Got some leftover pine wood lying around? Don’t even think about tossing it or letting it rot! Pine is actually a fantastic choice for firewood. If you’re looking to stock up for your fireplace, this common tree is a resource you definitely want to take advantage of.
What You Should Know About Burning Pine
Before you start tossing pine logs into the hearth, there are a few characteristics you should keep in mind. Its burn rate and overall behavior in the fire are unique. Because pine is naturally resinous (it’s got that sticky sap!), you need to be a bit careful, especially with open fireplaces. If the wood is particularly pitchy, the fire can flare up quickly, which can be a bit of a safety hazard if you aren’t prepared.
The Pros of Pine Firewood:
- It catches fire quickly and provides a cozy, immediate heat.
- It gives off that classic, amazing evergreen scent.
- It’s famous for that nostalgic “crackle and pop” sound.
- Pine dries out (seasons) much faster than hardwoods.
The Cons of Pine Firewood:
- It has a lower BTU (heating value) than hardwoods like oak or hickory.
- The resin can cause sparks to “spit” or fly out of the fire.
A Quick Warning on Open Fireplaces
Since pine is loaded with resin, those little pockets of sap can explode when heated, sending sparks flying. In an open fireplace without a screen, this can be a real fire hazard for your rug or living room floor. However, if you’re using it for a backyard bonfire and everyone is sitting at a safe distance, that popping and crackling actually adds a lot of charm to the night! Just make sure you know what to expect before you light it up.
How to Process and Store Your Pine
Ready to prep your pine for the winter? Here are a few tips to make it easy. When you prune or cut the tree, try to pick sections that are relatively clear of heavy knots. This will make your life much easier when it’s time to split it, though generally, pine splits like a dream.
One of the best things about pine is that you don’t have to wait forever to use it after cutting. While hardwoods can take two years to dry, pine is usually seasoned and ready to go after just one year of proper storage. Once it’s dry, you’re all set to enjoy the quick warmth and great aroma of this classic firewood.