In this article we will compare and contrast the benefits of using hardwood over softwood on your stove. However, before we start with the article it is worth noting that some softwood does go against the rule of thumb and may compare favourably to their hardwood counterparts.
Storage space
You have probably never thought of this but when you buy wood for your stove you will likely buy it by the weight, usually the ton. As hardwood is denser than softwood it is heavier therefore takes up less storage space. This may seem like a fairly weak argument to some people but if you have limited storage space it is certainly something to consider. This reminds me of the old adage, what is heaviest, a ton of wood or a ton of feathers?
Hardwood burn time
As we touched on above, as hardwood is denser than softwood it last longer. But what does this density relate to? Well, the density of wood relates to the structure and in simple terms how tightly compact the material is. As hardwood is more tightly compact than softwood, it takes longer to burn through and therefore has a longer burn time. If you don’t believe us, next time you are using your stove, burn a piece of softwood and a piece of hardwood at the same time and see which one lasts the longest!
No need for constant top ups
As softwood is less dense than hardwood it will take a greater volume of softwood to achieve the same heat output as hardwood. Therefore, if you use hardwood for your stove this will mean less time running backwards and forwards topping up. Again, this may seem like a fairly innocuous argument but come wintertime, the snow and the howling gales, you might just feel the benefit.
Better value for money
Due to the structure of hardwood and softwood, you will receive more kilowatts per hour per cubic metre from hardwood. This means that not only does it emit more heat but due to the extended burn time there is less to-ing and fro-ing, as we mentioned above, with top ups. The beauty of a modern day stove is the ability to accumulate heat and let this roll out into your room over a prolonged period of time. As hardwood is denser and burns longer, this is a type of material which is perfect for that scenario.
Trial and error
As we touched on above, there is some softwood which can hold its own against hardwood but they tend to be few and far between. Due to the structure of the material, hardwood is denser and therefore longer burning than softwood. You will also need to take into account the availability of wood in your local vicinity and the cost. However, there are more than enough different types of wood available around the UK to ensure a good deal on a quality burn is not far from you.
Conclusion
A general rule of thumb suggests that hardwood is denser and longer lasting than its softwood counterpart. If you would like any advice on the best type of wood to use with your wood-burning stove please feel free to call us, email or use our online chat facility. We are more than happy to help you.