Burning Ash Firewood Benefits (5 Expert Tips for Instant Use)
Are you looking to maximize the heat and enjoyment from your fireplace this winter while also saving some green? Let’s delve into the world of ash firewood – a fantastic fuel source with surprising benefits. I’ll share my expert tips and cost-saving strategies to ensure you get the most bang for your buck, whether you’re a seasoned woodsman or a first-time firewood buyer.
The Allure of Ash: Why Choose Ash Firewood?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of costs, let’s appreciate why ash is so highly regarded. Unlike some woods that are notorious for sparking or producing excessive smoke, ash burns cleanly and efficiently.
- High Heat Output: Ash boasts a high BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, typically around 20 million BTUs per cord. This means you get a significant amount of heat for every piece you burn. It is comparable to oak and higher than softer woods like pine or poplar.
- Easy to Split: Ash has a straight grain, which makes it a dream to split, even with just an axe. This saves you time and energy, whether you’re splitting by hand or using a powered splitter.
- Low Smoke Production: Properly seasoned ash burns with minimal smoke, reducing creosote buildup in your chimney and improving indoor air quality.
- Quick Seasoning Time: Compared to denser hardwoods like oak, ash seasons relatively quickly, usually within 6-12 months, depending on your climate and storage conditions.
- Pleasant Aroma: Many people appreciate the mild, pleasant aroma that ash emits when burned.
- Burns Even When “Green”: While seasoned ash is always preferable, it is one of the few hardwoods that will burn reasonably well even when freshly cut (“green”). This is a huge advantage if you find yourself in a pinch.
5 Expert Tips for Instant Ash Firewood Use
Okay, so you’ve got your hands on some ash. How do you make the most of it right away? Here are my tried-and-true tips:
- Prioritize Seasoning, Even for “Green” Ash: While ash can burn green, it will burn far more efficiently and cleanly when seasoned. Even a few weeks of drying can make a noticeable difference. Stack your wood off the ground, in a sunny, windy location. Allow for air circulation.
- Split it Right: Aim for pieces that are roughly 6 inches in diameter. This size burns well in most fireplaces and wood stoves. Smaller pieces will burn too quickly, while larger pieces may smolder.
- Start with Kindling: Don’t underestimate the importance of good kindling. Use small, dry twigs and branches to get your fire going. Add slightly larger pieces of softwood (like pine) before introducing the ash.
- Control Airflow: Adjust the air vents on your fireplace or wood stove to control the rate of combustion. More airflow means a hotter, faster-burning fire. Less airflow means a slower, longer-lasting burn.
- Burn Hot, Not Slow: While it might be tempting to damp down the fire for overnight burning, it’s generally better to burn ash hot and clean. This minimizes creosote buildup and maximizes heat output. A hot fire also helps to burn off any residual moisture in the wood.
The Real Cost of Burning Ash Firewood: A Detailed Breakdown
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks: the cost of ash firewood. This is where things can get tricky, as prices vary widely depending on your location, the time of year, the supplier, and the form in which you buy it (e.g., logs, rounds, split and seasoned). I’ll break down the costs into several key categories.
1. Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs
- Purchasing Logs: If you’re buying ash logs directly from a logger or timber yard, the price will typically be quoted per board foot (BF) or per thousand board feet (MBF). Ash timber prices fluctuate based on market demand, but you can generally expect to pay between \$2.00 and \$4.00 per BF for high-quality ash. In my experience, you can sometimes negotiate a better price if you buy in bulk.
- Data Point: According to recent reports from the USDA Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid to the landowner for standing timber) for ash in the Northeast United States ranges from \$150 to \$300 per MBF. This is just the starting point, as it doesn’t include logging, transportation, or processing costs.
- Harvesting Your Own: If you have access to ash trees on your own property or through a permit, your costs will be primarily related to equipment and labor.
- Chainsaw Costs: A good quality chainsaw can cost anywhere from \$300 to \$1,000 or more, depending on the size and features. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of fuel, oil, chains, and maintenance. I personally use a Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss, which I find to be a reliable and versatile saw for felling and bucking ash.
- Safety Gear: Safety is paramount. Invest in a helmet, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, and chaps. These items can cost between \$100 and \$300.
- Permits: Depending on your location, you may need a permit to harvest timber, even on your own property. Check with your local forestry department or natural resources agency. Permit fees can range from \$25 to \$100 or more.
- Transportation: You’ll need a way to transport the logs from the woods to your home. A pickup truck, trailer, or tractor can all be used. Factor in the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance.
- Labor: If you’re hiring a logging crew to fell and buck the trees, you can expect to pay between \$50 and \$100 per hour.
2. Processing Costs: Splitting and Stacking
- Manual Splitting: If you’re splitting by hand, the only cost is your time and energy. A good splitting axe can cost between \$50 and \$150. I’ve found that a maul is helpful for splitting larger rounds.
