Elm is a common tree across many parts of North America and Europe, making it a readily available resource for some. But just because you can burn something doesn't mean you should.
In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of burning elm, examining its BTU output, ease of splitting and seasoning, smoke production, and overall performance compared to other popular firewood choices.
Elm Firewood: Quick Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Decent heat output (around 20 million BTUs)
- Can be cost-effective if locally abundant
- Moderate burn time
- Pleasant aroma when seasoned
Cons:
- Very difficult to split
- Long seasoning time (1-2 years)
- Produces moderate smoke
- Can spark and produce lingering coals
Is elm good firewood?
While it offers decent heat and a moderate burn time, the difficulty of splitting and long seasoning time make it a less desirable choice than other hardwoods like oak or maple.
- If you have access to free elm and are willing to put in the effort, it can be a viable option.
- Otherwise, easier-to-process firewood choices are generally recommended.
This quick overview gives a snapshot of elm firewood's strengths and weaknesses. Continue reading for a more in-depth analysis.
Table of Contents
- Elm Firewood: The Pros
- Elm Firewood: The Cons
- Splitting and Seasoning Elm Firewood
- Elm Firewood Compared to Other Popular Options
Additional Tables:
Elm Firewood: The Pros
While elm isn't considered a top-tier firewood like oak or hickory, it does offer some advantages that make it a viable option for some:
Decent BTU Output
Elm wood provides a respectable heat output, although it falls into the mid-range category. Its BTU (British Thermal Unit) output is typically around 20 million BTUs per cord, which is comparable to other common hardwoods like ash and maple.
While not as high as oak or hickory (which can exceed 30 million BTUs), it still offers a decent amount of heat for warming your home.
Potential Cost-Effectiveness (Regional)
In some regions, elm is abundant which can translate to lower costs or even free firewood if you're willing to do the work of cutting and splitting. If you have access to a readily available source of elm, it can be a very economical heating option.
Reasonable Burn Time
Elm offers a moderate burn time, meaning you won't need to constantly add wood to your fire. While it doesn't burn as long as some denser hardwoods, it still provides a reasonable duration, especially when properly seasoned.
Pleasant Aroma
When properly seasoned, elm burns with a relatively mild, pleasant, and some would even say slightly sweet aroma. This makes it a decent choice for indoor fireplaces, provided it's dry enough to minimize smoke.
Related: What Firewood Smells the Best: Our Top Choices
Elm Firewood: The Cons
Despite some advantages, elm firewood has its drawbacks, which can make it a challenging fuel source:
Difficult to Split
Elm is notorious for being tough to split. Its interlocking grain and twisted fibers often deflect axe blows, making it a physically demanding chore. You'll likely need a good-quality splitting maul and possibly a hydraulic splitter for larger pieces.
This difficulty can be a significant deterrent, especially if you're processing large quantities of wood.
Long Seasoning Time
Elm requires a long seasoning time, typically between 1 and 2 years. Its dense, tight-grained nature means it takes longer for moisture to evaporate.
Burning unseasoned or improperly seasoned elm leads to reduced heat output, increased smoke, and creosote buildup in your chimney, which is a fire hazard.
Produces Moderate Smoke
While seasoned elm produces a relatively pleasant smell, it can still generate a moderate amount of smoke, particularly when first ignited or if not fully seasoned. This can be a concern for indoor fireplaces and those sensitive to smoke.
Ensure adequate ventilation when burning elm.
Sparks and Coaling
Elm can produce more sparks and embers than some other hardwoods. While this isn't a major issue for outdoor fires, it's a safety concern for indoor fireplaces and requires careful monitoring and the use of a proper screen.
The coals also tend to retain heat for a long time, which can be a burn hazard if not handled carefully.
Splitting and Seasoning Elm Firewood
Given elm's challenging nature, proper splitting and seasoning techniques are crucial for a positive burning experience.
Splitting Elm
- Tools of the Trade: Forget the hatchet—you'll need a heavy-duty splitting maul, ideally with a sharp, wedge-shaped head.
- For larger rounds, a hydraulic splitter is highly recommended to save your back and reduce frustration.
- A sledgehammer and splitting wedges can also be helpful for particularly stubborn pieces.
- Target the Cracks: Look for existing cracks in the wood and aim your blows there. Elm often twists as it grows, creating weaknesses you can exploit.
- Go Slow and Steady: Don't try to force it. Consistent, well-placed blows are more effective than brute force. Take breaks when needed and prioritize safety.
- Consider a Kinetic Log Splitter: These specialized tools use rotational force to split wood efficiently and are particularly helpful for tough woods like elm.
Seasoning Elm
- Proper Stacking: Stack the split wood in a crisscross pattern (like a Jenga tower) to allow for maximum air circulation.
- Ensure the wood is elevated off the ground to prevent moisture absorption.
- Cover from Rain and Snow: Protect the woodpile from direct precipitation with a tarp or other covering, but leave the sides open for air to circulate.
- Avoid completely enclosing the wood, as this can trap moisture and hinder the drying process.
- Patience is Key: Elm requires at least 1 year, and preferably 2 years, to season properly.
- Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content.
- Ideally, it should be below 20% before burning.
- Location: Choose a sunny, well-ventilated location for your woodpile. This will maximize airflow and accelerate the drying process.
By following these tips, you can transform tough elm logs into manageable, burnable firewood. While it requires extra effort, the warmth of a crackling elm fire can be a rewarding result.
Related: Learn How to Season Firewood Properly
Elm Firewood Compared to Other Popular Options
How does elm stack up against other common firewood choices? This table provides a quick comparison:
| Firewood Type | BTU (millions/cord) | Burn Time | Ease of Splitting | Smoke Production | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elm | ~20 | Moderate | Difficult | Moderate | Fair |
| Oak | ~24-30 | Long | Medium | Low | Excellent |
| Maple | ~20-25 | Moderate | Easy | Low | Good |
| Hickory | ~25-30 | Long | Medium | Low | Excellent |
| Pine | ~15-20 | Short | Easy | High | Poor (for indoor use) |
| Ash | ~20-25 | Moderate | Medium | Low | Good |
| Cherry | ~20 | Moderate | Medium | Low | Good |
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
- BTU Output: Elm falls in the mid-range for BTU output, offering decent heat but not as much as top performers like oak and hickory.
- Burn Time: Its burn time is moderate, a compromise between longer-burning hardwoods and faster-burning softwoods like pine.
- Ease of Splitting: Elm is a clear loser in this category, presenting a significant challenge compared to easier-splitting options like maple and pine.
- Smoke Production: Elm produces a moderate amount of smoke, less than pine but more than hardwoods like oak and hickory.
Related: Best Firewood to Burn: Top Choices for Every Need
This comparison highlights that while elm can be a usable firewood, other options offer better performance in several key areas. Consider these factors when deciding which firewood is best for your needs.
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