It’s the time of year when lots of people have fires burning in their fireplaces, so here are five tips for dealing with firewood:
1. Know what a cord looks like. A cord should be 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long. If you purchase your firewood by the cord, do your best to make sure that you are getting everything you pay for.
2. Know the difference between “seasoned” and “green.” Seasoned wood is dry and has been out in the open air for a while after its been cut. Green wood still has a lot of moisture content so it burns cooler and is therefore not as efficient.
3. Consider long term storage. You should never store firewood against your house, but it should be kept in an area where it can be kept dry but still have access to the wind and sun. The best option is a shed with open sides for air circulation but a roof and raised floor to protect the wood from absorbing rain and snow.
4. Think about indoor storage. Keeping a small amount of wood indoors makes it more convenient, especially if you are using your fireplace as an alternate heat source. It is best to store about a weeks’ worth of wood indoors, if possible. The basement or garage is an excellent option for indoor storage. Just be sure that wherever you store your wood it is far from the fireplace or anywhere else where it could combust.
5. Keep safe. Of course you will want to store a very small amount of wood directly at your fireplace. There are many options for storing this wood (some more attractive than others!), so you just have to find one that fits your style and needs. However, do be sure to keep the wood far enough away that it won’t catch fire if sparks fly. And never, ever, ever store kindling or other combustible materials near your fireplace. Although it may be convenient it is not safe. A home with a fireplace is lovely. A home that catches fire because of the fireplace is just unsafe.
Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.