When it comes to burning firewood, using properly dried wood is essential. Wet or green wood can be difficult to ignite, produce more smoke and creosote buildup, and burn inefficiently. This is why it’s important to know how long it takes for firewood to properly dry before using it in your fireplace or wood stove.
Several factors can affect the drying time of firewood, including the type of wood, the size of the pieces, the moisture content when cut, and the drying conditions. Hardwoods such as oak and maple generally take longer to dry compared to softwoods like pine and spruce. Smaller pieces of wood will dry faster than larger logs. The ideal moisture content for firewood is around 20% for efficient burning.
Firewood Drying Time Chart
Here is a general guideline for how long it takes for firewood to properly dry based on the type of wood:
- Softwoods (pine, spruce): 6-12 months
- Hardwoods (oak, maple): 12-24 months
It’s important to stack your firewood in a well-ventilated area with good airflow and protection from rain and snow. You can also use a firewood moisture meter to check the moisture content of your wood before burning it.