- Powered Splitter: A gas-powered log splitter can cost anywhere from \$1,000 to \$3,000 or more, depending on the size and power. Electric splitters are also available, but they typically have less power.
- Rental Fees: If you don’t want to buy a splitter, you can often rent one from a local equipment rental company. Rental fees typically range from \$50 to \$100 per day.
- Fuel/Electricity: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of fuel for a gas-powered splitter or electricity for an electric splitter.
- Stacking: Stacking firewood is typically done by hand, so the cost is primarily your time. However, you may want to invest in some pallets or wood racks to keep the wood off the ground and promote air circulation.
3. Seasoning Costs: Time and Storage
- Time: Seasoning firewood takes time, typically 6-12 months for ash. There’s no direct cost associated with this, but it’s important to plan ahead.
- Storage: You’ll need a place to store your firewood while it seasons. A simple woodpile covered with a tarp is sufficient, but you can also build a more elaborate woodshed. The cost of a woodshed can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size and materials.
4. Delivery Costs (If Applicable)
- Delivery Fees: If you’re buying firewood from a supplier, they will typically charge a delivery fee. This fee can range from \$50 to \$150 or more, depending on the distance.
- Self-Delivery: If you’re hauling the firewood yourself, factor in the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance.
5. Permits and Fees
- Firewood Permits: Some states or municipalities require permits to burn firewood, especially during certain times of the year. Check with your local authorities.
- Campground Fees: If you’re burning firewood at a campground, you may have to pay a fee.
6. Equipment Maintenance
- Chainsaw Maintenance: Regular chainsaw maintenance is essential for safety and performance. This includes sharpening the chain, cleaning the air filter, and changing the oil. The cost of chainsaw maintenance can range from \$50 to \$100 per year.
- Log Splitter Maintenance: Log splitters also require regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and greasing the moving parts. The cost of log splitter maintenance can range from \$25 to \$50 per year.
7. The Cost of Your Time
- Hourly Rate: Don’t forget to factor in the value of your own time. If you’re spending hours felling, bucking, splitting, and stacking firewood, that time has a value. Consider what you could be earning if you were working at your regular job.
- Opportunity Cost: Also consider the opportunity cost of your time. What other activities could you be doing if you weren’t processing firewood?
Quantifying the Costs: Real-World Examples and Data
To illustrate the cost of ash firewood, let’s look at some real-world examples. These are based on my own experiences and research, but your actual costs may vary.
Scenario 1: Harvesting Your Own Ash (Small Scale)
- Assumptions: You have access to ash trees on your property. You’re using a chainsaw and splitting axe. You’re processing 5 cords of firewood.
- Costs:
- Chainsaw Fuel and Oil: \$50
- Chainsaw Chain: \$30
- Safety Gear (amortized over 5 years): \$20
- Axe: \$75 (amortized over 10 years): \$7.5
- Your Time (50 hours at \$20/hour): \$1,000
- Total Cost: \$1,107.50
- Cost per Cord: \$221.50
Scenario 2: Buying Split and Seasoned Ash (Delivered)
- Assumptions: You’re buying 5 cords of split and seasoned ash from a local supplier.
- Costs:
- Price per Cord: \$350
- Delivery Fee: \$100
- Total Cost: \$1,850
- Cost per Cord: \$370
Scenario 3: Buying Ash Logs and Splitting Yourself
- Assumptions: You’re buying 5 cords of ash logs from a logger. You’re renting a log splitter.
- Costs:
- Price per Cord of Logs: \$200
- Log Splitter Rental (3 days at \$75/day): \$225
- Fuel for Log Splitter: \$30
- Your Time (20 hours at \$20/hour): \$400
- Total Cost: \$1,655
- Cost per Cord: \$331
Data Insights and Benchmarks:
- Average Price per Cord: According to a survey of firewood suppliers across the United States, the average price for a cord of seasoned hardwood (including ash) ranges from \$250 to \$500, depending on location and quality.
- Regional Variations: Firewood prices tend to be higher in urban areas and in regions with limited wood resources. In rural areas with abundant forests, prices are typically lower.
- Seasonal Fluctuations: Firewood prices are typically highest in the fall and winter, when demand is highest. You can often save money by buying firewood in the spring or summer.
- The Impact of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): The Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive insect that kills ash trees, has had a significant impact on ash firewood prices in some areas. In areas with widespread EAB infestations, the supply of ash firewood may be higher, leading to lower prices. However, this is a temporary effect, as the ash trees eventually die and become unusable.
Strategies for Optimizing Costs and Maximizing Value
Now that we’ve broken down the costs of ash firewood, let’s look at some strategies for optimizing your budget and getting the most value for your money.
- Buy in Bulk: Buying firewood in larger quantities can often save you money. Many suppliers offer discounts for bulk purchases.
