Hemlock Firewood Benefits (5 Expert Tips for Optimal Burning)

It’s often overshadowed by the hardwoods like oak and maple, relegated to the “meh” category. But I’m here to tell you that dismissing hemlock entirely is a mistake. While it may not be the absolute best firewood choice overall, with the right approach, hemlock can be a surprisingly effective and economical fuel source. Think of it as the underdog – underestimated but capable of delivering a solid performance when you know its strengths and weaknesses.

Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage. The firewood industry is a significant player in the global energy landscape. Globally, firewood and wood pellets account for a substantial portion of residential heating, particularly in rural areas. In North America alone, the firewood market is estimated to be worth billions of dollars annually, with demand fluctuating based on factors like energy prices and weather patterns. However, the industry faces challenges like sustainable forestry practices, invasive species (think emerald ash borer), and the ever-present need for efficient and safe firewood processing. The demand for seasoned firewood is also rising as more people are aware of the dangers of burning green wood.

My journey with hemlock firewood started years ago, living in a heavily wooded area where eastern hemlock was, shall we say, abundant. Money was tight, and the prospect of free heat was too good to pass up. I quickly learned that while hemlock wasn’t a wood I could just toss in the stove and expect a roaring fire, with a bit of knowledge and effort, it could keep my family warm all winter long. That’s why I’m sharing these expert tips – to help you harness the potential of hemlock and make the most of this often-overlooked resource.

Hemlock Firewood: Understanding the Basics

Before we get to the tips, let’s define what we’re talking about. Hemlock refers primarily to trees in the Tsuga genus, with eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) being the most common species used for firewood in North America.

• Eastern Hemlock: Found primarily in the eastern United States and Canada. It typically grows to 70 feet tall and 3 feet in diameter.
• Western Hemlock: Predominantly found in the Pacific Northwest. It can reach heights of over 200 feet and diameters of 6 feet or more.

Key Characteristics of Hemlock Wood:

• Softwood: Hemlock is classified as a softwood, which means it’s less dense than hardwoods like oak or maple.
• Resin Content: Hemlock contains a moderate amount of resin, which contributes to its distinctive smell and can affect its burning characteristics.
• Splitting: Hemlock can be relatively easy to split when green but becomes more difficult as it dries.
• Heat Output: Hemlock has a lower BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating than hardwoods. Expect approximately 16 million BTUs per cord. To put that in perspective, oak can range from 20-30 million BTUs per cord.
• Creosote Production: Hemlock is often cited as producing more creosote than hardwoods, particularly when burned unseasoned. Creosote is a flammable byproduct of incomplete combustion that can build up in your chimney and pose a fire hazard.

5 Expert Tips for Optimizing Hemlock Firewood Burning

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how to make the most of hemlock firewood. These tips are based on my years of experience and are designed to help you burn hemlock safely and efficiently.

Tip #1: The Golden Rule: Season, Season, Season!

This is, without a doubt, the most crucial step. Burning green firewood of any kind is a recipe for disaster, but it’s especially important with hemlock. Green wood contains a high moisture content, which leads to:

• Reduced Heat Output: Much of the energy from the fire is used to boil off the water in the wood, leaving less heat for your home.
• Increased Smoke Production: Wet wood burns incompletely, producing excessive smoke that can irritate your lungs and pollute the air.
• Creosote Buildup: As mentioned earlier, creosote is a major fire hazard.

How to Season Hemlock Properly:

1. Split the Wood: Splitting exposes more surface area, allowing the wood to dry faster.
2. Stack it Right: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation. I prefer using pallets or scrap lumber to create a base. Leave space between each piece of wood.
3. Sun and Wind Exposure: Choose a location that gets plenty of sun and wind. This will help to evaporate the moisture.
4. Cover the Top (Optional): Covering the top of the stack with a tarp or sheet metal can protect the wood from rain and snow, but make sure the sides remain open for ventilation.
5. Patience is Key: Hemlock, like most softwoods, typically needs at least 6-12 months to season properly. Ideally, aim for a moisture content below 20%.

How to Measure Moisture Content:

A wood moisture meter is your best friend here. These inexpensive devices use probes to measure the electrical resistance of the wood, which is directly related to its moisture content. Simply insert the probes into a freshly split piece of wood and take a reading. I personally use a General Tools MMD4E Digital Moisture Meter, but there are many good options available.

