Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Choosing the right home heating appliance isn’t just about heat output. It’s about how you want to live, maintain, fuel, and enjoy your fire. Two of the most popular options for secondary or whole-home heat are wood stoves and pellet stoves. Both deliver powerful, efficient warmth, but they differ in fuel type, maintenance, convenience, cost, and daily experience.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your home (and your habits) are better suited for wood heat or pellet heat, this comparison will help you decide.

Let’s start with wood stoves.

Wood Stoves: The Traditional, Hands-On Heating Experience

Best for: Homeowners who enjoy real firewood, off-grid heating, and a classic flame.

Why People Choose Wood Stoves:

• Works during power outages (no electricity required unless using a blower)
•  Fuel can be inexpensive or free if you harvest or buy local wood
•  Produces a large, classic flame and radiant heat
•  Creates a rustic, traditional heating experience

Things to Consider:

• Requires splitting, stacking, seasoning, and hauling wood
• Needs more ash removal and chimney cleaning
• Temperature control is manual—not automated
• Higher clearances and hearth protection are often required

Wood Stove Lifestyle Fit:
You don’t mind hands-on maintenance, you have space to store firewood, and you love the look and feel of a real wood fire.

Pellet Stoves: Clean, Controlled, Push-Button Heat

Best for: Homeowners who want efficient heat with minimal effort and cleaner fuel handling.

Why People Choose Pellet Stoves:

• Operate with automatic ignition and temperature control
• Burns compressed pellets: cleaner, bagged, stored easily
• Produces steady, even heat output with thermostat control
• Very low emissions—most qualify for federal energy tax credits

Things to Consider:

• Requires electricity to run hopper, auger, and fans
• Pellets must be purchased (no DIY firewood option)
• Mechanical parts like augers and blowers need occasional servicing
• Flame appearance is smaller and more controlled than wood
  
  

Pellet Stove Lifestyle Fit:
You want high-efficiency heat without the mess of logs and ash, prefer hands-free temperature control, and don’t want to manually tend a fire throughout the day.

Cost, Efficiency & Environmental Notes

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose a wood stove if you:

• Value independence and off-grid capability
• Have room for firewood storage
• Enjoy the ritual of building and tending a fire

Choose a pellet stove if you:

• Want automatic heat with thermostat control
• Prefer clean, bagged fuel over wood handling
• Want high-efficiency performance with low emissions

Still unsure which stove matches your home and lifestyle? Our certified hearth experts can help you compare models, fuel availability, installation needs, and operating costs.

Call 888-418-0005 or email info@woodstovepro.com. We’re here to help you make the perfect choice for comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

When it comes to venting your wood stove, the type of stove pipe you choose makes a big difference in safety, performance, and efficiency. Homeowners often ask: “What’s the difference between double-wall and single-wall stove pipe—and which one do I need?”

Here’s a clear breakdown to help you make the right choice for your installation.

What Is Single-Wall Stove Pipe?

Single-wall stove pipe is made from one layer of heavy-gauge steel and is used to connect your wood stove to the chimney system within the same room. It’s affordable, durable, and radiates more heat into the living space—making it a great option when clearance and aesthetics allow.

However, single-wall pipe requires at least 18 inches of clearance from combustible materials (like walls, ceilings, and furniture). It also cools down faster, which can increase creosote buildup over time.

Best for: Open rooms with adequate clearances and homeowners looking for a cost-effective, high-heat option.

What Is Double-Wall Stove Pipe?

Double-wall stove pipe consists of two layers of steel with an air gap between them. This design helps keep the outer wall cooler while maintaining higher internal flue temperatures—improving draft and reducing creosote formation.

Because the exterior stays cooler, double-wall pipe can be installed with only 6 inches of clearance to combustibles, making it ideal for tighter installations or small rooms. It’s also more energy-efficient since it retains heat in the flue gases for better performance.

Best for: Homes with limited space, higher draft needs, or frequent wood stove use.

Key Differences Between Single and Double Wall Stove Pipe: at a Glance

Which One Should You Choose?

If your installation area has ample space and good airflow, single-wall pipe offers excellent heat radiation and lower upfront cost. But if your stove sits close to a wall or you want maximum safety and performance, double-wall stove pipe is worth the investment.

No matter which you choose, remember that stove pipe is for interior connections only—once your venting passes through a wall or ceiling, you must transition to Class A chimney pipe for proper insulation and safety.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between single-wall and double-wall stove pipe depends on your home’s layout, heating goals, and clearance requirements. If you’re unsure, our certified hearth experts can help you plan a venting system that meets UL standards and local building codes.

