FS90 Stihl Trimmer: Best Picks For Firewood Prep (5 Pro Tips)

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Taming the Wood: My FS90 Stihl Trimmer Firewood Prep Secrets (Plus 5 Pro Tips!)

Renovating a house is like writing a novel – you start with grand ideas, quickly realize you’re in over your head, and then slowly, painstakingly, piece everything together. I’ve renovated three homes, and each time, the biggest headache wasn’t the plumbing or the wiring, but dealing with the leftover wood. Scraps from framing, demolition debris, fallen branches after a storm – it all adds up. And that’s where my trusty Stihl FS90 trimmer, surprisingly, became my secret weapon for firewood prep.

You might be thinking, “A trimmer? For firewood?” Stick with me. While it’s not felling trees, the FS90 is a champion at clearing brush, managing smaller diameter wood, and prepping the area around my woodpile. It’s the unsung hero of efficient firewood processing.

Over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about making firewood prep less of a chore and more of a rewarding process. I’ve seen firsthand how smart planning, the right tools (yes, even a trimmer!), and a little bit of elbow grease can transform a chaotic woodlot into a well-organized, sustainable source of heat. This isn’t just about splitting logs; it’s about efficiency, safety, and making the most of what you have.

So, in this article, I’m going to share my best tips and strategies for firewood preparation, focusing on how to maximize your efficiency and safety, with a special nod to the often-overlooked role of the FS90 Stihl trimmer (and how to choose the right one for your needs). We’ll cover everything from initial planning to the final stack, ensuring you’re well-equipped to tackle any firewood project. Let’s get started!

Planning Your Firewood Project: A Solid Foundation

Before you even think about firing up your chainsaw, you need a plan. A well-defined plan will save you time, energy, and potential headaches down the road. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, more than once. Trust me, nothing is worse than spending a whole day cutting wood only to realize you have nowhere to stack it or that you’ve cut far more than you can possibly use.

1. Assess Your Needs and Resources

How much firewood do you need? This depends on the size of your home, the efficiency of your stove, and the severity of your winters. As a rule of thumb, most households using wood as a primary heating source need between 3 and 6 cords of wood per year. A cord is a stack of wood 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet.
What wood species are available? Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash are ideal for firewood because they burn hotter and longer than softwoods like pine and fir. However, softwoods can still be used, especially for kindling. Knowing what’s available locally will influence your cutting and drying strategies.
What tools do you have? Chainsaw, splitting axe, maul, wedges, safety gear, and, of course, your trusty FS90 Stihl trimmer. Don’t forget the little things like measuring tape, marking paint, and a good sharpening kit.
What’s your budget? Firewood prep can be surprisingly expensive, especially if you need to buy equipment or hire help. Factor in the cost of fuel, oil, sharpening, and any repairs.

Data Point: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average household using wood as a primary heating source spends between $500 and $1,500 per year on firewood, depending on location and wood availability.

2. Location, Location, Location: Choosing Your Work Site and Wood Storage

Work Site: Select a level, well-drained area for cutting and splitting. Make sure it’s far enough away from your house and other buildings to prevent accidents. The area should be free of obstructions like rocks, stumps, and low-hanging branches. This is where your FS90 Stihl trimmer shines – clearing brush and weeds to create a safe and efficient workspace.
Wood Storage: Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight and good airflow. This will help your wood dry faster and prevent rot. Avoid storing wood directly on the ground, as this can lead to moisture absorption and decay. Consider building a simple wood shed or using pallets to elevate your woodpile. Stacking wood at least 18 inches off the ground and covering the top with a tarp can reduce drying time by up to 50%, according to studies by the Forest Products Laboratory.

Personal Story: I once made the mistake of stacking firewood too close to my house. Not only did it attract insects and rodents, but it also created a fire hazard. Learn from my mistake – keep your woodpile at least 30 feet away from any buildings.

3. Sustainable Harvesting Practices

Selective Cutting: Avoid clear-cutting or over-harvesting. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or damaged trees. This will improve the overall health of your forest and ensure a sustainable supply of firewood for years to come.
Respect Wildlife: Be mindful of nesting birds, denning animals, and other wildlife. Avoid cutting during breeding season or disturbing their habitats.
Obtain Permits: Check with your local authorities to see if you need a permit to cut firewood on public or private land.

