28.12.2025
Kiln-Dried vs Seasoned Firewood: What’s the Difference? | Snowdon Timber
Choosing the right firewood has a direct impact on heat output, stove efficiency and air quality. In the UK, the two most common options are kiln-dried firewood and seasoned firewood, but the difference between them is not always clear.
This guide explains how each type of firewood is produced, how they perform, and which option is best for your home or stove.
What Is Kiln-Dried Firewood?
Kiln-dried firewood is dried in a controlled environment using heat and airflow to reduce moisture content quickly and consistently.
This process produces logs that are ready to burn immediately and perform reliably in wood-burning stoves, log burners and fireplaces.
Key Characteristics of Kiln-Dried Firewood
- Moisture content typically below 20%
- Ready to Burn certified
- Clean, efficient combustion
- High heat output
- Ready to use immediately
Kiln-dried logs ignite easily, burn hotter and produce minimal smoke, making them ideal for modern stoves and indoor use.
What Is Seasoned Firewood?
Seasoned firewood is dried naturally by air over time, usually outdoors. The drying process can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on wood type, storage conditions and weather.
Key Characteristics of Seasoned Firewood
- Long natural drying period
- Moisture content can vary
- May require additional storage before use
- Quality depends heavily on weather conditions
Seasoned firewood can burn well if fully dry, but moisture levels are often inconsistent compared to kiln-dried logs.
Kiln-Dried vs Seasoned Firewood: Key Differences
Moisture Content
- Kiln-dried: consistently low and controlled
- Seasoned: variable and less predictable
Heat Output
- Kiln-dried: higher, more efficient heat
- Seasoned: lower if moisture content is high
Smoke and Emissions
- Kiln-dried: minimal smoke and residue
- Seasoned: increased smoke if not fully dry
Storage Requirements
- Kiln-dried: ready to use on delivery
- Seasoned: may need further drying and storage
Which Firewood Should You Choose?
Choose Kiln-Dried Firewood If You:
- Want maximum heat output
- Use a wood-burning stove or log burner
- Need logs ready to use immediately
- Want to comply with UK Ready to Burn regulations
Choose Seasoned Firewood If You:
- Have time and space to store logs
- Are buying in bulk for future use
- Can confidently manage moisture levels
UK Firewood Regulations
UK regulations state that firewood sold in quantities under 2 cubic metres must be Ready to Burn certified, meaning it must have a moisture content of 20% or less.
Kiln-dried firewood consistently meets this requirement, while seasoned firewood may not unless it has been properly tested and certified.
Final Thoughts
Both kiln-dried and seasoned firewood have their place, but kiln-dried logs offer greater consistency, cleaner burning and immediate usability. For most households, particularly those using modern stoves, kiln-dried firewood is the more reliable and convenient choice.
Snowdon Timber supplies high-quality, Ready to Burn certified firewood, suitable for wood burners, stoves and open fires. If you need advice on choosing the right logs for your needs, our team is always happy to help.
