What Are The Best Woods for Fireplace Comfort

Did you know that you can manage the heat in your fireplace by choosing a different type of firewood? That’s because some woods burn hotter than others. It’s best to use seasoned hardwoods, which burn more efficiently and produce less smoke and creosote. By choosing the best firewood, you’re not only ensuring a comfortable fire but also enhancing the safety of your fireplace with this sustainable heat source. Here are the best woods for fireplace comfort in Pennsylvania.

Softwood Vs. Hardwood

Different wood species burn at varying temperatures. Softwoods, like pine and fir, are generally less dense than hardwoods. They tend to burn quickly with a hot, fast flame, but they also burn through quickly and produce more smoke and creosote. It makes them less ideal for sustained heat and can increase the risk of chimney fires. 

On the other hand, hardwoods like Oak, Maple, and Hickory burn slower and hotter than softwoods. They produce less smoke and creosote, making them a more efficient and cleaner-burning option for fireplaces and stoves. While softwoods are best for kindling to start a fire, hardwoods are generally the preferred choice for long-lasting, efficient heat for fireplace comfort. Additionally, seasoned firewood – wood that’s been dried for at least a year, is crucial for optimal performance. It burns more completely, minimizes smoke, and reduces creosote buildup in your chimney.

Best Woods for Comfort

Always ensure your firewood is seasoned for optimal burning. Look for split logs with cracks along the grain and a light, dry feel. 

Low Heat: (22 M/BTUs per cord and under)

While less common for heating purposes, White Birch offers a beautiful, low-smoke burn that is well-suited when you just want a flickering fire and a fresh aromatic scent for ambiance.

Medium Heat: (23 – 24 M/BTUs per cord)

White Ash and Sugar Maple are ideal options for a cozy fire without overwhelming heat. Ash ignites easily and burns with a pleasant flame, while Sugar Maple provides a steady, moderate heat with a sweet aroma, perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere. However, it is more difficult to light.

High Heat: (25 M/BTUs per cord and higher)

When you crave intense warmth, Hickory and Oak reign supreme. At 27.7 M/BTUs per cord, Hickory boasts the highest British Thermal Unit content, producing a long-lasting, blazing fire – perfect for those bone-chilling nights. At 26.5 M/BTUs per cord, Oak burns slightly cooler than Hickory but offers a steady, dependable heat output with an earthy scent, making it another excellent choice. However, Hickory is more popular for its sweet, savory aroma.

Fireplace Safety 

To ensure optimal safety and performance of your fireplace, it is essential to have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year before lighting your first fire of the season. 

With the best firewood and proper fireplace maintenance, you can transform your space into a place of warmth and relaxation. So, cuddle up by the fire, enjoy the flickering flames, and relish your fireplace’s cozy comfort.

Allentown Chimney Sweep – Inspections – Cleaning – Repairs

If you reside in the Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton Metropolitan Area, Wells & Sons is your trusted provider of chimney and fireplace services. Contact Wells & Sons, a trusted locally owned and operated chimney professional serving the Lehigh Valley area for over 45 years.

We offer inspections, cleaning, repairs, and installations – ensuring your fireplace is safe, efficient, and ready to bring you warmth and comfort throughout the winter season. We proudly serve homeowners in Hazelton PA, Lebanon PA, Morgantown PA, Reading PA, and the surrounding Lehigh Valley region. Contact us at to book your appointment today.