If you landed here from Google, you’re likely pondering the question, “Is cedar good firewood?” Well, you’re in the right place to find out! Let’s dive into what makes cedar unique and whether it’s a good fit for your fireplace or campfire.
Understanding Cedar Wood
Cedar is a type of coniferous tree, found in various parts of the world, each with its own distinct characteristics. Most commonly, you’ll come across varieties like Western Red Cedar or Eastern White Cedar. Known for its rich aroma, cedar wood has been used for centuries in various ways, from building materials to furniture.
What sets cedar apart is its high oil content, which gives it a distinct, pleasant smell and natural insect-repelling properties. These oils also impact how cedar burns when used as firewood. But does that make cedar a good choice for your fire? Let’s dig a little deeper to find out.
Cedar as Firewood: Pros and Cons
When it comes to burning cedar, there are both advantages and drawbacks. Your decision will largely depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
Pros of Using Cedar as Firewood
- Burns Hot: Cedar wood has a good heat output. It burns hot, which makes it great for creating a warm and inviting fire.
- Easy to Split: Due to its straight grain, cedar is relatively easy to split compared to other types of wood, making it a good choice if you’re preparing your own firewood.
- Pleasant Smell: One of the standout features of cedar is its unique, pleasant aroma when burnt. This can add an extra sensory dimension to your fire experience.
Cons of Using Cedar as Firewood
- Pops and Crackles: The high oil content in cedar can lead to a lot of popping and crackling when burnt, which could potentially throw sparks. If not managed properly, this could be a safety concern.
- Burns Quickly: While cedar does burn hot, it also burns relatively quickly. If you’re looking for long-lasting, slow-burning fires, cedar might not be your first choice.
As you can see, cedar has its own set of qualities that can either enhance or hinder your fire-making experience. It’s about understanding these and making an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Safety Considerations When Burning Cedar
While the popping and crackling of cedar can add to the ambiance of your fire, it’s essential to be aware of safety precautions to prevent any potential fire hazards. Here’s what you need to know:
Use a Fireplace Screen
Just as we discussed in the previous post about firewood popping, a fireplace screen can help catch sparks that may be thrown when the cedar pops and crackles. This is especially important if you have flammable materials close to your fireplace or are enjoying a fire in an open area outdoors.
Avoid Using Cedar in Wood Stoves
Because cedar tends to crackle and pop, it might not be the best choice for wood stoves, especially those with glass doors. The sparks could potentially cause damage.
Burn Cedar in Moderation
If you love the aroma of burning cedar but are concerned about the sparks, consider mixing cedar with other types of wood. That way, you’ll get the best of both worlds—the fragrance of cedar and the steadier burn of other hardwoods.
What’s the Best Use Case for Cedar Firewood?
As we’ve explored, cedar has its strengths and weaknesses as firewood, which means it’s better suited for certain situations than others. Here’s when you might want to consider using cedar:
Outdoor Fires and Campfires
Cedar can be an excellent choice for outdoor fires or campfires, especially if you enjoy its distinctive, pleasant aroma. The crackling and popping, while something to be aware of, can add a bit of magic to a starry night around the campfire. Just make sure you have your fire well-contained and that you’re prepared to manage any sparks.
Quick, Hot Fires
Given that cedar burns hot and fast, it’s a good option for when you need a quick, hot fire. If you’re only looking to enjoy a fire for a short period or need to warm up quickly, cedar can do the trick.
Mixed Fires
If you love the smell of cedar but want a fire that lasts longer, consider mixing cedar with slower-burning hardwoods like oak or ash. You’ll get the aroma of cedar and the longevity of the hardwoods, creating a well-rounded fire.
Every type of firewood has its place, and for cedar, it’s all about those aromatic, hot, and somewhat ephemeral fires. So, the next time you’re planning a cozy outdoor gathering or need a quick warm-up, cedar could be just the firewood you’re looking for.