What Are The Best Woods for Fireplace Comfort

Those of us with wood-burning fireplaces or stoves here in Coffee County and across the Tennessee Valley are spoiled with the variety of wood species that grow in our neck of the woods. Most folks have a favorite wood for the season, but did you know that some are better to burn than others? In this article, we’ll explore the best woods for fireplace comfort, along with some tips on throttling the temperature to your liking.

Best Local Hardwoods to Burn in the Fireplace

The Southern Middle Tennessee and Tennessee Valley regions are known for their abundant forests. Here are some of the best hardwoods to burn in your fireplace, along with their approximate heat values expressed in British Thermal Units (BTUs):

Oak

Oak is a dense, slow-burning wood that produces high heat and a long burn time. It emits an earthy, sweet fragrance. 24-28 million BTUs per cord.

Hickory

Hickory is another excellent choice for fireplace fuel. It burns hot and produces a long-lasting fire with a pleasant smoky aroma. 26-32 million BTUs per cord.

Maple

Maple, a Tennessee favorite, is a versatile hardwood that brings a comforting warmth to your home. It burns well in fireplaces, producing moderate heat and a pleasant, sweet aroma. It’s an excellent choice for taking the chill out of the air while enjoying its ambient effect. 23-27 million BTUs per cord.

Beech

Beech is a slow-burning hardwood that produces a steady heat output. It’s a good option for long, cozy evenings by the fire. It also has a clean burn with minimal smoke. 22-26 million BTUs per cord.

Ash

Ash is another local favorite. It is a dense hardwood that burns cleanly and efficiently, making it a good choice for those looking for a reliable and consistent heat source. It produces a light, mild aroma. 24-28 million BTUs per cord. The BTU values provided are estimates and can vary depending on the specific type of wood, its moisture content, and other factors.

Softwoods

While softwoods like pine and spruce are readily available, they burn quickly and produce less heat than hardwoods. They also tend to create more creosote buildup in your chimney.

Season and store your wood properly

To ensure optimal burning, season your firewood for at least six months before using it. Seasoning is the process of drying the wood, which reduces the moisture content, resulting in a hotter and cleaner burn. Store your seasoned firewood in a dry, ventilated area to prevent dampness. By choosing high-quality hardwoods and following proper storage and burning practices, you can enjoy a warm and efficient fireplace in your Tennessee Valley home.

Using Your Damper for Temperature Control

The fireplace damper is a crucial component for controlling the heat output from your fireplace.

Open the damper: To start a fire or increase the heat output, open the damper fully. Opening the damper allows oxygen to reach the flames, fueling the fire and producing more heat.

Close the damper partially: Once the fire is burning and you want to maintain a steady heat, close the damper partially. It will restrict the airflow, slowing down the combustion process and reducing the heat output.

Close the damper completely: When you’re finished using the fireplace or want to extinguish the fire completely, close the damper entirely. Doing so will help smother the flames by cutting off the oxygen supply.

Safety Tips

• When to close the damper: Always ensure the damper is closed when the fireplace is not in use to prevent drafts and heat loss.
• Avoid excess smoke: If you notice excessive smoke or a smoky smell, it might be a sign that the damper is not closed correctly or that the fire is not burning efficiently. Excessive smoke can be a sign of poor ventilation, which can lead to a buildup of harmful gases like carbon monoxide. If you notice this, it’s important to address the issue immediately and consider seeking professional help.

Chimney Inspection & Cleaning near me

Before you light your fireplace or stove, it’s crucial to get a professional chimney inspection and cleaning. Regular maintenance can save you from costly repairs and even prevent a fire. Click here to schedule an appointment online with a Certified Chimney Professional . You can trust our safe, reliable, and efficient service for the Tennessee Valley region since 2000.