The right selection of firewood is crucial for efficient and pleasant use of your fire pit in the garden or on the terrace. Not all types of wood are the same, and each offers its own advantages and properties. There are many factors to consider, from the burning time to the calorific value to the aromatic scent of the fire.
In this article, we'll take a look at the best types of wood for your fire pit. We will examine the properties of different types of wood, list their advantages and disadvantages, and give you practical tips for choosing and storing firewood.
Properties of firewood
Firewood for your fire pit can vary greatly in its properties depending on the type and quality of wood. It is important to understand these characteristics in order to choose the best firewood for your needs.
Here are some important characteristics to consider when choosing firewood:
Calorific value: The calorific value of wood indicates how much energy is released when burned. Types of wood with a higher calorific value produce more heat and burn longer. Hardwoods such as beech and oak generally have a higher calorific value than softwoods such as spruce or pine.
Moisture content: The moisture content of the wood has a significant influence on its burning properties. Fresh or damp wood burns less efficiently and produces more smoke. Dry wood with a moisture content below 20% burns cleaner and produces more heat. It is important to use dry wood to ensure efficient combustion.
Aroma and smell: Different types of wood produce different aromas and smells when burned. Some types of wood, such as apple or cherry, give the fire a pleasant scent that enriches the atmosphere in the garden or on the terrace. Other types of wood may produce a stronger smoke smell that may be less pleasant.
Burning time and ember formation: The burning time and the formation of long-lasting embers are important factors for the efficiency of a fire pit. Hardwoods tend to burn slower and produce hot embers that are ideal for grilling or cozy campfire evenings. Softwoods burn faster, but can also be a good choice for quick lighting.
Hardwood vs. softwood – what is the difference and what is suitable for what?
When choosing firewood for your fire pit, you will likely come across the distinction between hardwood and softwood. Both types of wood have their own advantages and disadvantages that need to be taken into account.
hardwood
Hardwood comes from deciduous trees and is characterized by its high density and strength. It burns slowly and creates a hot ember.
Advantages: Hardwood such as beech, oak or ash has a high calorific value and burns for a long time. It is well suited for cozy campfire evenings or for grilling.
Disadvantages: Hardwood can be more expensive than softwood and requires longer drying time. However, it is often the preferred choice for fire pits due to its excellent combustion properties.
softwood
Softwood comes from conifers and is generally less dense than hardwood. It burns faster and can produce more smoke.
Advantages: Softwood such as spruce, pine or fir is often cheaper and easier to obtain than hardwood. It is good for starting a fire quickly.
Disadvantages: Softwood generally has a lower calorific value and burns faster. It can also produce more smoke and may not be as suitable for longer fires as hardwood.
The best types of wood for fire pits
Choosing the right type of wood for your fire pit can have a big impact on your fire experience. Different types of wood offer different burning properties, aromas and embers that need to be taken into account. Below are some of the best types of wood for fire pits to help you find the perfect firewood for your needs.
beech
Beech wood is one of the most popular types of wood for fire pits due to its excellent combustion properties. It burns slowly and evenly, producing hot embers and leaving little ash behind. Beech wood also has a pleasant, mild scent that enriches the fire experience.
Oak
Oak wood is known for its high density and strength, making it an excellent choice for fire pits. It burns slowly and creates a long-lasting ember that is ideal for grilling or cozy campfire evenings. Oak wood has a strong, aromatic scent that adds a special touch to the fire.
Bait
Ash wood is another popular type of wood for fire pits due to its good burning properties and pleasant scent. It burns evenly and creates a hot glow that lasts a long time. Ash wood is well suited for various applications, from cozy fire evenings to grilling.
birch
Birch wood is known for its quick combustibility and bright, crackling fire. It is particularly suitable for lighting a fire and creates a light, pleasant glow. Birch wood also has a characteristic scent that enriches the fire experience.
maple
Maple is a versatile type of wood that works well for fire pits. It burns slowly and produces an even glow, ideal for cooking or cozy campfire evenings. Maple wood has a mild, pleasant scent that completes the fire experience.
Special types of wood for special requirements and occasions
Sometimes you look for special types of wood for special occasions or atmospheres that make the fire experience even more unique. Here are some types of wood that are suitable for specific requirements and can bring a very special touch to your fire pit:
Fruit woods (apple, cherry, pear)
Fruit woods such as apple, cherry or pear are known for their aromatic qualities, which give the fire a wonderful scent. These types of wood produce a gentle, sweet aroma that is perfect for cozy evenings outdoors or romantic campfire atmosphere.
Softwoods (spruce, pine, fir)
Softwoods such as spruce, pine or fir are fast-burning types of wood that are ideal for starting a fire. They produce a lively flame and crackling embers that create a cozy atmosphere. These types of wood are particularly suitable for short fires or lighting charcoal.
Citrus and exotic woods (cedar, cypress, citrus trees)
Citrus and exotic woods such as cedar, cypress or citrus trees offer unique flavors and scents that take the fire experience to a new level. These types of wood produce an intense, spicy aroma that is ideal for special occasions or festive fire hours.
eucalyptus
Eucalyptus wood is known for its refreshing scent and antibacterial properties. It produces a clean burn and a pleasant, refreshing scent that enlivens the fire experience. Eucalyptus wood works well for long fires or relaxing outdoor meditation sessions.
Palmenholz
Palm wood is an exotic wood that brings a unique, tropical atmosphere to your fire pit. It produces a warm, soothing glow and a gentle, sweet scent that makes the fire experience particularly pleasant. Palm wood is ideal for relaxing evenings on the beach or in the garden.
Tips for storing and drying firewood
An important aspect of preparing for cozy outdoor fire evenings is not only the right choice of firewood, but also proper storage and drying. But in addition to pure functionality, aesthetic aspects can also play a role. In line with this, SGADN offers a selection of visually appealing firewood racks that not only serve to store and dry your firewood, but also represent a stylish addition to your terrace or garden.
These firewood racks are not only functional, but also aesthetically designed to enhance the experience of a fire bowl or wood stove. With different designs and materials, they adapt perfectly to your individual style and needs.
Take a look through ours Shop category for firewood racks and discover the diverse options for storing your firewood in a stylish and practical way.
