Moisture Mapping

Moisture Mapping is a vital tool for determining the moisture content of firewood, ensuring it burns efficiently and cleanly. By understanding the ideal moisture content, you can optimize your firewood for maximum performance.

Wood Moisture Content

Wood moisture content refers to the amount of water present within the wood’s fibers. Firewood with high moisture content burns inefficiently, producing more smoke, soot, and creosote, which can damage your stove or fireplace.

Ideal Moisture Content for Firewood

The ideal moisture content for firewood varies depending on the type of wood, but generally, it should be below 20%.

* Softwoods (e.g., pine, spruce): 10-15% moisture content
* Hardwoods (e.g., oak, maple): 15-20% moisture content

Firewood with moisture content below 10% burns quickly and may produce too much heat, while firewood with moisture content above 20% burns inefficiently and produces excessive smoke.

Determining Firewood Moisture Content

You can determine the moisture content of firewood using a moisture meter. Insert the meter into the wood and read the percentage displayed.

* < 20% moisture content: Firewood is ready to burn * 20-30% moisture content: Firewood needs to be seasoned for 1-2 months * > 30% moisture content: Firewood needs to be seasoned for 6-12 months