Having a fireplace or a wood stove in the home is a great second source of heat for a homeowner. Heating the home with a fireplace or a wood stove is also much less expensive than heating with gas, oil, propane, or electricity. If a homeowner is going to use a wood stove or a fireplace as a second source of heat, they would need to look into firewood suppliers. Before choosing a supplier, there are a few things the homeowner should know.
What Type of Wood Are They Selling?
It is important to ask the supplier if they are selling hardwood or softwood. Softwoods season faster than hardwoods and burn much faster. There are also certain types of woods that really should not be used in the home, such as pine. Hardwood burns longer, and all types of hardwood are safe to use in the home.
Has the Wood Been Seasoned?
For wood to be ready for burning in the home, it needs to be seasoned. For wood to be seasoned, it would need to remain uncovered and exposed to the elements for at least six months. Many suppliers will charge less for unseasoned wood. However, the homeowner wouldn’t be able to burn it right away. This is a very important question to ask when buying firewood.
What Size Are the Logs?
The homeowner should ask what size the supplier has cut the logs. If they are too big to fit into the fireplace or wood stove, the homeowner would need to cut the wood themselves. Rather than going through the trouble of cutting the wood, the homeowner should find a supplier who will cut the logs to the appropriate size.
Does the Supplier Sell By Weight or Volume?
Some suppliers will sell the wood by weight, but the homeowner should only work with a company that sells by volume. If the wood is unseasoned, it will cost much more since it is heavier. Suppliers who sell wood by volume sell it by the cord.
Is the Supplier Local?
It is best to work with a local supplier. Many companies will charge the homeowner for delivery. If the supplier has to drive a long distance, they will likely charge more for delivery.
It is important that the homeowner knows what questions to ask firewood suppliers before making a purchase. For more information, contact Jose Martinez Tree Service Inc. You can also connect them on Facebook.
