Wedge: If you encounter a particularly stubborn round, drive a wedge into it with a sledgehammer. This will help to force the wood apart.
Work with the Grain: Pay attention to the grain of the wood and try to split it along the grain lines.
Sharp Tools: Keep your tools sharp. A dull axe or maul will only make the job harder.
The “Elm Splitter”: This is a technique I developed over the years. Instead of trying to split the elm in half in one go, I aim for the edge, creating a “pie slice” cut. I repeat this around the circumference, gradually removing pieces until the core is small enough to split easily. This takes longer, but it’s far less strenuous.

Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood. And be sure to position yourself so that you’re not in the path of the axe or maul.

These machines use hydraulic pressure to force a wedge through the wood, making even the toughest rounds relatively easy to split.

Here are a few tips for using a log splitter to split elm:

Choose the Right Splitter: Make sure you have a splitter that’s powerful enough to handle elm. A 20-ton or larger splitter is recommended.
Position the Round: Position the round on the splitter so that the wedge is aligned with the grain of the wood.
Apply Consistent Pressure: Apply consistent pressure to the round until it splits.
Use a Wedge: If the round is particularly stubborn, use a wedge to help start the split.
Be Patient: Don’t try to force the splitter. If the round won’t split easily, reposition it or use a wedge.

Case Study: A local firewood producer I know switched to using a hydraulic log splitter a few years ago, and he says it’s made a huge difference in his productivity. He can now split elm much faster and with less effort, which has allowed him to increase his output and profitability. He mentions that elm used to be a wood he avoided, but now it’s just another log to process.

Burning Elm: Tips for a Safe and Efficient Burn

Once you’ve seasoned and split your elm, it’s time to burn it! Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your elm firewood:

Start with a Hot Fire: Elm can be a bit slow to ignite, so it’s important to start with a hot fire. Use plenty of kindling and tinder to get the fire going.
Burn in a Well-Ventilated Fireplace or Stove: Elm can produce a fair amount of smoke, especially if it’s not fully seasoned. Make sure your fireplace or stove is well-ventilated to prevent smoke from building up in your home.
Don’t Overload the Firebox: Overloading the firebox can restrict airflow and lead to a smoky fire.
Maintain a Good Airflow: Keep the air vents open to ensure that the fire gets enough oxygen.
Clean Your Chimney Regularly: Elm can produce creosote, a flammable substance that can build up in your chimney. It’s important to clean your chimney regularly to prevent chimney fires.

Important Note: Never burn unseasoned wood in an enclosed space. This can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which is a serious health hazard.

Elm Varieties: Understanding the Differences

As mentioned earlier, there are several different species of elm, and their burning characteristics can vary. Here’s a closer look at the most common types:

American Elm (Ulmus americana): As mentioned, American Elm is known for being particularly difficult to split. It also tends to be more prone to stringiness than other elm species. However, it does burn with a decent heat output and can be a reliable firewood choice if properly seasoned.
Red Elm/Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra): Red Elm is generally considered to be a bit easier to split than American Elm. It also has a slightly higher BTU rating. The inner bark has a slippery, mucilaginous texture, hence the name “Slippery Elm.”
Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii): Rock Elm is the heavyweight champion of the elm family. It’s extremely hard and dense, and it burns with a high heat output. It’s also relatively easy to split, compared to other elm species.
Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila): Siberian Elm is the runt of the litter. It’s lightweight, burns quickly, and produces a lot of smoke. It’s generally not a good firewood choice.

Recommendation: If you have a choice, opt for Rock Elm or Red Elm. These species are generally easier to work with and provide better heat output than American or Siberian Elm.

Elm Firewood Pros and Cons: A Balanced Overview

Let’s take a look at the overall pros and cons of using elm as firewood:

Pros:

Moderate Heat Output: Elm provides a decent amount of heat, comparable to other hardwoods like ash or soft maple.
Readily Available: Elm is a relatively common tree species, so it’s often easy to find.
Burns for a Moderate Amount of Time: It doesn’t burn as quickly as some of the softer woods, but it doesn’t last as long as the denser hardwoods like oak or hickory.

Cons:

Difficult to Split: This is the biggest drawback of elm. Its stringy, interlocked grain makes it notoriously difficult to split, especially if you’re dealing with larger rounds.
Can Be Smoky: Elm can produce a fair amount of smoke, especially if it’s not fully seasoned.
Prone to Dutch Elm Disease: Dutch Elm Disease has decimated elm populations in many areas, which means that you may be dealing with diseased or decaying wood.

My Verdict: Elm is a decent firewood choice if you’re willing to put in the extra effort to split and season it properly. However, if you have access to other, easier-to-work-with hardwoods, they may be a better option.

Elm vs. Other Firewood: How It Stacks Up

Let’s see how elm compares to some other common firewood choices:

Oak: Oak is the gold standard of firewood. It burns hot, long, and clean. However, it can be expensive and difficult to season. Elm is a decent alternative if you can’t get your hands on oak.
Maple: Maple is another good firewood choice. It’s easier to split than elm and burns with a similar heat output.
Ash: Ash is a great firewood choice that is easy to split and seasons quickly. It burns hot and clean.
Birch: Birch is a good firewood choice, but it burns relatively quickly. Elm is a better option if you’re looking for a longer-lasting fire.
Pine: Pine is a softwood that burns quickly and produces a lot of smoke. It’s generally not a good firewood choice, except for kindling. Elm is a much better option for sustained heat.

Data Point: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, oak has a BTU rating of around 28 million BTU per cord, while elm has a BTU rating of around 20 million BTU per cord. This means that oak provides about 40% more heat than elm.

Safety Precautions: Essential Tips for Handling and Burning Elm

Safety should always be your top priority when handling and burning firewood. Here are a few essential safety tips to keep in mind:

Wear Safety Glasses and Gloves: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood to protect your eyes and hands from injury.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid back injuries.
Stack Wood Safely: Stack wood in a stable manner to prevent it from falling over.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
Install Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Clean Your Chimney Regularly: As mentioned earlier, it’s important to clean your chimney regularly to prevent chimney fires.
Never Leave a Fire Unattended: Never leave a fire unattended, especially when burning elm, which can be prone to sparking.

Real-World Example: A friend of mine had a chimney fire a few years ago because he hadn’t cleaned his chimney in a while. Fortunately, he was able to extinguish the fire before it caused any serious damage. But it was a close call, and it served as a reminder of the importance of chimney maintenance.

Conclusion: Is Elm Firewood Right for You?

So, is elm wood good for burning? The answer, as with most things, is “it depends.” Elm can be a decent firewood choice, but it’s not without its challenges. It’s notoriously difficult to split, can be smoky if not properly seasoned, and doesn’t provide as much heat as some of the higher-BTU hardwoods.

However, if you’re willing to put in the extra effort to split and season it properly, elm can be a reliable and readily available heat source. And if you have access to Rock Elm, you’re in luck – it’s one of the best elm species for firewood.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to burn elm is a personal one. Consider your own needs, resources, and preferences, and make the choice that’s right for you.

Actionable Next Steps:

Identify Elm Trees: Learn to identify elm trees in your area.
Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you need and what your budget is.
Gather the Right Tools: Invest in the necessary tools for splitting and handling elm.
Start Seasoning: Start seasoning your elm firewood well in advance of burning season.
Burn Safely: Follow all safety precautions when burning elm.

Happy burning, and stay warm!

Is Elm Wood Good for Burning? (Firewood Facts & Tips)

Is Elm Wood Good for Burning? (Firewood Facts & Tips)