Contact us at info@woodstovepro.com or 888-418-0005 for personalized advice and top-rated venting components from trusted brands like DuraVent, Selkirk, and Metal-Fab.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Fireplaces bring warmth, comfort, and a cozy glow to your home—but if you have kids or pets, that same comfort can quickly turn into a safety concern. Whether you use a wood stove, gas fireplace, or electric insert, it’s important to take a few precautions to protect curious little hands (and paws) from burns, sparks, and smoke.

Here are my top tips for keeping your family—and your four-legged friends—safe around the fire.

1. Install a Fireplace Screen or Safety Gate

A sturdy fireplace screen or freestanding safety gate is the first line of defense. It prevents children and pets from getting too close to the flames or touching hot surfaces. Look for heat-rated mesh screens or gates that are tall and stable enough to withstand a nudge or a wagging tail.

For gas and electric units, keep in mind that glass fronts can reach over 400°F—hot enough to cause burns even when the fire looks calm. A screen barrier ensures safe distance and peace of mind.

2. Maintain a Clear Safety Zone

Create a three-foot “no-play zone” around the fireplace or stove. Teach kids that toys, blankets, and pet beds stay outside this area. For pets, consider using a hearth rug made of flame-retardant material to prevent accidents from sparks or ash.

3. Secure Fireplace Tools and Accessories

Tongs, pokers, and brushes can look like fun “toys” to little ones or chew targets for pets. Always store fireplace tools on a stable rack out of reach, and keep matches and lighters locked away. For gas fireplaces, use safety covers on switches or remote controls to prevent accidental ignition.

4. Never Leave the Fire Unattended

Even with barriers in place, never leave children or pets unsupervised when the fireplace is in use. A few seconds of distraction can lead to burns or tipping hazards. Make a habit of double-checking that fires are fully out—or that electric or gas units are turned off—before leaving the room or heading to bed.

5. Keep Safety Equipment Up to Date

Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly, and keep a fire extinguisher in the same room as your fireplace or stove. Test your detectors monthly and replace batteries as needed.

Warmth and Safety Go Hand in Hand

With a few thoughtful precautions, you can enjoy all the beauty and comfort of your fireplace without worry. From fireplace screens and gates to hearth pads and safety tools, WoodstovePro.com carries everything you need to protect your loved ones while keeping your home cozy.

Have questions about fireplace safety products or which accessories are best for your setup?

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Whether you’re heating with a wood stove, gas fireplace, pellet insert, or electric unit, the right fireplace accessories make your setup safer, cleaner, more efficient, and a whole lot more enjoyable. Some accessories help protect your floors and walls, others make fire-building and maintenance easier, and a few are just must-have upgrades for comfort and style.

Here are the Top 10 fireplace accessories every homeowner should consider this heating season:

1. Fireplace Screen or Spark Guard

A fireplace screen keeps sparks, burning embers, and popping wood inside the firebox—protecting flooring, furniture, and curious pets. Even if you already have glass doors, a mesh screen adds another layer of safety and airflow.

2. Heat-Resistant Fireplace Gloves

Whether you’re loading logs, adjusting a stove baffle, or clearing coals, heat-resistant gloves protect your hands and forearms from burns. Every wood stove owner should have a pair, and gas and pellet users benefit during maintenance.

3. Ash Vacuum or Ash Scoop

Regular ash cleanout keeps your fire burning efficiently. A metal scoop works for quick removal, while a fireplace-rated ash vacuum prevents ash dust from spreading through your home.

4. Cast Iron or Steel Fireplace Grate

A grate lifts wood off the firebox floor, improving airflow and helping fires burn hotter and longer. Choose heavy-duty cast iron for long-term durability and better heat output.

5. Hearth Pad or Floor Protector

If you own a freestanding wood stove, a certified hearth pad is a must. It protects flooring from sparks, coals, and radiant heat—and is required by code for many installations. Available in tile, stone, steel, and corner shapes.

6. Moisture Meter for Firewood

Burning unseasoned wood leads to smoky fires, creosote buildup, and reduced heat output. A handheld moisture meter lets you verify that your firewood is below 20% moisture for efficient, clean burning.

7. Log Carrier or Firewood Holder

A canvas, leather, or reinforced wood carrier saves trips outside and keeps dirt and bark off your floors. Pair it with an indoor log rack for clean storage right next to the fire.

