Elm Wood for Firewood (5 Splitting Tips Experts Swear By)
“Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” – Abraham Lincoln
As someone who’s spent countless hours in the woods, turning standing timber into warming fires, I can tell you that Abraham Lincoln’s words ring especially true when dealing with elm. Elm wood for firewood can be a real mixed bag. On one hand, it boasts a decent BTU output, meaning it gives off good heat. On the other, it has a reputation for being notoriously difficult to split. But don’t let that scare you away. With the right techniques and a little know-how, you can tame this tough wood and enjoy its warmth all winter long.
In this article, I’m going to share my hard-earned wisdom on splitting elm for firewood, including five expert tips that I swear by. We’ll delve into the unique characteristics of elm wood, explore the best tools for the job, and discuss the most effective splitting techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned woodcutter or a complete beginner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to conquer elm and transform it into a valuable source of heat.
Understanding Elm Wood: A Closer Look
Before we dive into the splitting techniques, it’s important to understand what makes elm wood so challenging in the first place. Elm isn’t just one type of tree; it’s a genus comprising several species, each with slightly different properties. However, they all share some common characteristics that affect their workability.
Wood Anatomy and Properties
Elm is a hardwood, meaning it comes from a deciduous tree that loses its leaves in the fall. Hardwoods are generally denser than softwoods like pine or fir, and this density translates to a higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, which measures the amount of heat produced when burning. Elm typically has a BTU rating around 20 million BTUs per cord, putting it in the mid-range of firewood options.
The real challenge with elm lies in its grain structure. Elm has an interlocked grain, meaning the wood fibers run in different directions, often twisting and swirling around knots. This makes it incredibly resistant to splitting, as the force of the axe or splitter is deflected by the irregular grain pattern. Imagine trying to tear a piece of fabric where the threads are woven in multiple directions – that’s what splitting elm can feel like.
Another factor contributing to elm’s splitting difficulty is its stringy nature. When split, elm tends to separate into long, fibrous strands rather than clean breaks. This can make it difficult to handle and stack.
Elm Species and Their Firewood Qualities
Different elm species have slightly varying properties. Here’s a quick overview of some common types:
- American Elm (Ulmus americana): Once a majestic tree, American elm has been decimated by Dutch elm disease. If you find some that’s been felled due to the disease, it can still be used for firewood. It’s generally considered one of the tougher elms to split.
- Red Elm (Ulmus rubra), also known as Slippery Elm: Red elm is slightly easier to split than American elm, but it still presents a challenge. It gets its name from the slippery inner bark, which has medicinal properties.
- Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila): Siberian elm is often considered the least desirable elm for firewood. It tends to be smaller and more knotty than other species, making it even more difficult to split. It also has a lower BTU rating than other elms.
- Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii): Rock elm is the densest and strongest of the elms. It’s also the most difficult to split. However, its high density also means it has a higher BTU rating, making it a good choice for firewood if you’re willing to put in the extra effort.
Moisture Content and Seasoning
Like all firewood, elm needs to be properly seasoned before burning. Seasoning reduces the moisture content of the wood, which improves its burning efficiency and reduces the amount of smoke produced. Freshly cut (green) elm can have a moisture content of 50% or higher. Ideally, you want to get the moisture content down to 20% or less before burning.
Seasoning typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the climate and the size of the wood. To season elm properly, split it into manageable pieces, stack it off the ground in a well-ventilated area, and cover the top to protect it from rain and snow.
I’ve found that elm can be particularly slow to season due to its density. I always err on the side of caution and give it at least a year, sometimes even longer, before burning it. Using a moisture meter is a great way to check the moisture content and ensure your firewood is ready to go.
The Right Tools for Taming Elm
Having the right tools is crucial when splitting elm. Trying to tackle it with a dull axe or an undersized splitter is a recipe for frustration and potentially injury.
Axe Selection: Choosing the Right Weapon
For manual splitting, I recommend a heavy splitting axe or maul. A splitting axe is designed with a wide, wedge-shaped head that’s optimized for splitting wood along the grain. A maul is similar to an axe, but it has a heavier head and a shorter handle, making it more powerful for driving into tough wood.
When choosing an axe, consider the weight of the head and the length of the handle. A heavier head will generate more force, but it will also be more tiring to swing. A longer handle will give you more leverage, but it can also be more difficult to control. I personally prefer an axe with a 6-8 pound head and a 36-inch handle.
A splitting axe is great for manageable rounds, but for those truly gnarly pieces of elm, a splitting maul is your best friend. The extra weight behind each swing makes a noticeable difference, especially when dealing with interlocked grain.
Hydraulic Splitters: The Powerhouse Option
If you’re dealing with a lot of elm or simply want to save your back, a hydraulic log splitter is a worthwhile investment. Hydraulic splitters use a hydraulic ram to push a log against a wedge, splitting it with tremendous force.
