Hello, neighbors in Arnold! The leaves are changing colors, and the air is getting cooler. Winter is on its way, and there’s nothing like a warm, cozy fire to keep you comfortable. To enjoy those fires, you need good firewood and a safe, efficient stove or fireplace. We’re here to share some tips to help you get ready with the best Arnold firewood.

Choosing the Right Type of Arnold Firewood

Not all firewood is the same. The kind of wood you burn can make a big difference in how warm your home gets and how long the fire lasts.

Hardwoods for Long-Lasting Heat

• Oak: Around Arnold, oak is the most popular hardwood. Oak burns slowly and produces a lot of heat, making it perfect for those long winter nights.
• Almond: Almond wood is another good option. It burns hot and lasts a long time.

Softwoods for Starting Fires

• Pine and Cedar: The most common softwoods in our area are pine and cedar. They light easily and smell wonderful, but they don’t produce as much heat as hardwoods.

For the best results, we recommend using oak for your main fire and adding softwoods like pine or cedar to help get the fire started. When buying Arnold firewood, make sure to choose the right mix for your needs.

How Firewood Is Measured

When buying firewood in Arnold, you’ll hear terms like “cord” or “face cord.” Knowing what these mean will help you get the right amount of wood.

• Cord: A large stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. That’s 128 cubic feet of wood!
• Face Cord: This stack is also 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the logs are shorter, usually about 16 inches deep. This is about one-third of a full cord.

Some people use the word “rick,” which can mean the same as a face cord, but it can vary. Always ask the seller exactly how much wood you’re getting when you buy Arnold firewood.

Checking If Firewood Is Properly Seasoned

“Seasoned” wood has been dried out so it burns well. Freshly cut wood, called “green” wood, is too wet. Burning green wood can make a lot of smoke and cause problems in your chimney.

Here’s how to tell if wood is seasoned:

• Look at the Color: Seasoned wood is usually darker, with gray or brown ends.
• Check for Cracks: Dry wood often has cracks or splits at the ends.
• Feel the Weight: Seasoned wood is lighter because it has less water.
• Knock Two Pieces Together: If it sounds hollow, it’s likely dry. A dull thud means it’s still wet.

You can also use a moisture meter to check. Wood should have a moisture content of 20% or less.

Burn Only the Right Materials

It’s important to burn only wood in your fireplace or wood stove. Never burn things like newspapers, magazines, mail, or cardboard. These materials can cause big flames that are hard to control and may release harmful chemicals. It’s okay to use small amounts of approved fire starters to help get your fire going.

Modern Wood Stoves and Inserts Make a Difference

Using good firewood is important, but so is having the right stove or fireplace. Modern wood stoves and inserts are much more efficient than older models. They burn wood more completely, which gives you more heat and less smoke. This means you use less wood and save money in the long run.

An efficient wood stove or insert can:

• Keep Your Home Warmer: Get more heat from the wood you burn.
• Reduce Smoke and Emissions: Better for the environment and your health.
• Save Money: Use less wood and lower your heating bills.

If you’re thinking about upgrading, we’re happy to help you find the right stove or insert for your home.

Watch Out for Dishonest Practices When Buying Arnold Firewood

Most wood sellers are honest, but some might try to trick you. Here are things to watch for:

• Short Loads: Make sure you’re getting the amount you paid for. Remember the measurements of a cord and face cord.
• Green Wood Sold as Seasoned: Some sellers might say their wood is dry when it’s not. Use the tips above to check.
• Mixed Wood Types: If you pay for hardwood like oak, make sure you’re not getting softwood mixed in.

Tips to Avoid Problems

• Ask Questions: Don’t be shy! Ask the seller how long the wood has been drying and what types of wood are included.
• Inspect the Wood: Look at the wood before you buy. If possible, watch it being loaded.
• Get a Receipt: This should show the amount and type of wood you bought.

Stay Warm and Cozy This Winter with Arnold Firewood

We hope these tips help you find the best Arnold firewood and keep your home warm this winter. Remember, having the right wood and a modern, efficient stove or insert makes all the difference. If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to stop by our shop. We’re always here to help our neighbors in Arnold enjoy the season safely.

Stay warm, friends!