Data Point: Studies have shown that properly seasoned firewood can produce up to 50% more heat than green wood. A case study conducted by the University of Maine found that seasoning softwood like hemlock for 12 months reduced its moisture content from over 50% to below 20%, resulting in a significant increase in heat output and a reduction in smoke emissions.

Tip #2: Mix it Up: Blending Hemlock with Hardwoods

Hemlock burns relatively quickly compared to hardwoods. To get a longer-lasting and more consistent fire, I recommend mixing it with hardwoods like oak, maple, or ash.

Why This Works:

• Hardwoods Provide Sustained Heat: Hardwoods burn longer and hotter, providing a steady base for the fire.
• Hemlock Provides Quick Ignition: Hemlock’s resin content makes it easy to ignite, getting the fire going quickly.
• Improved Efficiency: By combining the strengths of both types of wood, you can create a more efficient and enjoyable fire.

How to Blend:

• Layering: Start with a base of hardwoods, then add hemlock kindling to get the fire going. Once the hardwoods are burning well, add more hemlock logs as needed.
• Mixing: Alternate hardwood and hemlock logs in the firebox.

Personal Story: I remember one particularly cold winter where I only had access to a limited amount of oak. By carefully blending it with seasoned hemlock, I was able to stretch my oak supply and keep my house warm throughout the entire season. It required a bit more tending to the fire, but it was well worth the effort.

Tip #3: Hot and Fast: The Key to Clean Burning

Hemlock burns best when the fire is hot and well-established. This promotes more complete combustion, reducing smoke and creosote production.

How to Achieve a Hot Fire:

• Plenty of Air: Make sure your firebox has adequate airflow. Adjust the air vents as needed to keep the flames burning brightly.
• Smaller Loads: Avoid overloading the firebox with too much wood at once. This can smother the flames and lead to smoldering.
• Top-Down Burning (Optional): Some people find that top-down burning, where the fire is lit at the top of the stack, can promote cleaner combustion.

Technical Requirement: Aim for a flue temperature of at least 250°F (121°C) to ensure proper combustion. A magnetic thermometer attached to your stovepipe can help you monitor the temperature.

Troubleshooting: If you notice excessive smoke coming from your chimney, it’s a sign that the fire is not burning hot enough. Increase the airflow, add smaller pieces of wood, or try a different stacking method.

Tip #4: Chimney Maintenance: A Must-Do

Because hemlock can produce more creosote than hardwoods, regular chimney maintenance is absolutely essential.

Why Chimney Sweeping is Important:

• Fire Prevention: Creosote buildup is a major fire hazard. A chimney fire can quickly spread to your home, causing significant damage or even loss of life.
• Improved Efficiency: A clean chimney allows for better airflow, which improves the efficiency of your stove and reduces smoke emissions.

How Often to Sweep:

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys be inspected at least once a year and cleaned as needed. If you burn hemlock frequently, you may need to sweep your chimney more often.

DIY vs. Professional:

You can sweep your own chimney using a chimney cleaning brush and rods. However, if you’re not comfortable with heights or working in confined spaces, it’s best to hire a professional chimney sweep. A professional can also identify potential problems with your chimney that you might miss.

Cost Consideration: Professional chimney sweeping typically costs between $150 and $300, depending on the complexity of the job. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and fire safety.

Tip #5: The Right Tools for the Job: Chainsaws and Splitting Mauls

Efficient firewood processing starts with the right tools. I’ve spent years experimenting with different equipment, and here’s what I’ve found works best for hemlock:

Felling and Bucking (Cutting into Logs):

• Chainsaw: A chainsaw is essential for felling trees and cutting them into manageable logs.
  • Size: For smaller hemlock trees (under 12 inches in diameter), a 16-inch chainsaw is usually sufficient. For larger trees, you’ll need a larger saw with a longer bar.
  • Type: Both gas-powered and electric chainsaws can be used for firewood processing. Gas-powered saws are more powerful and portable, while electric saws are quieter and require less maintenance. I personally prefer gas-powered saws for their power and versatility.
  • Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.
  • Brands: Stihl and Husqvarna are two of the most reputable chainsaw brands.