- Buy Off-Season: As mentioned earlier, firewood prices are typically lower in the spring and summer. If you have the storage space, buying off-season can save you a significant amount of money.
- Consider Green Wood: Green wood is cheaper than seasoned wood, but you’ll need to season it yourself. This requires time and effort, but it can be a cost-effective option if you have the resources.
- Negotiate with Suppliers: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with firewood suppliers. You may be able to get a better price if you’re willing to pay in cash or if you’re buying a large quantity.
- Harvest Your Own (If Possible): If you have access to ash trees on your property or through a permit, harvesting your own firewood can be the cheapest option. However, it requires time, effort, and the right equipment.
- Rent Equipment: If you don’t want to invest in expensive equipment like a log splitter, consider renting it instead.
- Improve Your Seasoning Process: Proper seasoning is essential for maximizing the heat output and minimizing the smoke production of your firewood. Make sure you’re stacking your wood in a sunny, windy location and allowing for good air circulation.
- Burn Efficiently: Learn how to burn your firewood efficiently. Control the airflow in your fireplace or wood stove, and don’t burn more wood than you need.
- Consider Alternative Fuel Sources: If ash firewood is too expensive in your area, consider alternative fuel sources like wood pellets or biofuel.
- Utilize Waste Wood: In my own woodworking projects, I’m always looking for ways to use waste wood scraps as kindling or for small fires. This helps reduce waste and saves money on purchased firewood.
- Embrace Community Resources: Check for local community firewood programs or co-ops. These initiatives can provide access to affordable firewood for those in need.
Calculating Volume: From Logs to Cords
Understanding how to calculate the volume of wood is crucial for both buying and selling firewood. Here’s a quick primer:
- Board Foot (BF): A board foot is a unit of measurement for lumber that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long.
- Cord: A cord is a unit of measurement for firewood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, or 128 cubic feet.
- Calculating Board Feet in a Log: There are several formulas for estimating the board feet in a log, but one common formula is the Doyle Log Scale:
BF = (Diameter - 4)^2 * Length / 16(where diameter is in inches and length is in feet). - Converting Board Feet to Cords: The conversion factor between board feet and cords varies depending on the species of wood and the tightness of the stacking, but a general rule of thumb is that 500 board feet of hardwood will yield approximately one cord of firewood.
Example:
Let’s say you have an ash log that is 12 inches in diameter and 10 feet long. Using the Doyle Log Scale, you can estimate the board feet as follows:
BF = (12 - 4)^2 * 10 / 16 = 40 board feet
If you have 12.5 logs of this size, you’ll have approximately 500 board feet, which is roughly equivalent to one cord of firewood.
The Future of Ash Firewood: Challenges and Opportunities
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) poses a significant threat to ash trees across North America and Europe. This invasive insect has already killed millions of ash trees, and it is expected to continue to spread. The EAB infestation has created both challenges and opportunities for the firewood market.
- Challenges: The loss of ash trees can reduce the supply of ash firewood in some areas, leading to higher prices. It can also disrupt local ecosystems and impact wildlife that depend on ash trees for food and habitat.
- Opportunities: The EAB infestation has created a temporary surplus of ash firewood in some areas, as landowners are forced to remove dead and dying trees. This can lead to lower prices for ash firewood in the short term. Additionally, the EAB infestation has spurred research into new methods of managing and controlling the insect, which could help to protect ash trees in the future.
Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps
Burning ash firewood can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to heat your home, but it’s important to understand the costs involved and to plan accordingly. Here are some actionable takeaways and next steps:
- Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you’ll need for the winter.
- Research Local Prices: Contact local firewood suppliers and compare prices.
- Consider Your Options: Decide whether you want to buy split and seasoned wood, buy logs and split them yourself, or harvest your own wood.
- Create a Budget: Develop a detailed budget that includes all of the costs associated with acquiring and processing firewood.
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to buy or harvest firewood. Start early to ensure that you have plenty of time to season it properly.
- Be Safe: Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaws, log splitters, and other equipment.
- Enjoy the Warmth: Once you’ve got your firewood supply secured, relax and enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire!
Final Thoughts: The Enduring Appeal of Ash Firewood
Despite the challenges posed by the Emerald Ash Borer, ash firewood remains a valuable and desirable fuel source. Its high heat output, easy splitting, and clean burning properties make it a favorite among homeowners and wood-burning enthusiasts. By understanding the costs involved and implementing cost-saving strategies, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of ash firewood without breaking the bank. Remember to always prioritize safety, burn responsibly, and appreciate the natural beauty and value of this remarkable resource. From my years of experience, I’ve learned that the satisfaction of a well-managed firewood supply, coupled with the warmth of a crackling fire on a cold winter’s night, is truly priceless. So, go ahead, embrace the allure of ash, and make the most of your wood-burning experience!
