November 5, 2026, 4:33 am | Read time: 4 minutes
A crackling fireplace provides warmth and coziness on cold days. But before the wood ends up in the stove, there are a few things to consider. For the wood to burn cleanly and as efficiently as possible, it must be dry, untreated, and properly stored. There are also important considerations when lighting the fire and disposing of the ash.
What Kind of Firewood Is Suitable for the Fireplace?
Only dry, untreated wood should be used in a fireplace or wood stove. Painted, glued, or coated wood scraps, particle boards, and waste should not be burned. The user manual of the stove specifies which fuels are permitted.
Whether beech, oak, birch, spruce, or pine: The right wood for the fireplace is not solely about the type of wood. The heating values are relatively close to each other. However, softwood burns faster and needs to be replenished more often. The flame pattern and crackling can also play a role in determining which wood burns best.
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How Dry Must Firewood Be?
Firewood should have a residual moisture content of no more than 20 percent. Wet wood provides less heat and produces more smoke, soot, and fine dust. Deposits can also form in the chimney. Since moisture is difficult to assess from the outside, the residual moisture of the firewood should be checked. A moisture meter for wood provides a more accurate reading. For this, the wood is split and measured inside.
How to Properly Store Firewood?
A good storage place is dry, airy, and protected from rain. There should be at least ten centimeters of space between the wood stack and the ground. Distance from the back wall is also necessary to allow air circulation. A dense plastic tarp is unsuitable because moisture can accumulate underneath. A solid roof with open sides is better. Typical mistakes in storing firewood also include keeping it in a damp, poorly ventilated basement.
Related: How long must fresh firewood be stored to dry?
How Long Is Firewood Usable?
Properly stored firewood remains usable for several years. However, weather, moisture, and pests can reduce its quality outdoors. Slightly rotted wood may still burn but has a lower heating value. To minimize wood decay, older logs should be used first. Overly long storage can lead to a decline in the quality of the firewood.
Check Wood Before Burning
Wood stacks provide a sheltered refuge for animals. Bats, in particular, can hibernate between the logs. Therefore, stored firewood should be thoroughly checked before bringing it into the house or stove. Discovered animals should not be disturbed. Regional rescue centers can help with injured or accidentally awakened bats.
Common Mistakes When Heating with Wood
Wet wood, unsuitable log sizes, too much fuel, and incorrect air supply impair combustion. A dirty chimney can also reduce heating performance and safety. Many mistakes in heating with wood occur during ignition. The top-down method is recommended: Larger logs at the bottom, with kindling and small split firewood on top. When adding more wood, only a few logs should be placed in the firebox.
Why Newspapers Don’t Belong in the Fireplace
Newspapers, magazines, and printed cartons are not suitable fuels. Burning them can produce fine dust, tar, and other pollutants. Those who burn old newspapers in the fireplace also risk a fine. Approved fire starters and untreated kindling are better for ignition.
How Harmful Is Heating with Wood?
Burning wood produces air pollutants and fine dust. The climate balance is not automatically positive. Key factors include the source of the wood and whether felled trees are replaced. The environmental and health impact of heating with wood also depends on the fireplace, fuel, and operation. Dry, untreated wood and clean combustion reduce avoidable emissions.
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Is It Permissible to Collect Firewood in the Forest?
Loose wood cannot simply be taken. Often, a collection or gathering permit from the municipality or forestry office is required. Rules vary by region. Those wishing to collect firewood in the forest should therefore check with the relevant authority beforehand. Cutting down live trees or branches is prohibited. In protected areas and during certain closed seasons, collecting deadwood may also be prohibited.
How to Properly Dispose of Fireplace Ash?
Fireplace ash should be completely cooled before being placed in the trash. Even seemingly cold ash can still contain embers and cause fires. Therefore, ash from the fireplace should be properly disposed of and first cooled in a sealable metal container. Only then can it be packed into the black bin.