It’s starting to get chilly out there! As the crackling warmth of a fireplace starts to fill the air, there's something undeniably comforting about the dancing flames fueled by perfectly split firewood. Yet, behind this cosy scene lies the skilful craft of firewood splitting – a task that requires the right tools, techniques, and a commitment to safety and efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned woodsman or a beginner looking to hone your skills, The Firewood Company has created the perfect guide to provide you with everything you need to know about firewood splitting. PLUS: the top questions answered about ensuring you are prepared for this winter season.
Before delving into the art of splitting firewood, having the right tools at your disposal is essential. The axe is the primary tool for splitting firewood, but other options include a maul, a wedge and sledgehammer, or a hydraulic log splitter for larger volumes. Choose a tool that suits your strength, experience, and the size of the wood you'll be splitting. Suppose you are enlisting a professional, AKA your local firewood supplier. In that case, it’s always a good tip to let them know the size of your firebox so you will only be splitting wood for kindling purposes.
Safety Precautions for Firewood Splitting
Safety should always be the top priority when splitting firewood, regardless of whether you are a professional or a newbie. Here are some essential safety precautions to keep in mind:
Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, protective eyewear, and sturdy footwear to protect against flying wood chips and potential injuries.
Ensure a clear and level workspace, free from obstacles and distractions, to minimise the risk of accidents.
Maintain a firm and stable stance while swinging the axe or maul, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart, and your body centred over the wood.
Avoid overreaching or swinging the tool above shoulder height to prevent strain or loss of control.
Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, safe from the splitting area to avoid accidents.
Techniques for Efficient Wood Splitting
Now that you're equipped with the right tools and safety precautions let's dive into the techniques for efficient firewood splitting:
Choose the Right Wood - Start with seasoned hardwoods like gum and macrocarpa, which split more easily than softer woods like pine. However, if you are splitting wood for kindling purposes – remember that pine is the best to get that good bed of embers, and your fire started quickly.
Create The Perfect Kindling - Begin by splitting smaller pieces of wood into kindling using a hatchet or small axe. Kindling should be dry and thin to ignite quickly and easily. The best wood for any kindling is well-seasoned softwoods – think pine and Douglas fir.
Aim for the Grain - When splitting larger logs, identify the natural grain and aim to split along it to make the process smoother and more efficient.
Use Proper Form - Hold the axe or maul near the end of the handle with one hand and near the head with the other for better control and power. Swing the tool in a controlled arc, focusing on accuracy rather than brute force.
Splitting Techniques - Experiment with different splitting techniques, such as the traditional "overhand" swing or the "underhand" swing, to find what works best for you and the type of wood you're splitting.
Rotate the Wood - As you split the wood, rotate it regularly to expose different angles and maximise your chances of achieving clean, even splits.
Stay Sharp - Keep your axe or maul properly sharpened to ensure clean cuts and reduce the risk of glancing blows or deflection.
Mastering the art of firewood splitting and chopping is both a skill and a labour of love. By selecting the right tools, prioritising safety, and employing efficient techniques, you can transform raw logs into a ready supply of firewood that fuels cosy nights by the fire. Whether you're a seasoned firewood splitter or a beginner embarking on this timeless craft, follow these tips to unlock the full potential of your firewood-splitting endeavours.
How to Create the Perfect Kindling
Kindling is the foundation for a successful fire, igniting quickly and efficiently to get the flames going. To create the perfect kindling:
Start with small, dry pieces of wood, preferably from softwoods like pine or Douglas fir.
Break or chop these pieces into thin, uniform strips or small pieces using a hatchet or small axe.
Arrange the kindling in a loose, crisscross pattern for optimal airflow and ignition.
How To Choose the Best Firewood to Start a Fire
When starting a fire, choosing firewood that ignites easily and burns consistently is crucial. Softwoods like pine and Douglas fir are excellent for starting fires due to their high resin content, making them highly combustible. These woods produce a quick, hot flame that helps ignite larger logs more effectively.
How to Select the Best Firewood for Long-Lasting Heat
For long-lasting heat and a sustained burn, hardwoods are the preferred choice. Hardwoods, such as gum and macrocarpa, are dense and have a high energy content, resulting in a slow and steady burn. These woods produce more heat and embers/coals, making them ideal for heating larger spaces or maintaining a fire for extended periods – cue the long nighttime burn.
How to Source the Best Firewood
When sourcing firewood, it's essential to prioritise quality and sustainability. Look for reputable local suppliers (AKA The Firewood Company) who offer seasoned firewood that has been properly dried and stored. Seasoned firewood burns more efficiently, produces less smoke, and reduces the risk of buildup in chimneys. Avoid purchasing green or unseasoned firewood, as it contains excess moisture and can be difficult to ignite and maintain a fire.
Why Local Firewood Suppliers Are Best
Local suppliers are often the best option for sourcing firewood due to their proximity and knowledge of the local climate and wood types. By purchasing from local suppliers, you support the local economy, reduce transportation emissions, and have access to freshly harvested, high-quality firewood that is well-suited to your region's climate and needs.
How to Ensure You Have Enough Firewood
To ensure you have enough firewood to last through the season, it's essential to plan ahead and estimate your usage based on factors such as frequency of use, size of the fire pit or fireplace, and climate conditions. Stockpile firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area, and consider purchasing a surplus to account for unexpected needs or fluctuations in demand.
Why You Should Never Burn Wet or Unseasoned Firewood
Burning wet or unseasoned firewood poses several risks and drawbacks. Damp or unseasoned firewood contains:
Excess moisture.
Resulting in inefficient combustion.
Increased smoke production.
There is a higher risk of buildup in chimneys.
Additionally, wet wood produces less heat, creating unpleasant odours and sizzling sounds when burned. Always use seasoned firewood that has been adequately dried and stored to ensure a safe and efficient fire.