8. Stovepipe Thermometer or Magnetic Flue Gauge

A stovepipe thermometer helps you burn in the ideal temperature range—typically 400°F–600°F for wood stoves. Too cool and you’ll build creosote; too hot and you risk damage to the stove or chimney.

9. Fireplace Tool Set

Tongs, poker, broom, and shovel—everything you need to safely tend the fire and maintain your firebox. Look for forged iron or steel sets for durability and stability.

10. Fireplace Bellow or Electric Blower

Bellows give wood stoves a clean start by feeding oxygen to the fire. For built-in fireplaces and inserts, a blower fan helps circulate heat into the room instead of letting it rise up the chimney.

Upgrade Your Hearth, Upgrade Your Comfort

Whether you're starting from scratch or improving your winter setup, these fireplace accessories will make your heating system run better, last longer, and feel more complete.

Need help choosing the right tools, hearth pad, or stove thermometer?Contact our experts at info@woodstovepro.com or 888-418-0005—we’re always happy to help you find the perfect accessories for your fireplace or stove.

By: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Choosing the right wood stove for your home is about more than looks—it’s about matching heat output to your house size and layout. Too small, and you’ll be chilly on cold nights; too large, and you’ll waste fuel and overheat the room. The key is to find a stove that delivers enough BTUs (British Thermal Units) for your space without overdoing it.

How Do I Choose the Right Wood Stove Size?

As a general rule, a home that’s well-insulated and about 1,000 square feet needs a stove rated for 25,000–30,000 BTUs. A medium home around 1,500–2,000 square feet often needs 35,000–50,000 BTUs, and larger or older homes may require 60,000 BTUs or more. Your insulation, ceiling height, and local climate all play a role, so it’s worth consulting a BTU calculator or your local NFI Certified Specialist to calculate the right range.

What Is a BTU and Why Does It Matter?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, and it measures heat output. One BTU equals the energy needed to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The BTU rating of a wood stove tells you how much heat it can produce. A higher number means more heating power—but that doesn’t necessarily mean better efficiency.

An oversized stove may force you to burn smaller fires or open windows to stay comfortable, which reduces home heating efficiency. A properly sized stove will burn hotter and cleaner, keeping emissions low and maximizing fuel use.

What Affects Wood Stove Performance?

Several factors influence wood stove performance. Here are some to consider:

• Insulation and window quality – Older homes lose heat faster and may need more BTUs.
• Ceiling height – High ceilings increase the volume of air to heat.
• Climate zone – Northern states need more BTUs than southern regions for the same square footage.
• Layout – Open floor plans allow heat to circulate; closed-off rooms may trap warmth.

How Can I Improve Heating Efficiency?

Beyond size, efficiency depends on stove technology and how you use it. Look for an EPA-certified wood stove with at least 75% efficiency. These models burn cleaner and reduce creosote buildup. Use only seasoned hardwood (like oak or maple) and keep your chimney clean for safe, efficient operation.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right wood stove involves balancing heat output, efficiency, and home design. Use a reliable BTU chart as your starting point, and when in doubt, reach out to a certified hearth professional. The right fit will keep your home warm, your energy use efficient, and your fires burning bright all winter long.

For help choosing or sizing your next wood stove, contact WoodstovePro.com at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A safe, efficient wood stove or fireplace system depends on more than just the appliance itself. You also need a properly functioning chimney pipe. Over time, even high-quality venting systems can wear out, corrode, or become unsafe. Replacing chimney pipe before a failure occurs isn’t just preventive maintenance - it’s a critical step in protecting your home from fire hazards, smoke leaks, and carbon monoxide issues.

Here are the five most common signs that it’s time to replace your chimney pipe:

1. Visible Rust, Corrosion, or Warping

Chimney pipe is exposed to extreme temperatures and byproducts of combustion. If you notice rusted seams, bubbling metal, discoloration, or warping, the pipe may no longer be structurally sound. Corrosion is especially common in older 430 stainless steel pipe or in systems burning high-moisture wood, coal, or oil. Once metal begins breaking down, replacement - not repair - is the safest option.

2. Creosote Buildup You Can’t Remove

A properly venting system should allow creosote to burn off or be cleaned during routine sweeping. If your pipe repeatedly accumulates thick, tar-like creosote that doesn’t fully clean out, it may indicate poor draft or interior liner damage. Since creosote is the number one cause of chimney fires, a failing pipe is not something to ignore.

