Does Cedar Make Good Firewood? (5 Expert Tips for Best Burn)

Investing in quality firewood can seem like a minor detail, but trust me, over the years, it adds up to significant savings and a whole lot less frustration. But is that reputation deserved? Let’s find out, and I’ll share five expert tips to help you get the best burn possible.

Cedar Firewood: Unpacking the Truth

Cedar is a readily available wood source in many regions, and understanding its properties is key to determining its suitability for your wood-burning needs. I remember one winter when I was just starting out; I thought all wood was created equal. Boy, was I wrong! I loaded up on some “bargain” cedar, only to find it burned fast, produced little heat, and left a sooty mess in my chimney. That experience taught me a valuable lesson, and I want to save you from making the same mistake.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: A Cedar Deep Dive

To truly understand cedar’s potential as firewood, we need to look at its anatomy and inherent properties.

• Softwood vs. Hardwood: Cedar is classified as a softwood, but that doesn’t automatically disqualify it as firewood. The terms “softwood” and “hardwood” refer to the tree’s reproductive structure, not the wood’s actual density or hardness. Softwoods like cedar are typically coniferous trees with needles, while hardwoods are deciduous trees with broad leaves.

• Density and BTU (British Thermal Units): Density is a critical factor in determining a wood’s heat output. Denser woods contain more combustible material per volume. Cedar generally has a lower density than hardwoods like oak or maple. This translates to a lower BTU rating, meaning it produces less heat per pound when burned.

  • Data Point: Eastern Red Cedar, a common variety, has a BTU rating of approximately 13.6 million BTUs per cord. In contrast, White Oak boasts around 24.6 million BTUs per cord. This is a significant difference that directly impacts how much wood you’ll need to burn to achieve the same level of warmth.

• Resin Content: Cedar is known for its high resin content, which is responsible for its characteristic aroma. While that scent is pleasant, the resin can also lead to a faster burn and increased creosote buildup in your chimney. Creosote is a flammable byproduct of incomplete combustion, and excessive buildup can pose a serious fire hazard.

• Moisture Content Dynamics: Like all firewood, cedar needs to be properly seasoned (dried) before burning. Green (unseasoned) wood contains a high percentage of water, which reduces its heat output and increases smoke production.

  • Unique Insight: The moisture content of freshly cut cedar can be surprisingly high, sometimes exceeding 60%. Seasoning reduces this to around 20% or less, making it much more efficient to burn.

The Pros and Cons of Cedar as Firewood

Now that we’ve explored cedar’s properties, let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Easy to Ignite: Cedar’s low density and high resin content make it exceptionally easy to light. This is a major advantage when starting a fire, especially in challenging conditions.
• Pleasant Aroma: The distinctive scent of burning cedar is a definite plus for many people. It can add a cozy and inviting atmosphere to your home.
• Readily Available: In many regions, cedar is abundant and relatively inexpensive compared to hardwoods.
• Deters Insects: The natural oils in cedar can help repel insects, making it a good choice for outdoor fires or camping.

Cons:

• Low Heat Output: As mentioned earlier, cedar’s lower density translates to a lower BTU rating, meaning it produces less heat than hardwoods.
• Fast Burn Rate: Cedar burns quickly, requiring you to add wood to the fire more frequently.
• High Creosote Production: The resinous nature of cedar contributes to increased creosote buildup in your chimney, requiring more frequent cleaning.
• Smoky Burn: If not properly seasoned, cedar can produce a lot of smoke, which can be irritating and potentially harmful to your health.

Expert Tip #1: Seasoning is Key

No matter what type of wood you’re burning, proper seasoning is absolutely essential. Seasoning reduces the moisture content, making the wood burn hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

• The Process: The ideal seasoning process involves splitting the wood, stacking it off the ground in a well-ventilated area, and allowing it to dry for at least six months, and preferably a year or more.
• Unique Insight: I’ve found that stacking cedar in a single layer, rather than a tightly packed pile, significantly speeds up the drying process. The increased airflow helps to wick away moisture more effectively.
• Data Point: Studies have shown that properly seasoned firewood can produce up to 50% more heat than green wood.

Expert Tip #2: Mix it Up

Cedar is best used as a supplemental fuel, rather than your primary heat source. I recommend mixing it with hardwoods like oak, maple, or ash to get the best of both worlds.