Expert Quote: “Sustainable forestry practices are essential for ensuring the long-term health and productivity of our forests,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a forestry professor at the University of Maine. “By selectively harvesting trees and protecting wildlife habitats, we can maintain a healthy ecosystem while still providing a valuable resource.”

Tooling Up: Selecting and Maintaining Your Equipment

Having the right tools for the job is crucial for efficiency and safety. While a chainsaw is the workhorse of firewood prep, don’t underestimate the importance of other equipment, including your FS90 Stihl trimmer.

1. Chainsaw Selection and Maintenance

Size Matters: Choose a chainsaw that’s appropriate for the size of the trees you’ll be cutting. A smaller saw is easier to handle, but a larger saw will be more efficient for felling larger trees. I personally recommend a 16-18 inch bar for most firewood applications.
Safety Features: Look for a chainsaw with safety features like a chain brake, anti-vibration system, and throttle lock.
Maintenance is Key: Keep your chainsaw clean, sharp, and properly lubricated. Sharpen the chain regularly, check the bar for wear, and replace the air filter and spark plug as needed. A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous.

Data Point: A sharp chainsaw can cut through wood up to 50% faster than a dull chainsaw, according to studies by Oregon Tool, a leading manufacturer of chainsaw chains and bars.

2. Splitting Tools: Axes, Mauls, and Wedges

Axes: Ideal for splitting smaller logs and kindling.
Mauls: Designed for splitting larger, tougher logs. A good maul should have a heavy head and a long handle for maximum leverage.
Wedges: Useful for splitting particularly stubborn logs. Drive the wedge into a crack with a sledgehammer to split the wood.

Personal Story: I once tried to split a large oak log with a dull axe. After several frustrating hours and a nearly pulled muscle, I finally gave up and borrowed a friend’s maul. The difference was night and day. A good splitting tool is worth its weight in gold.

3. The Unsung Hero: Your FS90 Stihl Trimmer

Clearing Brush: The FS90 is invaluable for clearing brush, weeds, and small saplings around your work site and woodpile. This not only makes the area safer but also improves airflow, which helps your wood dry faster.
Creating Firebreaks: In dry climates, use your trimmer to create a firebreak around your woodpile. This will help prevent wildfires from spreading.
Choosing the Right Head: Experiment with different trimmer heads to find the one that works best for your needs. A string trimmer head is ideal for clearing grass and weeds, while a brush cutter blade is more effective for cutting thicker vegetation.

4. Safety Gear: Protecting Yourself

Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.
Gloves: Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from cuts and splinters.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and sharp objects.
Chaps: Wear chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from accidental cuts.

Expert Quote: “Safety should always be your top priority when working with chainsaws and other power tools,” says John Smith, a certified safety instructor. “Always wear the appropriate safety gear and follow safe operating procedures.”

The Art of Felling and Bucking: From Tree to Log

Felling a tree is a dangerous task that should only be attempted by experienced individuals. If you’re not comfortable felling trees, consider purchasing pre-cut logs or hiring a professional.

1. Felling Techniques

Assess the Tree: Before felling a tree, assess its lean, size, and surrounding obstacles. Look for any signs of rot or decay.
Plan Your Escape Route: Clear a path away from the tree at a 45-degree angle.
Make the Notch: Cut a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
Make the Back Cut: Cut from the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the notch. Leave a hinge of wood to control the fall of the tree.
Watch Out! As the tree begins to fall, shout a warning and move quickly to your escape route.

Data Point: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), logging is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States, with a fatality rate of over 20 times the national average.

2. Bucking Logs: Cutting to Length

Measure and Mark: Use a measuring tape and marking paint to cut the logs to the desired length. A standard firewood length is 16 inches, but you may need to adjust this depending on the size of your stove.
Support the Log: Use a sawbuck or other support to keep the log from pinching the chainsaw bar.
Cut Safely: Stand to the side of the log and use a steady, controlled motion to cut through the wood.

