Hemlock, a coniferous evergreen tree, is a common sight in many parts of North America and beyond. But is it a good choice for firewood? The answer, like many things in life, is nuanced. While hemlock can be burned, it's not universally considered top-tier firewood, and there are important factors to consider before stacking it in your woodpile.
What are the burning characteristics of hemlock?
Hemlock burns with a relatively low heat output compared to hardwoods like oak or maple. It's considered a "softwood," meaning its wood is less dense and contains more resin. This resin can produce a smoky flame and sometimes a creosote buildup in your chimney, potentially leading to chimney fires if not properly maintained. The slower burn also means you'll need to add more wood more frequently to maintain a consistent fire.
Is hemlock firewood safe to burn?
Hemlock itself isn't inherently dangerous to burn, but the resin content is a key consideration. Properly seasoned hemlock (dried for at least six months to a year) will burn more cleanly than green hemlock. However, even seasoned hemlock will still produce more smoke than hardwoods. Always ensure you have adequate ventilation and regularly clean your chimney to mitigate the risk of creosote buildup.
How does hemlock compare to other types of firewood?
When compared to hardwoods, hemlock falls short in terms of heat output and burn time. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are denser and burn longer and hotter, making them more efficient for heating. However, hemlock can be a suitable supplemental fuel, especially if mixed with hardwoods. Its relatively fast-drying nature can be beneficial for kindling or getting a fire started quickly.
What are the pros and cons of using hemlock for firewood?
Pros:
- Readily available: In areas where hemlock grows abundantly, it's easily accessible.
- Easy to split: Hemlock is generally easier to split than many hardwoods, making it convenient for those with less physical strength.
- Good kindling: Its quick-drying nature makes it ideal for starting fires.
- Affordable (often free): If you have access to hemlock trees on your property or through responsible harvesting, it can be a cost-effective fuel source.
Cons:
- Low heat output: Doesn't produce as much heat as hardwoods.
- Smoky burn: The resin content can lead to significant smoke production.
- Creosote buildup: Increased risk of creosote buildup in chimneys.
- Shorter burn time: Requires more frequent refuelling compared to hardwoods.
Is hemlock better than pine for firewood?
This is a common question. Both hemlock and pine are softwoods with similar drawbacks: lower heat output, smoky burn, and creosote buildup. Generally, there isn't a significant difference in their burning characteristics. The best choice depends on availability and personal preference.
Can you burn green hemlock firewood?
While technically possible, burning green (unseasoned) hemlock is strongly discouraged. Green wood contains high moisture content, leading to excessive smoke, incomplete combustion, and reduced heat output. It also contributes significantly to creosote buildup, posing a fire hazard. Always allow hemlock to season properly before burning.
In conclusion, hemlock can be used as firewood, particularly if you have ready access to it and understand its limitations. However, it's not the ideal choice for primary heating fuel due to its lower heat output and smoky burn. Using it judiciously as supplemental firewood or kindling, while prioritizing proper seasoning and chimney maintenance, can make it a viable option in some situations.
