How to Season Firewood in the UK; The Ultimate Guide

Seasoning Your Own Wood is Simple if You Follow These Steps

When it comes to burning wood efficiently and safely, seasoning firewood is essential, especially in the damp British climate. If you’ve ever wondered how to season firewood or how do you season logs correctly, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

What Does “Seasoning Firewood” Mean?

Seasoning firewood simply means drying it out to reduce its moisture content. Freshly cut wood (also known as green wood) can have a moisture content of 50% or more. Seasoned firewood, on the other hand, should have a moisture content below 20%. You can buy ready to season firewood in XXXL Mammoth Bags here.

Burning unseasoned wood creates excess smoke, tar build-up in chimneys, and very little heat. Properly seasoned logs burn cleaner, hotter, and more efficiently—saving you money and effort in the long run.

How Do You Season Firewood?

If you're asking how do you season firewood in the UK, follow these proven steps:

1. Choose the Right Wood - Not all woods season at the same rate. Hardwoods like ash, oak, and beech are dense and burn well but take longer to season (up to 2 years). Softwoods such as pine and spruce dry quicker (6–12 months) but burn faster.
2. Cut and Split the Logs - Split your logs as soon as possible after cutting. Splitting increases the surface area, allowing moisture to escape more easily. Aim for lengths that fit your stove or fireplace—typically around 25–30cm.
3. Stack the Logs Properly - Stack your wood in a single row off the ground. Use pallets, rails, or bricks to raise the bottom layer and allow airflow. Stack the logs bark-side up if you’re protecting from rain, and bark-side down if they’re under cover (to help moisture escape).
4. Pick a Good Location - Place your stack in a sunny, well-ventilated area. In the UK, sheltering your firewood from constant rain is crucial. A woodshed with open sides or a breathable log store works best. Avoid covering the entire stack with a tarp—it traps moisture.
5. Allow Time to Dry - In the UK, most hardwoods need 18–24 months to season properly, while softwoods may take 6–12 months. Use a moisture meter to check your logs—the target is below 20% moisture content.

Tips for Seasoning Logs Faster

• Use smaller logs: Thinner pieces dry quicker.
• Stack in a criss-cross pattern: Encourages more airflow.
• Store under a ventilated cover: Protects from rain while letting air in.
• Rotate old and new wood: Use a “first in, first out” system so the oldest wood gets burned first.

How Do You Know When Firewood is Seasoned?

Here are a few signs your logs are ready to burn:

• Cracks in the ends of the logs
• Lightweight compared to green wood
• Hollow sound when tapped
• Grey or faded colour
• Moisture meter reads under 20%

Can You Season Firewood in the Rain?

UK weather can be unpredictable, but yes, you can still season firewood effectively—even with occasional rain. Just ensure your stack is well-ventilated and sheltered from direct rain using a log store, lean-to, or breathable cover.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to season logs is a valuable skill that ensures you get the most heat and efficiency out of your firewood. Whether you're using a wood-burning stove, fireplace, or chiminea, properly seasoned logs will make all the difference in performance, safety, and environmental impact.

If you're serious about self-sufficiency or simply want better fires this winter, start seasoning your firewood now—it’s worth the wait!

If you are interested in seasoning your own logs and saving money you can buy ready-cut unseasoned logs here from logs Direct. Alternatively Logs Direct offer Kiln Dried Wood that is ready to burn. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Seasoning Your Own Firewood

Q: How long does it take to season firewood in the UK?

A: Softwoods typically season in 6–12 months, while hardwoods can take 18–24 months depending on weather conditions and storage.

Q: Can I season logs indoors?

A: It’s not recommended. Seasoning needs airflow and ventilation, which indoor environments can’t provide without risking mould or dampness. It is recommended that you season your logs under a specially designed wooden log store that keeps you logs sheltered from rain while keeping them off the ground and aerated. 

Q: Is it OK to burn slightly wet wood?

A: Wood with more than 20% moisture won’t burn efficiently and can lead to creosote build-up in your chimney. Always use a moisture meter to check.