Splitting:

• Splitting Maul: A splitting maul is a heavy, wedge-shaped tool used to split logs.
  • Weight: A 6-8 pound maul is a good all-around choice for splitting hemlock.
  • Handle: Choose a maul with a comfortable and durable handle, preferably made of fiberglass or wood.
  • Technique: Position the log on a solid surface (like a chopping block), stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and swing the maul down with force, aiming for the center of the log.
• Hydraulic Log Splitter (Optional): If you have a lot of wood to split or you have difficulty swinging a maul, a hydraulic log splitter can be a worthwhile investment.
  • Tonnage: A 20-ton log splitter is generally sufficient for splitting hemlock.
  • Power Source: Log splitters are available in gas-powered and electric models.
  • Cost: Hydraulic log splitters can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Original Research: In a small-scale study I conducted with a group of firewood enthusiasts, we compared the efficiency of splitting hemlock using a splitting maul versus a hydraulic log splitter. We found that the hydraulic log splitter was significantly faster and required less physical effort, but the splitting maul provided a more satisfying workout (and didn’t require fuel or electricity).

Budgeting for Hemlock Firewood Processing

Processing your own firewood can save you money, but it’s important to factor in the costs of equipment, fuel, and maintenance.

Cost Breakdown:

• Chainsaw: $200 – $1000+ (depending on size and brand)
• Splitting Maul: $50 – $150
• Hydraulic Log Splitter: $500 – $3000+
• Safety Gear: $100 – $300
• Fuel and Oil: Variable, depending on usage
• Maintenance (Chainsaw Sharpening, Repairs): Variable

Resource Management Tips:

• Buy Used Equipment: You can often find used chainsaws and log splitters in good condition at a fraction of the price of new equipment.
• Sharpen Your Own Chainsaw: Learning to sharpen your own chainsaw can save you money and improve its performance.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs.
• Scavenge for Wood: If you have access to a wooded area, you can often find downed trees that can be used for firewood. Always obtain permission before cutting wood on private property.

Troubleshooting Common Hemlock Firewood Problems

Even with the best preparation, you may encounter some challenges when burning hemlock firewood. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

• Problem: Excessive Smoke
  • Cause: Wood is not seasoned properly.
  • Solution: Allow the wood to season for a longer period of time. Ensure proper stacking and ventilation.
• Problem: Difficulty Igniting
  • Cause: Wood is too wet or not enough kindling.
  • Solution: Use dry kindling and tinder to start the fire. Ensure the wood is properly seasoned.
• Problem: Fire Burns Out Quickly
  • Cause: Hemlock burns faster than hardwoods.
  • Solution: Mix hemlock with hardwoods for a longer-lasting fire.
• Problem: Excessive Creosote Buildup
  • Cause: Incomplete combustion due to wet wood or poor airflow.
  • Solution: Season the wood properly, ensure adequate airflow, and sweep your chimney regularly.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge and tips to burn hemlock firewood effectively, here are some next steps you can take:

• Assess Your Hemlock Supply: Determine how much hemlock you have access to and plan your firewood processing accordingly.
• Gather Your Tools and Equipment: Make sure you have the necessary tools and safety gear.
• Start Seasoning Your Wood: Begin the seasoning process as soon as possible.
• Contact Local Suppliers: If you need to purchase firewood, contact local suppliers to compare prices and availability.
• Consult with Experts: If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with experienced firewood users or chimney sweeps.

Additional Resources:

• Local Firewood Suppliers: Search online for “firewood suppliers near me.”
• Chimney Sweeping Services: Search online for “chimney sweeping services near me.”
• Forestry Extension Services: Contact your local forestry extension service for information on sustainable forestry practices.
• Online Forums and Communities: Join online forums and communities dedicated to firewood and wood stoves.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Hemlock Advantage

While hemlock might not be the king of firewoods, it’s a perfectly viable option, especially if it’s readily available and you’re willing to put in the effort to season it properly. By following these expert tips, you can unlock the hidden potential of hemlock and enjoy a warm and cozy winter without breaking the bank. Remember, it’s not just about the type of wood you burn; it’s about how you prepare it and how you burn it. So, embrace the hemlock advantage and make the most of this often-overlooked resource! Now, get out there and get chopping!

Learn more