How Important Is Moisture Content in Firewood Logs? — Mr Logs Explains

When it comes to burning firewood, one factor makes all the difference between a roaring, efficient fire and a smoky, disappointing one:

👉 Moisture content.

At Mr Logs, we often tell our customers:

“Dry wood burns best.”

But let’s take a closer look at why moisture content matters so much when choosing firewood for your log burner, stove, or open fire.

What is moisture content?

Moisture content is simply the amount of water trapped inside the wood. Freshly cut (“green”) wood can have a moisture content as high as 50% or more. That means half of the weight of the log is actually water!

Through proper drying — either seasoning or kiln drying — the moisture content is reduced to below 20%, which is the ideal level for burning.

Why does moisture content matter?

1️⃣ Easier to light and maintain a fire

Dry logs ignite quickly and burn much more easily. Wet logs struggle to catch fire and often smoulder instead of burning properly.

2️⃣ Higher heat output

The drier the wood, the more heat it produces. If your logs are full of moisture, much of the heat energy goes into evaporating the water, not heating your home.

3️⃣ Less smoke and pollution

Wet wood creates more smoke, soot, and harmful emissions, which can clog up your chimney and pollute the air. Properly dried logs produce a clean, efficient burn.

4️⃣ Protects your stove and chimney

Burning wet wood increases creosote buildup inside your chimney, which can be dangerous and lead to chimney fires if not regularly cleaned.

5️⃣ Saves you money

Dry logs give you more heat per log, meaning you need fewer logs to heat your home — a more efficient and cost-effective burn.

What’s the ideal moisture content?

At Mr Logs, we recommend using firewood with a moisture content of 20% or less. This ensures:

✅ Maximum heat output

✅ Clean, efficient burning

✅ Minimal smoke and soot

✅ Safer operation for your stove and chimney

All our logs — both kiln dried and properly seasoned — are thoroughly tested to meet this standard.

How can you check moisture content?

• Buy certified Ready to Burn logs: All Mr Logs firewood meets UK’s Ready to Burn certification standards.

• Use a moisture meter: A small handheld device that can instantly tell you the moisture content of your logs.

• Look and feel: Dry logs are lighter, have cracks on the ends, sound hollow when knocked, and bark may be loose or falling off.

Mr Logs’ Tip: Store your firewood correctly

Even dry logs can reabsorb moisture if not stored properly. Keep your logs:

• Off the ground

• Under cover

• In a well-ventilated area

Proper storage protects your investment and ensures your logs stay dry and ready to burn.

In summary: Dry wood burns better. Moisture content matters.

At Mr Logs, we take care of the drying process, so you don’t have to worry. Whether you choose our kiln dried or seasoned firewood, you can trust that every log is ready to give you the best burn possible.

🔥 Need fully dried, ready-to-burn firewood?

Order your logs today from Mr Logs — delivered to your door, perfectly dried, and ready for your stove!