Kiln Dried vs Seasoned Logs: The Great British Log-Off - What’s the Difference? — Mr Logs Explains
Kiln Dried vs Seasoned Logs: What’s the Difference? — Mr Logs Explains
At Mr Logs, we know how important it is to choose the right firewood for your log burner or open fire. One of the most common questions we get from our customers is:
“What’s the difference between kiln dried logs and seasoned logs?”
Let’s break it down.
Seasoned Logs
Seasoned logs are naturally dried over time. Once the wood has been cut and split, it’s stored and left to air dry, typically for 12–24 months depending on the wood type and conditions.
During seasoning, moisture slowly evaporates from the logs until the moisture content drops to around 20% or lower — the ideal level for burning.
Benefits of seasoned logs:
-
Naturally dried using time and airflow
-
More environmentally friendly drying process (uses no extra energy)
-
Perfectly suitable for burning if properly seasoned
Things to watch:
-
Takes a long time to reach the correct moisture level
-
Needs to be stored correctly to avoid reabsorbing moisture
-
Moisture levels can vary depending on how they’ve been stored
At Mr Logs, we ensure our seasoned logs are stored in the right conditions to give you the best burn every time.
Kiln Dried Logs
Kiln dried logs are dried in a controlled chamber (kiln) using heat and air circulation to quickly reduce the moisture content. This method can bring logs down to below 20% moisture in just a few days or weeks.
Benefits of kiln dried logs:
-
Guaranteed low moisture content (usually between 10–20%)
-
Burn hotter and more efficiently
-
Produce less smoke and creosote
-
Easier to light and maintain a fire
Because of their consistently low moisture, kiln dried logs give you a clean, reliable, and high-performance burn, ideal for modern stoves and open fires.
Mr Logs’ Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Both kiln dried and seasoned logs have their place — it depends on what you’re looking for:
|
Feature |
Kiln Dried Logs |
Seasoned Logs |
|---|---|---|
|
Drying Time |
Fast (days/weeks) |
Slow (months/years) |
|
Moisture Content |
10–20% (consistent) |
Up to 20% (can vary) |
|
Burning Quality |
Very efficient, easy to light |
Excellent if fully seasoned |
|
Smoke & Creosote |
Minimal |
Low (if properly dried) |
|
Price |
Slightly higher |
More economical |
At Mr Logs, we supply both kiln dried and properly seasoned logs — all fully ready to burn and certified to meet strict quality standards. You get great heat, cleaner burning, and full peace of mind.
🔥 Need advice on the best logs for your burner?
Contact the Mr Logs team or browse our selection online — we’re always happy to help you stay warm!