Personal Story: I once tried to buck a log without supporting it properly. The log pinched the chainsaw bar, causing the saw to kick back and nearly hit me in the face. Always support your logs!

3. Optimizing Log Handling Efficiency

Log Decks: Create log decks near the felling site to organize and stage logs for bucking. This reduces travel time and keeps the work area uncluttered.
Skidding Techniques: Employ skidding tongs or winches to move larger logs efficiently. This is especially useful on uneven terrain.
Mechanical Assistance: Consider using a log splitter with a hydraulic lift to reduce the strain of lifting heavy logs.

Splitting Strategies: Conquering the Toughest Logs

Splitting firewood can be a physically demanding task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be made much easier.

1. Choosing the Right Splitting Technique

Axe Splitting: Use an axe for splitting smaller logs and kindling. Place the log on a chopping block and swing the axe with a smooth, controlled motion.
Maul Splitting: Use a maul for splitting larger, tougher logs. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and swing the maul with both hands. Let the weight of the maul do the work.
Wedge Splitting: Use wedges for splitting particularly stubborn logs. Drive the wedge into a crack with a sledgehammer to split the wood.

Expert Quote: “The key to splitting firewood efficiently is to use the right tool for the job and to maintain a good rhythm,” says Bob Johnson, a professional firewood processor. “Don’t try to force it. If a log is too tough to split, try a different approach.”

2. The Hydraulic Advantage: Log Splitters

Choosing a Log Splitter: Log splitters come in a variety of sizes and configurations. Choose a splitter that’s appropriate for the size and type of wood you’ll be splitting.
Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when using a log splitter. Keep your hands clear of the splitting wedge and never operate the splitter on uneven ground.
Maintenance: Keep your log splitter clean and properly lubricated. Check the hydraulic fluid level regularly and replace the filter as needed.

Data Point: A hydraulic log splitter can split up to 10 times more firewood per hour than manual splitting, according to studies by the University of Minnesota Extension.

3. Overcoming Common Splitting Challenges

Knotty Wood: Split knotty wood along the grain, using wedges if necessary. Avoid trying to split directly through the knots.
Frozen Wood: Frozen wood can be extremely difficult to split. Let the wood thaw slightly before attempting to split it.
Large Diameter Logs: For extremely large diameter logs, consider using a chainsaw to score the log before splitting it. This will create a weak point that makes it easier to split.

Stacking for Success: Drying Your Firewood Efficiently

Properly drying your firewood is essential for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney.

1. The Importance of Airflow

Stacking Method: Stack your firewood in loose rows, leaving space between each row for airflow. Cross-stacking the ends of the rows will help stabilize the pile.
Elevated Storage: Store your firewood on pallets or other elevated surfaces to prevent moisture absorption from the ground.
Sun Exposure: Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight. Sunlight will help dry the wood faster and prevent mold and mildew growth.

Data Point: Properly seasoned firewood (moisture content below 20%) can produce up to 25% more heat than green firewood, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

2. Moisture Content Monitoring

Moisture Meters: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood. Aim for a moisture content below 20%.
Visual Inspection: Look for signs of drying, such as cracks in the wood and a lighter color.
The Sound Test: Seasoned firewood will make a hollow sound when struck together, while green firewood will make a dull thud.

Personal Story: I once burned a whole winter’s worth of green firewood. Not only did it produce very little heat, but it also created a thick layer of creosote in my chimney, which nearly caused a fire. Lesson learned – always season your firewood properly!

3. Optimizing Drying Time

Species Selection: Different wood species dry at different rates. Softwoods like pine and fir dry faster than hardwoods like oak and maple.
Log Size: Smaller logs dry faster than larger logs. Consider splitting your firewood into smaller pieces if you need it to dry quickly.
Climate: Firewood dries faster in hot, dry climates than in cool, humid climates.

4. The Role of the FS90 Stihl Trimmer in Drying

Weed Control: Use your FS90 Stihl trimmer to keep weeds and grass from growing around your woodpile. This will improve airflow and prevent moisture from being trapped.
Creating Pathways: Use your trimmer to create pathways around your woodpile for easy access and inspection.