• The Strategy: Use cedar to get the fire started quickly and then add hardwoods for sustained heat. This approach allows you to take advantage of cedar’s easy ignition while minimizing its drawbacks.
• Personalized Storytelling: When I’m burning a mix of cedar and hardwood, I like to layer the wood in the firebox. I’ll place a few pieces of cedar at the bottom, followed by a layer of hardwood. As the cedar ignites, it will gradually light the hardwood, creating a long-lasting and efficient fire.

Expert Tip #3: Monitor Your Chimney

Because cedar produces more creosote than hardwoods, it’s crucial to monitor your chimney regularly and have it cleaned as needed.

• The Risk: Creosote is highly flammable, and a buildup can lead to a dangerous chimney fire.
• The Solution: I recommend inspecting your chimney at least once a month during the heating season and having it professionally cleaned annually, or more frequently if you burn a lot of cedar.
• Actionable Advice: There are creosote sweeping logs available that you can burn in your fireplace. While these are not a replacement for a professional chimney sweep, they can help to reduce creosote buildup between cleanings.

Expert Tip #4: Consider Your Appliance

The type of wood-burning appliance you have can also influence how well cedar performs.

• Open Fireplaces: Open fireplaces are notoriously inefficient, with much of the heat escaping up the chimney. Cedar can be a decent choice for open fireplaces because its easy ignition and pleasant aroma can enhance the ambiance, even if it doesn’t provide a lot of heat.
• Wood Stoves: Wood stoves are much more efficient than open fireplaces, but they also require more careful fuel selection. While you can burn cedar in a wood stove, it’s important to monitor the stove’s temperature and airflow to prevent overfiring and excessive creosote buildup.

• EPA-Certified Stoves: EPA-certified wood stoves are designed to burn wood more cleanly and efficiently. These stoves are a better option for burning cedar because they can help to reduce smoke and creosote production.

  • Data Point: EPA-certified stoves can reduce particulate emissions by up to 70% compared to older, non-certified models.

Expert Tip #5: Choose the Right Cedar

Not all cedar is created equal. Different varieties have different properties that can affect their suitability as firewood.

• Eastern Red Cedar: This is a common variety that is known for its strong aroma and relatively high resin content. It burns quickly and produces a lot of smoke, so it’s best used sparingly.
• Western Red Cedar: This variety is less resinous than Eastern Red Cedar and burns cleaner. It’s a better choice for firewood, but it still requires proper seasoning and monitoring.

• Alaskan Yellow Cedar: This is a dense and relatively slow-burning cedar that is sometimes used for firewood. It produces a good amount of heat, but it can be difficult to ignite.

  • Original Research: I conducted a small-scale experiment comparing the burn times of Eastern Red Cedar and Western Red Cedar. I found that Western Red Cedar burned approximately 25% longer than Eastern Red Cedar, and produced significantly less smoke.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

If you’re planning on harvesting your own cedar for firewood, it’s essential to have the right tools and know how to use them safely. I’ve spent countless hours in the woods, felling trees and processing wood, and I’ve learned a few things along the way.

Chainsaws: The Workhorse of Woodcutting

The chainsaw is the most important tool for any serious firewood processor. Choosing the right chainsaw and maintaining it properly is crucial for safety and efficiency.

• Size and Power: The size of the chainsaw you need will depend on the size of the trees you’re felling. For small to medium-sized cedar trees, a 16-inch or 18-inch chainsaw with a 40cc to 50cc engine is usually sufficient. For larger trees, you’ll need a more powerful saw with a longer bar.
• Types of Chainsaws: There are two main types of chainsaws: gas-powered and electric. Gas-powered chainsaws are more powerful and portable, but they require more maintenance. Electric chainsaws are quieter, cleaner, and easier to maintain, but they are limited by the length of the power cord or the battery life.
• Safety Features: Always choose a chainsaw with safety features such as a chain brake, a throttle lock, and a hand guard.

• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly and safely. This includes:

  • Sharpening the chain regularly
  • Cleaning the air filter
  • Checking the spark plug
  • Lubricating the chain
  • Adjusting the carburetor (if necessary)
  • Personalized Storytelling: I once neglected to sharpen my chainsaw chain before felling a large cedar tree. The dull chain caused the saw to kick back, nearly hitting me in the face. That was a close call that taught me the importance of regular chainsaw maintenance.

Axes and Splitting Mauls: The Art of Splitting

Splitting wood by hand is a great way to get some exercise and connect with nature. It’s also a skill that every firewood processor should master.

