Buying wood logs can be confusing– how do you know which firewood is best and how much you need?
Finding good quality wood at a cost-effective price is necessary when buying firewood. The most economical way to fuel your fireplace or fire pit is to cut your own firewood, but sometimes that’s not possible. Whether you lack the resources or simply don’t have the time, purchasing firewood may be your only option. However, buying wood logs can be confusing– how do you know which firewood is best and how much you need? Keep reading for some money-saving tips when buying firewood.
Determine How Much Storage Space You Have
Before deciding how much firewood to get, you must figure out where to store it. You may be tempted to buy firewood in bulk for a better price and more quantity to last through the year, but you’ll need to be realistic about how much wood you need and how much storage space you have. Remember that storing firewood with plenty of space between the logs is best to allow drying and prevent rotting. Don’t place the firewood next to your house or garage to avoid fire hazards or pest infestations.
Buy Firewood by the Cord
Larger quantities of firewood are sold by the cord. A cord is a stack of wood 8 ft. long x 4 ft. deep x 4 ft high. Some companies may use terms like “rack,” “rick,” “pile,” or “load” as units of measurement for firewood. A cord is the most common – and often the most reliable – unit of measurement and is used in the case of a discrepancy. Avoid illegitimate business dealings by only buying cords or half cords.
Understand the Firewood Market
Firewood prices are prone to fluctuations depending on availability and demand. Natural disasters, fires, tree disease, and population changes can affect the price of firewood in your area. Keep an eye on prices to find your best deal.
Determine What Kind of Firewood You Need
If you have an indoor fireplace, you should buy dense firewood such as oak and maple. Softer wood, like poplar, burns faster and doesn’t make long-lasting coals. Maple and fruitwoods are great for cooking fires because they infuse the ingredients with pleasant flavors. On the other hand, you should avoid resinous wood such as pine and spruce for indoor fires. They create creosote when burned that can cause a chimney fire.
Questions? Lehnhoff’s Supply is Here to Help
If you still have more questions about how to best purchase firewood for the remaining of the winter or upcoming spring season, the trained professionals at Lehnhoff’s Supply are here to help you.
Find us at 2708 Belair Road, Fallston, MD 21047 and give us a call at 410-510-7646. For tips, tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!
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