3. Leaks, Smoke Backdrafting, or Strong Odors

If smoke enters the room when you open the stove door, or you notice a sour, creosote smell even when the stove isn’t running, your chimney pipe may be blocked, cracked, or improperly sealed. A chimney that no longer drafts correctly can also cause carbon monoxide to enter the home—one of the most serious signs something is wrong with the venting system.

4. Loose, Separated, or Damaged Joints

Chimney pipe is designed to lock together tightly with twist-lock or snap-lock sections. If you notice gaps between pipe sections, loose connections, or movement where the pipe meets the appliance collar or ceiling support box, that system is no longer up to code. A single loose joint can allow flames or hot gases to escape into framing, insulation, or attic spaces.

5. Your Pipe Is Not UL-Listed or No Longer to Code

Chimney standards have changed significantly in recent decades. Older pipe may be single-wall when Class A insulated pipe is required, or it may not meet today’s UL 103HT 2100°F safety rating. If your pipe was installed decades ago—or you’re unsure of the brand or rating—it may be safer (and insurance-compliant) to replace it with modern UL-listed Class A chimney.

When in Doubt, Replace Before You Risk It

Chimney pipe isn’t something to gamble with. If you’ve noticed one or more of these warning signs, it’s time to upgrade your system with certified Class A chimney pipe from trusted brands like DuraVent, Selkirk, Metal-Fab, or Security Chimneys.

Need help identifying the right replacement pipe? Contact our certified hearth professionals at info@woodstovepro.com or 888-418-0005 and we’ll walk you through sizing, compatibility, and installation planning.

Can I Use Duct Pipe for Wood Stoves?

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

At WoodstovePro.com, we receive tons of customer questions every year about safe wood stove installation and venting. In this article, we will be answering these questions. Let’s start with a common - and dangerous - question:

Can I Use Duct Pipe for Wood Stoves?

The short answer is no. You should never use duct pipe for a wood stove. Duct pipe is designed for low-temperature air movement (like HVAC systems), not for the extreme heat that wood stoves produce.

Wood stoves can reach temperatures of 400°F to 900°F or higher. Duct pipe, which is often galvanized steel, begins to break down under those conditions. When heated, galvanized coatings can release toxic fumes, and the thin metal can warp or fail, leading to smoke leaks or even fire hazards.

Instead, always use stove pipe or Class A chimney pipe - aka, materials specifically engineered to handle high temperatures safely and maintain proper clearances from combustibles.

What’s the Difference Between Duct Pipe and Stove Pipe?

It’s easy to confuse the two because they look similar at a glance.

• Duct pipe: Made for ventilation, typically thin, single-wall galvanized metal. It is not heat-rated for solid fuel use.
  
  
• Stove pipe (connector pipe): Made of heavy-gauge black steel or double-wall construction, designed for connecting your stove to a chimney system.
  
  
• Class A chimney pipe: Double- or triple-wall insulated pipe for venting smoke outside your home. It’s the only kind approved to pass through walls, ceilings, or roofs.

How Do I Know What Pipe My Stove Needs?

Each wood stove has specific venting requirements listed in the owner’s manual. If you’re unsure, check the model number and contact an NFI Certified Hearth Professional for help selecting compatible pipe. At WoodstovePro.com, we carry top-rated brands like DuraVent, Selkirk, Metal-Fab, and Security Chimneys—each offering pipe tested to UL103HT standards.

Do I need a chimney liner for my existing fireplace?

Yes, inserts require properly sized liners for safe draft and performance.

How far should my stove pipe be from the wall?

Typically, 18 inches for single-wall pipe, or as close as 6 inches for double-wall pipe (check your manufacturer’s manual).

Can I install my own stove?

Some people do, but hiring a certified installer ensures compliance with local codes and maintains your warranty.

The Takeaway

I hope this has cleared up some of your questions about stoves and pipes! Use the right pipe for the job to protect your home, your investment, and your family.

For expert advice on choosing the correct venting components or stove, contact WoodstovePro.com at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com. Our certified professionals are always happy to help.

Tax Credit Deadline is Dec. 31

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Good news for homeowners planning energy-saving home improvements! You could get a federal tax credit (Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit).

A tax credit is a reduction of your federal income tax. If you had taxes withheld, you may get a refund. If you owe taxes, it may reduce your tax liability.

The best news? A wood or pellet stove from WoodstovePro qualifies as an energy-saving improvement.

How Much is the Tax Credit Worth?

You can claim 30% of your cost, up to $2,000, if you buy an eligible wood-burning stove or pellet stove. The 30% includes the price of the stove and the cost to install it. You must have the unit installed by the Dec. 31st deadline to receive the credit.

