A Practical Guide for Efficient, Low-Smoke Heating

As energy costs fluctuate and households look for consistent, affordable ways to stay warm, firewood has become a reliable option again — not as a nostalgic throwback, but as a practical part of modern home heating.

Many homes across the Midlands are relying on wood burners to reduce their reliance on gas and gain more control over winter heating costs. Naturally, this puts the spotlight on choosing the right logs.

Not all firewood burns the same. Some species ignite quickly but burn out rapidly. Others burn hotter and slower. And then some logs produce very little smoke — crucial for both efficiency and compliance with Smoke Control Areas.

This guide breaks down exactly what to expect from the most common UK logs.

A detailed table presenting all the available types of logs in the UK alongside their comparable attributes.

What Matters Most When Choosing Firewood in 2025

1. Moisture Content (Always Under 20%)

Low-moisture logs burn hotter, last longer and produce far less smoke. Always look for Ready to Burn certified wood or well-seasoned hardwood.

2. Hardwood vs Softwood

Hardwoods (Oak, Ash, Beech) deliver stronger heat and slower burn times.
Softwoods (Pine, Spruce) are ideal for kindling and quick daytime heat.

3. Clean Burning for Smoke Control Areas

Much of the Midlands is regulated under smoke-control legislation, so choosing the right hardwood makes a measurable difference to compliance and efficiency.

A traditional log burner efficiently burning seasoned logs to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Expert Advice for Midlands Wood-Burner Owners

If you’re heating with wood regularly this winter, mix your log types:

Use birch or softwood to get your fire started quickly.
Add ash or beech for steady, reliable heat.
Save oak for long evenings when heat output really matters.

This approach gives you faster ignition, better control, and far greater efficiency than relying on one species alone.

Ash Logs Now Available by the Tonne — £130 Ash

Beechwood now supplies high-quality Ash hardwood logs by the tonne, ideal for households that want reliable stock through the colder months.

Beechwood Trees and Landscapes tonne bags sold for £130 each, wood type: Ash with an avg of 11% moisture

Key Details:

Price: £130 per tonne
Moisture: Average of 11%
Collection: Available for pickup
Delivery: Available, give us a call to arrange
Cut, and ready for use

Beechwood Trees and Landscapes sells logs in tonne bags.

Order Your Logs
Collect from our yard or arrange delivery by phone.
Call us on 0800 328 7988

Best Firewood Logs for UK Homes in 2025