Ash

Why this fits you

Ash burns around 20-24 million BTU per cord -- solidly good, if not class-leading -- but its real advantage is speed: ash has comparatively low moisture content when freshly cut and splits cleanly along straight grain, so it's ready to burn in as little as 6-12 months rather than the 1-2 years oak or hickory need.

Why many people prefer ash

Ash is often called the best all-round firewood. It splits easily, even by hand, burns with a steady flame and good heat (roughly 20 to 24 million BTU per cord depending on species), and it seasons faster than most hardwoods. It is also one of the few hardwoods that can burn reasonably well after only six to nine months of seasoning when split small and stacked well.

Seasoning and burn

Because ash is relatively low in moisture compared with other hardwoods, it dries quickly, but you should still check with a moisture meter. It lights easily, burns cleanly and leaves a modest amount of ash. This combination makes it a flexible fuel for both shoulder seasons and winter.

The emerald ash borer

Ash trees across much of North America have been killed by the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect. That has created a large supply of dead ash trees, which is why ash firewood is often available and affordable. Dead ash can become brittle quickly, and felling dead trees is dangerous, so use a professional for large trees. The insect also means there are quarantine rules in many areas that limit moving ash firewood, so check local rules and buy firewood locally.

Splitting and stacking

Ash splits cleanly and straight, which makes it one of the easiest species for hand splitting. Stack split pieces off the ground with a cover on top and space for airflow. Dead standing ash that has dried on the stump can be seasoned already, but check moisture and rot before burning.

When to choose something else

If you want the longest burn time, oak, hickory or black locust will outlast ash. Ash is the best choice when you want wood that is easy to process, dries in a short time and burns cleanly.

Buying ash safely

When buying ash, ask where it was cut and whether the seller follows local quarantine rules for emerald ash borer. Standing dead ash that has dried on the stump can be very dry but also rotten at the base, so check for soft or punky wood. Split pieces smaller than you would oak to dry them fully before the heating season starts.

How it compares

Buying checklist

• Split soon after cutting -- ash is easiest to split while relatively fresh
• 6-12 months of stacked, covered seasoning is usually enough
• Good species to keep in reserve for a shorter-notice supply

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