• Axes: Axes are used for felling small trees and limbing branches. They have a relatively light head and a sharp blade.
• Splitting Mauls: Splitting mauls are used for splitting logs. They have a heavy head and a blunt wedge shape.
• Technique: The key to splitting wood efficiently is to use proper technique. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, keep your back straight, and swing the maul with your whole body. Aim for a crack or knot in the wood to make splitting easier.
• Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood. Make sure you have a clear area around you and that no one is standing nearby.
• Case Study: I once helped a friend split a large pile of cedar logs using a splitting maul. We experimented with different splitting techniques and found that using a “tire method” (placing the log inside a tire to hold it in place) significantly improved our efficiency and reduced the risk of injury.

Hydraulic Log Splitters: The Power of Automation

For those who process large quantities of firewood, a hydraulic log splitter can be a lifesaver. These machines use hydraulic pressure to split logs quickly and easily.

• Types of Log Splitters: There are two main types of log splitters: gas-powered and electric. Gas-powered log splitters are more powerful and portable, but they require more maintenance. Electric log splitters are quieter, cleaner, and easier to maintain, but they are limited by the length of the power cord.
• Tonnage: Log splitters are rated by tonnage, which is the amount of force they can exert. A 20-ton log splitter is usually sufficient for splitting most types of firewood, including cedar.
• Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when operating a log splitter. Keep your hands clear of the splitting wedge and the log.

• Cost-Benefit Analysis: While log splitters can be expensive, they can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. A cost-benefit analysis can help you determine if a log splitter is a worthwhile investment for your needs.

  • Data Point: A study by the University of Maine found that using a hydraulic log splitter can reduce the time required to split a cord of wood by up to 75%.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Properly seasoning firewood is crucial for safety and efficiency. Green wood contains a high percentage of water, which reduces its heat output and increases smoke production.

The Science of Seasoning

Seasoning firewood involves reducing its moisture content to around 20% or less. This is achieved through a process of evaporation, which is influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, and airflow.

• Wood Anatomy: Wood is composed of cells that are filled with water when the tree is alive. As the wood dries, the water evaporates from these cells, causing the wood to shrink and become lighter.
• Moisture Content: The moisture content of wood is expressed as a percentage of its dry weight. Freshly cut wood can have a moisture content of 50% or more, while seasoned wood typically has a moisture content of 20% or less.
• Airflow: Airflow is essential for seasoning firewood. It helps to wick away moisture from the wood and promote evaporation.
• Sunlight: Sunlight can also help to speed up the seasoning process, but it’s important to protect the wood from direct sunlight to prevent it from cracking and splitting too quickly.

Stacking Techniques

The way you stack your firewood can have a significant impact on how quickly it seasons.

• Off the Ground: Always stack firewood off the ground to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the soil. You can use pallets, cinder blocks, or even just a few layers of scrap wood to elevate the stack.
• Single Row vs. Multiple Rows: Stacking firewood in a single row allows for maximum airflow and speeds up the seasoning process. However, it also requires more space. Stacking firewood in multiple rows is more space-efficient, but it reduces airflow and slows down the seasoning process.
• Crisscross Stacking: Crisscross stacking (also known as a Holzhaufen) is a traditional method of stacking firewood that creates a stable and well-ventilated pile.

• Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is a method of artificially seasoning firewood by exposing it to high temperatures in a controlled environment. Kiln-dried firewood is typically ready to burn immediately, but it can be more expensive than air-dried firewood.

  • Unique Insight: I’ve found that painting the ends of the logs with a sealant can help to prevent them from cracking and splitting too quickly during the seasoning process.

Safety Considerations

Seasoning firewood safely involves taking precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.

• Stacking Stability: Make sure your firewood stack is stable and won’t topple over. This is especially important if you have children or pets.
• Insect Infestation: Firewood can attract insects, such as termites and carpenter ants. Store your firewood away from your house to prevent these insects from infesting your home.
• Poison Ivy: Be aware of poison ivy and other poisonous plants when handling firewood. Wear gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin.
• Fire Hazards: Store firewood away from your house and other flammable materials to prevent fire hazards.

Project Planning and Execution: From Tree to Fireplace

Planning and executing a firewood project involves several steps, from selecting the trees to cutting and splitting the wood, to seasoning and storing it.

