Cedar is generally considered a good wood to burn. Here are some reasons why cedar is often used as firewood:
- High Heat Output: Cedar wood has a high heat value, which means it produces a significant amount of heat when burned. This makes it effective for heating purposes and can help keep your space warm during colder months.
- Aromatic Fragrance: Cedar wood has a pleasant, aromatic scent that can fill the air when burned. This natural fragrance can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home or outdoor space.
- Easy to Ignite: Cedar wood is relatively easy to ignite, making it convenient for starting fires. It typically catches fire quickly and burns steadily, allowing you to establish a good fire easily.
- Low Smoke and Soot: Cedar wood produces less smoke and soot compared to some other types of firewood. This can be beneficial in terms of air quality and reducing the amount of cleaning required for your fireplace or stove.
- Insect Repellent Properties: Cedar wood contains natural oils and compounds that act as a deterrent to insects, including mosquitoes and moths. Burning cedar can help keep these pests at bay while enjoying your outdoor space.
It’s important to note that cedar wood should be properly seasoned before burning. Seasoning involves allowing the wood to dry out for an extended period, typically around 6 to 12 months, to reduce its moisture content.
Dry wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke. Additionally, using well-seasoned cedar ensures a more consistent and enjoyable burning experience.
Other Uses For Cedar Wood
Cedar wood has various uses beyond being a good wood for burning. Here are some common applications of cedar wood:
- Furniture: Cedar wood is highly valued for its durability, natural beauty, and resistance to decay and insect damage. It is often used to create furniture pieces such as tables, chairs, cabinets, and chests.
- Outdoor Structures: Cedar wood’s natural resistance to rot and insects makes it a popular choice for outdoor structures like decks, fences, pergolas, and gazebos. Its attractive grain and color can enhance the visual appeal of these structures.
- Siding and Roofing: Cedar wood is commonly used as a material for siding and roofing due to its weather-resistant properties. It provides good insulation and can withstand exposure to the elements, making it a durable and aesthetically pleasing option for homes and buildings.
- Aromatic Storage: Cedar wood’s distinct scent acts as a natural repellent against insects and helps keep stored items, such as clothing, linens, and blankets, fresh and protected. Cedar chests and closets are popular for this purpose.
- Essential Oils and Fragrance Products: Cedar wood is used to produce essential oils, which have a calming and soothing aroma. These oils are commonly used in aromatherapy and fragrance products like perfumes, soaps, and candles.
- Decorative and Craft Items: Cedar wood’s unique grain pattern and color make it a popular choice for decorative and craft items. It can be carved, shaped, and engraved to create artwork, sculptures, and other intricate designs.
- Mulch and Garden Bedding: Cedar wood chips and mulch are used in gardening and landscaping applications. They help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weed growth, and provide a pleasant aroma in outdoor spaces.
- Wood Plank For Smoking Foods: Smoking salmon with a cedar plank is a common use. Cedar wood adds a smoky and slightly sweet taste without overpowering a delicate fish like salmon and is thus a popular choice.
- Smoking Foods: In addition to using cedar plans in a BBQ, you can also use cedar chunks in a smoker to smoke foods.
It’s worth noting that different species of cedar wood may have specific uses and characteristics. For example, Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar are particularly popular for their durability and natural resistance to decay.
Always ensure that you select the appropriate type of cedar wood for your specific needs and consult with professionals if necessary.