To claim the tax credit, be sure the stove you are buying has the EPA certification. It must also have an HHV (Higher Heating Value) efficiency rating of 75% or more. This is important because a stove can have EPA Certification, and be very efficient, but not be at this 75% level.

What is EPA Certification?

The goal of EPA certification is to limit the amount of particulate matter (PM) a wood stove releases. The 2020 standards say a new wood burning unit should not release more than 2.5 grams per hour of particles. Learn more about wood stove efficiency at the EPA website.

An independent, accredited laboratory tests the stoves to be sure a wood or pellet stove is following the guidelines. You can verify a stove's certification status by checking its permanent EPA label or searching the EPA's database.

EPA-certified stoves produce less pollution, are more efficient, and are safer to use.

Keep Good Records

Be sure to have these records ready when tax time comes around. You will need these whether you do your own taxes or have a professional tax preparer handle them.

• Your receipt. This should have the date of purchase, the stove name and cost, and how much you paid for installation (if you had someone else install it).
• A copy of the Certification Statement. It confirms that the stove qualifies for the credit and is at least 75% efficient (HHV). This statement comes from the manufacturer.
• Form 5695 to file with your tax return to claim the credit. 

Wood Stoves

We have compiled a list of all the wood stoves on woodstovepro.com that qualify for the IRS tax credit. You can click directly from this document to the stove(s) you want to know more about.

Wood Stoves that qualify for the 30% (up to $2000) Tax Credit.

This list has been updated with 17 qualifying Drolet stoves as of Sept. 25. 

Pellet Stoves

We have done the same thing for our pellet stoves as well.

Pellet Stoves that qualify for the 30% (up to $2000) Tax Credit

Just a Reminder

WoodstovePro, and its employees or contractors, are not tax professionals. This article is to let you know about a great opportunity. Do not consider it tax advice, which should come from a professional.

Questions?

If you don't see the stove you want, or a brand you're looking for (like Vermont Castings), contact us at info@woodstovepro.com or call 888-418-0005. We can help you learn more about the tax credit, wood stoves, fireplaces, or other hearth products.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A gas fireplace is one of the most convenient and attractive ways to bring warmth and ambiance into your home. I have installed countless gas fireplaces and know firsthand how they can transform a space and a home. One push of a button, and boom - homeowners can enjoy clean, consistent flames without the work of burning wood. 

But before you buy a gas fireplace, it’s important to understand your options, how they work, and the key safety considerations.

Below, we answer the most common questions homeowners ask when choosing the right unit. Let’s get into it:

What are the main types of gas fireplaces?

Most gas fireplaces fall into two categories: direct vent and vent-free.
Both have advantages, but choosing the right one depends on local code, home layout, and your heating goals.

Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces

• Draw combustion air from outside
• Safely vent exhaust outdoors
• Offer excellent efficiency and indoor air quality
• Allowed in most jurisdictions

Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces

• Have no chimney or venting system
• Return heat directly into the room
• Operate with extremely clean combustion
• Are restricted or prohibited in some states
  
  

Which should I choose?
If indoor air quality and installation flexibility matter, direct vent is usually best. If you want maximum heat and simple installation—and local codes allow it—vent-free may be an option.

How energy-efficient is a gas fireplace?

Gas fireplaces can be extremely efficient, especially direct vent units. Because they use outside air for combustion and capture most of their heat before exhausting, many achieve 70–85%+ efficiency.

Vent-free units are even higher on paper because they do not vent heat outdoors, but homeowners should follow all gas fireplace safety guidelines and code requirements when considering them.

How safe are gas fireplaces?

Today’s gas fireplaces are built with multiple safety features, including:

• Oxygen depletion sensors (for vent-free units)
• Flame failure systems
• Tempered or ceramic safety glass
• Sealed fireboxes (for direct vent models)
• Properly engineered gas valves and igniters

When professionally installed and maintained, gas fireplaces are very safe. The biggest safety risks come from improper installation or user neglect, such as failing to have the unit inspected or misusing the appliance.

Do I need a chimney to install a gas fireplace?

Not necessarily. Direct vent fireplaces use a dual-wall pipe system that can run horizontally through a wall or vertically through a roof. Vent-free fireplaces require no venting at all.

This flexibility makes gas fireplaces ideal for homes without chimneys or for new constructions where adding a flue would be difficult.

Can a gas fireplace heat my whole home?