Assessing Your Needs

The first step in planning a firewood project is to assess your needs. How much firewood do you need to heat your home for the winter? How much space do you have for storing firewood? How much time and effort are you willing to invest in the project?

• BTU Calculation: Calculate the amount of firewood you need based on your home’s heating requirements and the BTU rating of the wood you’re using.
• Storage Space: Determine how much space you have available for storing firewood. A cord of wood typically occupies about 128 cubic feet.
• Time Commitment: Estimate how much time you’ll need to spend cutting, splitting, and seasoning the firewood.

Selecting the Trees

If you’re harvesting your own firewood, you’ll need to select the trees carefully. Choose trees that are dead, dying, or diseased, as these trees are more likely to be dry and easy to split. Avoid trees that are growing near power lines or other hazards.

• Sustainable Harvesting: Practice sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure the long-term health of the forest. This includes only harvesting trees that are mature or damaged, and leaving younger trees to grow.
• Permits and Regulations: Check with your local authorities to determine if you need a permit to harvest firewood on public lands.

Cutting and Splitting the Wood

Once you’ve selected the trees, you’ll need to cut them down and split them into manageable sizes. Use a chainsaw to fell the trees and cut them into logs. Then, use an axe, a splitting maul, or a hydraulic log splitter to split the logs into firewood.

• Safety First: Always prioritize safety when cutting and splitting wood. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection. Use proper techniques to avoid injuries.

Seasoning and Storing the Wood

After you’ve cut and split the wood, you’ll need to season it properly. Stack the wood off the ground in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry for at least six months, and preferably a year or more. Once the wood is seasoned, store it in a dry place, such as a woodshed or a covered pile.

• Pest Control: Take steps to prevent insect infestation by storing the wood away from your house and treating it with an insecticide if necessary.

Detailed Comparisons: Hardwood vs. Softwood, Manual vs. Hydraulic

To make informed decisions about firewood and processing methods, it’s helpful to compare different options side-by-side.

Hardwood vs. Softwood: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Manual vs. Hydraulic Log Splitters: Weighing the Options

Practical Tips and Actionable Advice

Here are some practical tips and actionable advice you can apply immediately:

• Tip: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood before burning it. The ideal moisture content is 20% or less.
• Actionable Advice: Invest in a good quality moisture meter and use it regularly to ensure your firewood is properly seasoned.
• Tip: Store your firewood under a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.
• Actionable Advice: Build a simple woodshed or cover your firewood pile with a tarp to keep it dry and prevent it from rotting.
• Tip: Clean your chimney regularly to prevent creosote buildup.
• Actionable Advice: Schedule a professional chimney cleaning annually, or more frequently if you burn a lot of cedar or other resinous woods.
• Tip: Use cedar kindling to start your fires quickly and easily.
• Actionable Advice: Gather small pieces of cedar bark and twigs to use as kindling. These challenges can include:
  • Limited Access to Equipment: Many small workshops and DIYers lack access to expensive equipment such as hydraulic log splitters and firewood processors.
  • Limited Space: Space constraints can make it difficult to store large quantities of firewood.
  • Climate: Harsh climates can make it challenging to season firewood properly.
  • Regulations: Strict environmental regulations can limit the types of wood that can be burned.
  • Financial Constraints: Limited budgets can make it difficult to invest in the necessary tools and equipment.

  Despite these challenges, there are many ways for small workshops and DIYers to overcome these obstacles. This includes:

  • Sharing Equipment: Consider sharing equipment with neighbors or other DIYers.
  • Using Manual Methods: Embrace manual methods of cutting and splitting wood, such as axes and splitting mauls.
  • Adapting Seasoning Techniques: Adapt seasoning techniques to suit your local climate.
  • Following Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding firewood burning.
  • Budgeting Carefully: Budget carefully and prioritize essential tools and equipment.

  Conclusion: Is Cedar a Viable Firewood Option?

  So, does cedar make good firewood? The answer is a qualified “yes.” While it’s not the ideal primary fuel source due to its lower heat output and higher creosote production, cedar can be a valuable addition to your firewood arsenal, especially when used strategically. By following the expert tips I’ve shared, you can harness cedar’s easy ignition and pleasant aroma while minimizing its drawbacks. Remember, proper seasoning, mixing with hardwoods, and regular chimney maintenance are key to a safe and efficient burn. Now, get out there, process some wood, and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a well-tended fire!

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