When choosing firewood for your log burner, one of the most common questions is: should I burn Oak or Birch?
Both are excellent hardwoods, but they burn differently. The right choice depends on whether you prefer a fire that's quick to get going, a longer steady burn, or a combination of the two.
At The Northern Firewood Co, we supply premium kiln-dried Oak, Birch and our popular Oak & Birch Blend, all delivered directly to your door.
Here's how they compare.
Kiln-Dried Oak Firewood
Oak is one of the most popular choices for wood-burning stoves and log burners.
As a dense hardwood, Oak generally burns slowly and steadily, making it particularly useful when you want to maintain heat over a longer period.
Why Choose Oak?
Kiln-dried Oak is ideal if you're looking for:
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A long, steady burn
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Excellent heat output
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A slower-burning hardwood
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Logs suitable for longer evenings by the fire
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A consistent fire once properly established
Because Oak is dense, it can take slightly longer to establish than lighter woods. Once it's burning properly, however, it provides an excellent long-lasting fire.
Kiln-Dried Birch Firewood
Birch is another fantastic firewood and is particularly popular with people who enjoy a bright, lively flame.
It tends to catch more quickly than Oak, making it easier to establish your fire.
Why Choose Birch?
Kiln-dried Birch is a great option if you want:
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Easy lighting
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A lively flame
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Good heat output
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A fire that gets going quickly
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Excellent everyday firewood
Birch is particularly useful when you're coming home on a cold evening and want to get your log burner producing heat quickly.
Oak vs Birch: What's the Difference?
The main difference comes down to how the logs burn.
Birch generally catches more quickly and produces a lively flame, while dense Oak provides a slower, longer-lasting burn.
That's why some log burner owners prefer not to choose between them at all.
Instead, they burn both.
Why We Love an Oak & Birch Blend
Combining Oak and Birch can give you the advantages of both types of firewood.
Start your fire using dry kindling and Birch to help establish a strong flame.
Once your fire is going, adding Oak can help maintain a longer, steadier burn.
It's simple, effective and one of our favourite ways to use a log burner.
That's exactly why we offer our Oak & Birch Blend.
You get a mixture of premium kiln-dried hardwoods in one order, giving you flexibility every time you light the fire.
Does Moisture Content Matter?
Absolutely.
Choosing the right species of wood is important, but how dry the wood is can be even more important.
Trying to burn wet or poorly seasoned wood can make your fire harder to light and can result in more smoke and poorer performance.
Our kiln-dried firewood has a moisture content below 20% and The Northern Firewood Co is Ready to Burn® certified – WS5818/00001.
That means you can order knowing your firewood has been properly dried and is ready for your log burner.
What Size Should You Order?
If you regularly use your log burner throughout autumn and winter, buying your firewood in larger quantities can save you the hassle of constantly restocking.
At The Northern Firewood Co, our range includes firewood nets, Jumbo Bags and our large XXL Crates.
Our XXL Crates contain approximately 2m³ of loose logs, equivalent to roughly three Jumbo Bags, making them a great choice for regular log burner users.
Don't forget to add kindling and wood wool firelighters to your order so you've got everything you need to get the fire started.
So, Is Oak or Birch Better?
There's no single answer — it depends on how you like to use your fire.
Choose Oak if you prioritise a slower, longer-lasting burn.
Choose Birch if you like a fire that's quick to establish with an attractive, lively flame.
Or choose an Oak & Birch Blend if you'd like the flexibility of having both.
Whichever you choose, properly kiln-dried firewood is key to getting the best from your log burner.
Premium Kiln-Dried Logs Delivered Across the UK
At The Northern Firewood Co, we're passionate about supplying premium firewood that's properly dried, ready to burn and convenient to order.
Whether you prefer Oak, Birch or a blend of both, we'll deliver your firewood directly to your door.
🔥 Stock up today and get your log store ready for the colder months ahead.
The Northern Firewood Co
The Home of Premium Kiln-Dried Firewood. Delivered Across the UK.