Firewood News & insights
Welcome to our News & Insights. This is where we share straight-talking advice about firewood, stoves and keeping your home warm, alongside updates from here in the Ribble Valley. Whether you’re wondering is birch good firewood, how to stack your logs properly, or just want to hear what we’ve been up to, you’ll find it all here.

Hardwood vs Softwood: Which is Best for Firewood?
When it comes to firewood, people often ask us about hardwood vs softwood. Customers want to know: What are hardwoods? Are they really better than softwoods? What’s the best type of wood to burn in my stove or fire pit? The truth is, both hardwood and softwood will burn, but they behave very differently in a fire. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between soft and hard wood, how each performs when burned, and why most people choose kiln dried hardwood logs for reliable, clean heat. What Are Hardwoods? In simple terms, hardwoods come from broadleaf, usually deciduous trees (like oak, ash, beech, and birch). These trees grow slower, so their wood is denser and heavier. That extra density is what makes hardwoods the

How Do Drying Kilns for Firewood Work?
If you’ve ever wondered why kiln dried logs burn so much better than a heap of freshly cut wood, the answer lies in the drying kilns for firewood. These chambers pull the moisture out of timber, allowing it to light easier, burn hotter, and produce far less smoke. In this guide we’ll explain the how a firewood drying kiln works, why it’s better than seasoning outdoors, and what that means when you buy your next load of logs. Why Firewood Needs Drying Freshly cut wood (sometimes called “green wood”) can contain up to 50% water. Try to burn that in your stove, and you’ll create a smoky, inefficient fire that wastes most of the heat on boiling off water instead of warming your room. That’s

How to Light a Fire: A Complete Guide
There’s an art to a good fire. Whether it’s the stove in your front room on a cold Lancashire night, the wood burner in the garden, or a fire pit for a summer evening, knowing how to light a fire properly makes all the difference. Do it right, and it’s quick, clean, and satisfying. If you do it wrong, you end up with a lot of smoke, wasted logs, and frustration. At Ribble Valley Log Supplies, we’ve been working with timber for years. We know which wood catches fire easy, which ones burn hot, and which fire lighting accessories save you a world of hassle. This step by step guide to lighting pulls together our best firewood insights, so that you can light any fire

Beautifying Your Hearth: The Allure of Decorative Fireplace Logs
In the world of interior design, the fireplace often serves as a focal point of the living space, offering warmth and a cozy ambiance. However, its aesthetic potential is frequently overlooked. This is where decorative fireplace logs come into play, transforming an ordinary fireplace into a stunning visual element that enhances the overall decor of your home. The Charm of Decorative Fireplace Logs Decorative fireplace logs are not just any logs; they are carefully selected and often treated to serve as a permanent fixture in your fireplace, whether it’s in use or not. These logs can be natural wood, kiln-dried for minimal moisture content, or crafted from ceramic and other materials to mimic the look of real wood while being suitable for gas fireplaces. Styles

What is the Best Type of Wood to Use for Firewood?
Choosing the best type of wood for firewood is essential for efficient heating and enjoyable fires. Different woods offer various benefits and drawbacks, making some more suitable for specific needs than others. Hardwoods Softwoods Factors to Consider Conclusion The best wood for firewood depends on your specific needs. If you need long-lasting heat, hardwoods like oak or maple are excellent. For easier ignition and shorter burns, softwoods like pine and cedar are more suitable. Always consider your local availability and specific heating requirements when choosing your firewood. Check out our comprehensive Firewood Guide!

How Long Will Kiln Dried Wood Last Outside? – A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Kiln Dried Wood Kiln dried wood is a popular choice for firewood due to its low moisture content, typically below 20%, which enables it to burn efficiently and cleanly. This is achieved through a controlled drying process in a kiln, which removes moisture more effectively than traditional air drying. Longevity of Kiln Dried Wood Outdoors When it comes to storing kiln dried wood outdoors, several factors influence its longevity: Estimated Lifespan While there’s no definitive answer, properly stored kiln dried wood can last for several years without significant degradation in quality. The key is to ensure it remains dry and is protected from direct contact with soil or water. Tips for Maximizing Lifespan Conclusion Kiln dried wood is an excellent choice for long-lasting firewood,