Different Types Of Wood You Should Never Burn

When using firewood to warm your home this winter, it is important to use the right type of wood. Just because a piece of wood can burn when lit does not mean that it is safe to use. For the warmest and cleanest fires, you should steer clear of the following types of wood.

Wet wood

You should avoid burning wet wood. If a piece of wood is unseasoned or wet, it will not burn efficiently. Wet wood has high moisture content and this inhibits the combustion process of the wood, meaning the wood will not be converted into heat efficiently. When you burn wet wood, it will release a lot of unburned particulate matter into the air. The wood may produce some heat but its performance will be inferior to a seasoned piece of wood. You should keep in mind that all wood contains some moisture. However, if a piece of wood has a very high moisture content, then you should avoid burning it in your fireplace.A lot of moisture in wood can contribute to the dangerous build-up of creosote. This provides a poor burning experience and can lead to large combustions.

Softwood

Softwood has a very high resin content. You should therefore avoid burning it. Softwood trees are evergreen and they reproduce by dropping cones. While different types of softwood trees have different features, they have more resin compared to hardwood. Avoid softwood firewood delivery services because burning softwood will result in the production of thick, dark smoke that will pollute your house and clog your chimney.

Rotten wood

A lot of people burn seasoned wood in their fireplaces. However, seasoned wood can start rotting when exposed to water. If a piece of wood is rotted then you should avoid burning it. Rotted wood is less dense compared to unrotten wood. With the lower density, it will not produce as much heat as unrotten wood when burned. Rotting occurs from exposure to moisture and water.

When wood becomes saturated with high water content, it will start to decompose. The decomposition process is known as rotting. With time, the rotten wood will degrade into nothing. If you discover a piece of wood is rotten, it is because of the high moisture content in it. Whether it is softwood or hardwood, you should avoid burning rotten wood in your fireplace. Its high moisture content and low density make it a poor choice for burning in your fireplace compared to high-quality wood. If you discover rotten wood, place it outside to decompose naturally or toss it in the trash.

Mouldy wood

You should also avoid burning mouldy firewood. Mould is found virtually everywhere, including both outdoor and indoor environments. Different types of moulds exist and they require moisture, heat, oxygen and food to thrive. Unfortunately, wood is a good source of food for mould. So, when mould spores land on wood, they will start feasting on it if the wood is wet. Choosing dry hardwood can prevent the growth of mould.