It depends on the model and layout of your home. Many fireplaces provide 20,000–40,000 BTUs, which is enough to heat large living areas. Some high-output models can act as a supplemental heat source for an entire floor.

If whole-home heating is your goal, choose a unit with:

• High BTU output
• A blower or fan kit
• Thermostat or remote control
• High-efficiency direct vent design

What maintenance does a gas fireplace require?

Even though gas burns cleanly, you should:

• Have the unit inspected annually
• Clean or replace glass and logs as recommended
• Ensure the venting system is clear
• Check the pilot assembly for dust accumulation
• Verify proper ignition

Routine maintenance improves efficiency and ensures gas fireplace safety throughout the heating season.

What should I consider before I buy a gas fireplace?

Before purchasing, think about:

• Your preferred type: direct vent vs vent-free
• Heat output (BTUs)
• Viewing style and flame appearance
• Room size and layout
• Installation costs
• Safety code requirements in your state
• Whether you want manual, remote, or thermostat controls

A hearth professional can help match your home’s needs to the right unit.

Final Thoughts

A gas fireplace offers the perfect combination of convenience, efficiency, and year-round comfort. Whether you're deciding between direct vent vs vent-free or exploring heating capabilities and safety features, understanding these basics will help you choose the right system for your home.

If you need help selecting or sizing a model, our certified team is here to assist. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Burning quality firewood makes a huge difference in how your fireplace or wood stove performs. Well-seasoned wood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently—while wet or “green” wood produces excess smoke, low heat output, and dangerous creosote buildup inside your chimney. If you want the best results from your stove or fireplace, knowing how to properly store and season firewood is essential.

Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare the wood for your fireplace the right way, with tips on moisture content, stacking, cover placement, airflow, and drying time.

Why Seasoned Wood Matters

Seasoning is the process of drying freshly cut firewood until it reaches the right moisture content for burning.

• Seasoned wood has a moisture content of 20% or less
• Green wood often exceeds 40–60% moisture

Wood with high moisture takes more energy to burn off the water inside the log, reducing heat output and creating more smoke. Quality seasoned wood burns hotter, ignites easier, and helps your fireplace run at peak efficiency.

How Long Does Firewood Take to Season?

Most hardwoods need 6–12 months to season properly, depending on the species, climate, and how well they’re stacked.

Fastest-drying woods include:

• Ash
• Maple
• Birch

Denser hardwoods like oak and hickory may take a full year or more to reach ideal moisture content.

Tip #1: Split Your Wood Early

Whole rounds take much longer to dry. Splitting your firewood into various sizes (typically 3–6 inches in diameter) dramatically increases airflow and speeds drying. Smaller pieces ignite faster, while larger logs provide sustained heat.

Tip #2: Stack for Maximum Airflow

Airflow is critical. When stacking wood for fireplace use, try:

• Elevating the wood off the ground (pallets work great)
• Leaving space between rows
• Facing cut ends toward the wind
• Using a crisscross pattern on the ends to improve stability and airflow

Avoid sealing the wood in tight piles—air needs to circulate.

Tip #3: Cover Only the Top, Not the Sides

The biggest mistake many homeowners make is fully wrapping their wood piles.
 Correct method:

• Cover only the top to protect against rain
• Leave the sides exposed for airflow

A simple tarp, metal sheet, or wood cover works perfectly to prevent excess moisture without trapping humidity.

Tip #4: Keep Firewood Off the Ground

Ground moisture is one of the fastest ways to ruin a good stack. Elevate your pile on:

• Pallets
• Concrete blocks
• Pressure-treated runners
• A wood rack

This prevents rot, improves airflow, and helps reduce insect activity.

Tip #5: Use a Moisture Meter

The best way to confirm your firewood moisture content is with a simple moisture meter.

• Aim for 20% or less
• Test from the inside of a fresh split (not the outside surface)

This ensures you’re burning true seasoned wood and not just logs dried on the outside.

Tip #6: Store Close to the House, but Not Against It

It’s tempting to stack wood right against your exterior wall, but that can attract insects and trap moisture. Keep stacks at least a foot away from your siding and use a smaller indoor rack to store just a day or two of wood at a time.

Final Thoughts

Properly storing and seasoning firewood is one of the simplest ways to improve your fireplace experience. Dry, well-seasoned wood offers hotter burns, cleaner flames, and less creosote—keeping your home warmer and your chimney safer.

If you have questions about choosing the right wood for fireplace use or want advice on stove performance, our certified hearth experts are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.