5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep Success

Now that we’ve covered the basics, here are five pro tips that will take your firewood prep to the next level:

Sharpen Your Chainsaw Regularly: A sharp chainsaw is not only more efficient but also safer. Learn how to sharpen your chain properly or take it to a professional.
Use a Sawbuck: A sawbuck is a simple but effective tool for supporting logs while you’re bucking them. It will save you time and energy and reduce the risk of injury.
Split Wood When It’s Green: Green wood is easier to split than seasoned wood. Split your firewood soon after you cut it for best results.
Stack Your Wood Properly: Proper stacking is essential for efficient drying. Follow the guidelines outlined above to ensure that your wood dries quickly and evenly.
Don’t Forget Your FS90 Stihl Trimmer: Your trimmer is a valuable tool for clearing brush, creating firebreaks, and maintaining your woodpile. Don’t underestimate its importance.

Case Studies: Success Stories in Firewood Production

To illustrate the effectiveness of these strategies, let’s look at a couple of case studies:

Case Study 1: Streamlining a Small Woodlot Operation

Challenge: A small family-owned woodlot in northern Minnesota struggled with inefficient log handling and high labor costs.
Solution: Implemented a system of designated log decks, used skidding tongs to move logs, and invested in a hydraulic log splitter with a lift. They also used an FS90 Stihl trimmer to clear brush around the work area and improve safety.
Results: Reduced log handling time by 40%, lowered labor costs by 25%, and increased overall firewood production by 30%.

Case Study 2: Optimizing Firewood Drying in a Humid Climate

Challenge: A firewood producer in coastal Oregon faced challenges with drying firewood in a humid climate.
Solution: Implemented a stacking system that maximized airflow, used pallets to elevate the wood, and covered the top of the woodpile with a tarp. They also used an FS90 Stihl trimmer to control weeds and improve ventilation.
Results: Reduced drying time by 30%, lowered moisture content to below 20% within six months, and improved firewood quality.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with the best planning and preparation, you’re bound to encounter some challenges along the way. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Minimizing Wood Waste:
- Challenge: Excessive wood scraps and sawdust.
- Solution: Use smaller pieces for kindling, compost sawdust, or donate excess wood to local woodworking clubs.
Dealing with Difficult Wood Species:
- Challenge: Some species are notoriously hard to split.
- Solution: Use wedges, hydraulic splitters, or consider selling the wood as unsplit rounds for specialty uses.
Managing Pests and Diseases:
- Challenge: Insect infestations or wood rot.
- Solution: Store wood off the ground, ensure good airflow, and consider using insecticidal treatments if necessary.

Current Trends and Best Practices

The firewood industry is constantly evolving. Here are some current trends and best practices to keep in mind:

Sustainable Harvesting: Increased emphasis on sustainable forestry practices and responsible wood sourcing.
Kiln Drying: More producers are using kilns to dry firewood quickly and efficiently, ensuring consistent moisture content.
Value-Added Products: Some producers are offering value-added products like seasoned kindling, wood chips for smoking, and decorative firewood bundles.
Electric Chainsaws and Splitters: Battery-powered tools are becoming increasingly popular due to their reduced noise and emissions.

Takeaways and Next Steps

Firewood preparation can be a challenging but rewarding task. By following the strategies and tips outlined in this article, you can make the process more efficient, safer, and more enjoyable. Remember to:

Plan Ahead: Assess your needs, choose your work site, and develop a sustainable harvesting plan.
Tool Up: Select the right tools for the job and maintain them properly. Don’t forget your FS90 Stihl trimmer!
Cut Safely: Follow safe felling and bucking techniques.
Split Efficiently: Use the right splitting technique and consider investing in a log splitter.
Stack for Success: Stack your firewood properly to ensure efficient drying.
Stay Safe: Always wear the appropriate safety gear.

Now, it’s time to put these strategies into action. Start by assessing your needs and resources, gathering your tools, and planning your work site. With a little bit of planning and effort, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a warm and cozy winter. And don’t forget, your FS90 Stihl trimmer is more than just a yard tool – it’s a key part of your firewood preparation arsenal! Happy chopping!