While the fragrant smoke and easy kindling of cedarwood are undeniably alluring, there are some important considerations before you toss a cedar log onto the fire.
In this article, we’ll explore both its advantages and disadvantages to help you determine if it's the right choice for your fireplace or fire pit.
Key Takeaways:
- Cedar's low BTU output makes it inefficient for primary heating.
- It produces more creosote than hardwoods.
- Is best suited for outdoor fires, campfires, and fire pits.
Table of Contents
- Cedar Firewood Pros & Cons
- Cedar vs. Other Firewood Types
- When to (and When NOT to) Burn Cedar
- Tips for Burning Cedar Safely
Additional Tables:
Cedar Firewood Pros & Cons
Like any wood type, cedar comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Weighing these pros and cons will help you decide if cedar is the right fuel for your fire.
The Pros of Burning Cedar
- Easy Splitting and Kindling: Cedar is a relatively soft wood, making it significantly easier to split than denser hardwoods. Its softness also makes it excellent for kindling.
- Quick Ignition: Thanks to its natural oils and porous structure, cedar ignites quickly and easily. A convenient choice for starting fires, especially in damp conditions or when you need a quick blaze.
- Aroma: The pleasant aroma of burning cedar is a major advantage for many. This fragrance enhances the outdoor experience and can help keep pesky insects at bay.
The Cons of Burning Cedar
- Lower Heat Output (BTUs): Cedar has a significantly lower BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating compared to hardwoods. This means it produces less heat per unit volume, making it less efficient for heating your home.
- Creates More Creosote: Burning cedar produces more creosote than denser hardwoods. Creosote is a flammable substance that builds up in chimneys and can pose a serious fire hazard if not regularly cleaned.
- Sparking and Popping: Cedar tends to spark and pop while burning. This can be dangerous for open fireplaces. Use a fire screen when burning cedar indoors.
- Not Ideal for Sustained Heat: Cedar burns quickly and intensely and won't provide a long-lasting fire. You'll need to add wood frequently to maintain a consistent heat output.
Cedar vs. Other Firewood Types
Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple are generally preferred for their heat output and burn time, while softer woods like pine and fir share some similarities with cedar. Here's a quick comparison:
| Firewood Type | Heat Output (BTUs) | Burn Time | Aroma | Ease of Splitting | Creosote Buildup | Sparking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar | Low | Short | Aromatic | Easy | High | High |
| Oak | High | Long | Mild, Smoky | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Hickory | High | Long | Strong, Smoky | Difficult | Moderate | Low |
| Maple | Moderate | Moderate | Sweet | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Pine | Moderate | Moderate | Resinous | Easy | High | Moderate |
| Fir | Low | Short | Mild, Piney | Easy | High | Moderate |
As you can see, cedar falls short in terms of heat output and burn time compared to hardwoods.
While its ease of splitting and distinct aroma are attractive features, the high creosote buildup and sparking tendency are important drawbacks to consider. If your priority is generating substantial heat, hardwoods are the clear winner.
However, if ambiance and quick ignition are your primary goals, cedar might be suitable for specific applications, which we'll discuss in the next section.
Related: Types of Firewood: Choosing the Best for Your Needs
When to (and When NOT to) Burn Cedar
So, after weighing the pros and cons, when does it actually make sense to burn cedar? While it's not ideal for all situations, there are specific scenarios where cedar can be a suitable choice:
When to Burn Cedar
- Outdoor Fires and Fire Pits for Ambiance: The pleasant aroma and quick ignition make cedar a great choice for outdoor fires, especially when the goal is ambiance rather than sustained heat.
- Starting Fires Quickly: Use smaller pieces of cedar kindling to get your fire going quickly. You can then transition to hardwoods for a longer-lasting and hotter fire.
- Small Campfires: For short-lived campfires where heat output isn't a primary concern, cedar can be a convenient and pleasant-smelling option.
When NOT to Burn Cedar
Primary Heating Source in Fireplaces or Wood Stoves
Due to its low BTU output and tendency to burn quickly, cedar is not a good choice for heating your home. You'll end up using a lot of wood and spending more time tending the fire than enjoying its warmth.
Opt for hardwoods like oak or maple for sustained heat and greater efficiency.
Enclosed Spaces Due to Sparking and Creosote Buildup
Burning cedar indoors, especially in enclosed fireplaces or wood stoves, can be risky due to its tendency to spark and pop. Additionally, the increased creosote buildup can create a fire hazard if your chimney isn't meticulously maintained.
Remember to prioritize safety and choose the right wood for the right purpose.
Tips for Burning Cedar Safely
If you choose to burn cedar, prioritizing safety is paramount. Here are some essential tips to minimize potential risks:
- Chimney Maintenance and Cleaning: Due to cedar's tendency to produce creosote, regular chimney cleaning is crucial. This will help prevent creosote buildup and reduce the risk of chimney fires.
- Use a Screen: Due to cedar's propensity to spark and pop a sturdy screen will prevent embers from escaping the fireplace and igniting nearby materials.
- Burn Smaller Pieces of Cedar: Burning smaller pieces helps control the intensity of the fire, reduces the amount of smoke produced, and minimizes creosote buildup.
- Mix Cedar with Hardwoods: For a longer-lasting fire and increased heat output start with a base of hardwoods and add smaller amounts of cedar for its aroma.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure your fireplace or wood stove has adequate airflow to prevent smoke buildup and ensure complete combustion.
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