Log splitters are rated by the amount of force they can generate, typically measured in tons. For splitting elm, I recommend a splitter with at least 20 tons of force. More powerful splitters will make the job easier, especially when dealing with large, knotty rounds.
When choosing a log splitter, consider the size of the logs you’ll be splitting. Most splitters can handle logs up to 24 inches in diameter, but some can accommodate larger logs. Also, think about whether you want a gas-powered or electric splitter. Gas-powered splitters are more powerful and portable, but they require more maintenance. Electric splitters are quieter and cleaner, but they need to be plugged into an outlet.
I’ve used both gas and electric splitters, and while the gas-powered models offer more raw power, I appreciate the convenience and quiet operation of an electric splitter for smaller jobs around the house.
Wedges and Sledges: The Backup Crew
Even with a good axe or splitter, you may encounter pieces of elm that are particularly stubborn. That’s where wedges and sledges come in handy.
A splitting wedge is a metal wedge that you drive into a log with a sledgehammer. Wedges are useful for splitting logs that are too large or too knotty to split with an axe alone.
A sledgehammer is a heavy hammer with a long handle. It’s used to drive wedges into logs or to strike the back of an axe to help split tough wood.
I always keep a couple of splitting wedges and a sledgehammer on hand when splitting elm. They’ve saved me countless times when I’ve encountered a particularly challenging piece of wood.
Maintaining Your Tools: Keeping Them Sharp and Ready
No matter what tools you use, it’s important to keep them properly maintained. A dull axe or splitter will be less effective and more dangerous to use.
Sharpen your axe regularly with a file or sharpening stone. Keep the blade clean and free of rust. For hydraulic splitters, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance, including checking the fluid levels and lubricating moving parts.
I make it a habit to sharpen my axe after every few hours of use. It only takes a few minutes, and it makes a huge difference in performance. A sharp axe bites into the wood cleanly, reducing the amount of effort required to split it.
5 Splitting Tips Experts Swear By
Now that we’ve covered the basics of elm wood and the tools you’ll need, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of splitting techniques. Here are five tips that I’ve learned over the years that will help you conquer even the toughest elm:
1. Read the Grain: Understanding the Wood’s Weak Points
The first and most important tip is to “read the grain.” This means taking a close look at the log and identifying the natural lines of weakness in the wood. Look for cracks, knots, or areas where the grain is relatively straight. These are the points where the wood is most likely to split easily.
Elm’s interlocked grain can make this challenging, but with practice, you’ll start to recognize patterns. Avoid aiming for areas where the grain is twisted or knotted, as these will be much harder to split.
I often spend a few minutes examining each log before I even pick up my axe. I’m looking for any clues that will help me determine the best place to strike. Sometimes, a small crack or a slight change in the grain direction is all you need to find the sweet spot.
2. Aim for the Edges: The Perimeter Advantage
Instead of trying to split the log right down the middle, try aiming for the edges. The wood is often weaker near the bark, and splitting from the edge can create a crack that will propagate towards the center.
This technique is particularly effective for larger logs. Start by splitting off a few pieces around the perimeter, then work your way towards the center.
I’ve found that this method is especially helpful with elm. By attacking the edges first, you can often relieve some of the internal tension and make it easier to split the remaining wood.
3. The “Cheater” Method: Using Wedges Strategically
When you encounter a particularly stubborn piece of elm, don’t be afraid to use wedges. Drive a wedge into a crack or along a line of weakness, then use a sledgehammer to drive it further. This will help to widen the crack and split the wood.
You can also use multiple wedges simultaneously. Place one wedge on each side of the log and alternate hammering them in. This will distribute the force more evenly and prevent the wood from binding.
Wedges are my go-to solution for those pieces of elm that simply refuse to split with an axe alone. They’re like a secret weapon that can turn a frustrating situation into a satisfying victory.
4. The Tire Trick: Stabilizing Difficult Rounds
This is one of my favorite tips, and it’s especially useful for splitting rounds that are prone to tipping over or rolling around. Place the round inside an old tire, then split it as usual. The tire will hold the round in place, preventing it from moving and making it easier to split safely.
The tire also helps to contain the split pieces, preventing them from flying off and potentially causing injury.
I’ve been using the tire trick for years, and it’s made splitting firewood much safer and more efficient. It’s especially helpful when dealing with oddly shaped or unstable rounds.
5. Embrace the Hydraulic Splitter: When Manual Labor Isn’t Enough
Let’s face it: sometimes, elm is just too tough to split by hand. In these cases, a hydraulic log splitter is your best bet.
A hydraulic splitter can generate tremendous force, making it much easier to split even the most stubborn pieces of elm. It’s also much less physically demanding than manual splitting, which can save you a lot of time and energy.
While I enjoy the exercise and satisfaction of splitting wood by hand, I’m not afraid to admit that I often turn to my hydraulic splitter when dealing with elm. It’s simply the most efficient and effective way to get the job done.
Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations
Once you’ve split your elm firewood, it’s crucial to season it properly before burning. Seasoning reduces the moisture content of the wood, which improves its burning efficiency and reduces the amount of smoke produced.
Proper Stacking for Optimal Airflow
Stack your firewood off the ground on pallets or rails to allow for air circulation underneath. This will help the wood dry more quickly. Stack the wood in rows, leaving space between each row for air to flow.
I like to stack my firewood in a crisscross pattern, which creates a stable and well-ventilated pile. I also make sure to orient the rows so that they are exposed to the prevailing winds.
Covering for Protection: Balancing Ventilation and Weather Resistance
Cover the top of the firewood pile with a tarp or roof to protect it from rain and snow. However, be sure to leave the sides open to allow for ventilation.
I’ve found that a simple lean-to roof made of scrap wood and roofing felt works well for protecting my firewood pile. It keeps the rain and snow off while still allowing for plenty of airflow.
Safety First: Gear and Practices
Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting firewood. Protect your feet with sturdy boots. Be aware of your surroundings and make sure there are no people or objects in the path of your axe or splitter.
When using a hydraulic splitter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Keep your hands away from the splitting wedge and be sure to wear safety glasses.
I’m a firm believer in safety first. I never start splitting firewood without putting on my safety glasses, gloves, and boots. I also make sure to clear the area around me of any obstacles and warn anyone nearby that I’m about to start working.
Project Planning and Execution: From Tree to Fireplace
Before you even start splitting elm, it’s important to have a plan. This will help you to work more efficiently and safely.
Assessing Your Needs: Volume and Timeline
Determine how much firewood you’ll need for the winter. A typical household burns 3-5 cords of firewood per year, but this can vary depending on the size of your home and the efficiency of your stove.
Consider how much time you have to split and season the wood. Remember that elm can take 6-12 months to season properly, so you’ll need to start well in advance of the heating season.
I usually start planning my firewood supply in the spring. This gives me plenty of time to split and season the wood before winter arrives.
Sourcing Your Elm: Sustainable Practices
If you’re cutting down your own elm trees, be sure to follow sustainable forestry practices. Only harvest trees that are mature or diseased, and leave plenty of trees standing to provide habitat for wildlife.
You can also purchase elm firewood from a local supplier. Be sure to ask about the moisture content of the wood and whether it has been properly seasoned.
I’m a strong advocate for sustainable forestry. I only harvest trees that are necessary, and I always make sure to replant trees to replace the ones I’ve cut down.
Workspace Setup: Efficiency and Safety
Choose a level and stable workspace for splitting firewood. Clear the area of any obstacles and make sure there is plenty of room to maneuver.
Set up your tools and equipment in a convenient and organized manner. Keep your axe sharp and your splitter well-maintained.
I have a dedicated workspace for splitting firewood in my backyard. It’s a flat, gravel area that’s free of obstacles. I keep my axe, splitter, wedges, and sledgehammer neatly organized in a nearby shed.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is Elm Worth the Effort?
Splitting elm can be challenging, so it’s important to consider whether it’s worth the effort. Here’s a cost-benefit analysis to help you decide:
Comparing Elm to Other Firewood Options
Elm has a decent BTU rating, but it’s not as high as some other hardwoods like oak or maple. However, it’s also not as low as some softwoods like pine or fir.
Elm is generally less expensive than oak or maple, but it may be more expensive than pine or fir.
The biggest drawback of elm is its splitting difficulty. It takes more time and effort to split elm than it does to split most other types of wood.
Considering Time, Labor, and Equipment Costs
If you’re splitting elm by hand, you’ll need to factor in the cost of your time and labor. Splitting elm can be physically demanding, and it can take a significant amount of time to process a cord of wood.
If you’re using a hydraulic splitter, you’ll need to factor in the cost of the splitter, as well as the cost of fuel or electricity to run it.
Making an Informed Decision: Your Personal Factors
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use elm for firewood depends on your personal circumstances. If you have plenty of time and energy, and you enjoy the challenge of splitting tough wood, then elm can be a good option. However, if you’re short on time or you’re looking for an easier wood to split, then you may want to consider other options.
For me, the decision often comes down to availability. If I have access to elm, and the price is right, I’m willing to put in the extra effort to split it. But if other, easier-to-split woods are readily available, I may opt for those instead.
Conclusion: Taming the Elm Beast
Elm wood for firewood can be a rewarding, albeit challenging, experience. By understanding the unique properties of elm, using the right tools, and following these five expert splitting tips, you can conquer this tough wood and enjoy its warmth all winter long. Remember to prioritize safety, season your firewood properly, and consider the cost-benefit analysis before committing to elm. With a little patience and perseverance, you can tame the elm beast and transform it into a valuable source of heat for your home. Now, go forth and split some wood!
