How Long to Season Alder Firewood

At WOOD-Břežany s.r.o., our Alder Firewood is carefully split and air-seasoned to ensure reliable, clean, and efficient burning. We recommend a seasoning period of 6–12 months, lowering moisture content to under 20 % for optimal heat and minimal smoke. Ideal for wood stoves, fireplaces, and log burners.

Seasoning is the process of drying freshly cut wood, reducing its moisture content so it burns safely and efficiently. Without proper seasoning, burning green or wet wood can lead to inefficient combustion, smoky fires, and creosote build-up in chimneys. (boylebrothers.co.uk)

For best results, firewood should reach a moisture content of 20% or less. (boylebrothers.co.uk)

How Long Does Alder Firewood Take to Season?

• Alder typically requires 6–12 months of seasoning, depending on climate and how it is stacked. (Axe Adviser)
• In hot, dry climates, around 6 months may be sufficient. (Axe Adviser)
• In cooler or damp environments, such as much of Europe, up to 12 months (or even more) may be needed for proper drying. (Chainsawnerds)
• Some soft hardwoods like alder can be ready in 6–8 months under optimal conditions. (theyardable.com)

How to Season Alder Firewood Effectively

Here are five essential steps we use at WOOD-Břežany to ensure our alder firewood seasons well:

1. Split the Wood Early
   • As soon as alder is felled, split it into smaller pieces. This increases surface area and accelerates drying. (Axe Adviser)
2. Stack for Airflow
   • Stack logs off the ground (e.g., on pallets or bricks) so air can circulate underneath.
   • Leave gaps between rows to enhance ventilation. (Axe Adviser)
3. Choose the Right Location
   • Place stacks in a sunny, well-ventilated spot.
   • Cover only the top (e.g., with a tarpaulin) to protect from rain or snow, but leave the sides open. (Chainsawnerds)
4. Monitor Moisture
   • Use a moisture meter to check when wood is ready. Target is below 20%, ideally lower for the cleanest burn. (Chainsawnerds)
   • Visual clues also help: deep cracks in the ends of the logs, a hollow sound when two pieces are knocked together, or colour changes. (montana.edu)
5. Be Patient
   • Even with perfect stacking and weather, seasoning can take many months. (woodlanddirect.com)
   • In some cases, very slow drying can last up to 2 years, especially with dense logs stored suboptimally. (woodlanddirect.com)

How to Tell When Alder Firewood Is Fully Seasoned

Why Properly Seasoned Alder Firewood Matters

• Efficient Heating: Dry alder burns more cleanly and gives off more usable heat. (Chainsawnerds)
• Less Smoke & Creosote: Wet wood creates more smoke and harmful by-products. (woodlanddirect.com)
• Safer Chimney Operation: Reduces risk of tar and creosote buildup, which can lead to chimney fires. (downloads.hearthnhome.com)
• Long-Term Storage: Well-seasoned wood resists rot, mould, and pest infestation better. (logsdirect.co.uk)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long should I wait before burning fresh alder logs? We recommend 6–12 months, but monitor with a moisture meter. If moisture is above 20%, wait longer.
2. Can I speed up the seasoning process? Yes — split logs early, stack in airflow-friendly ways, and use a cover only on top so air can circulate.
3. Is alder “hardwood” or “softwood”? Alder is a soft hardwood. It seasons relatively quickly compared to very dense hardwoods. (timberblogger.com)
4. What if I don’t have a moisture meter? Look for cracks at the ends of the logs, knock two pieces together (should sound hollow), and check the weight and dryness by feel. (logsdirect.co.uk)
5. Can I burn alder sooner if it’s kiln-dried? If alder is kiln-dried, it may reach low moisture content much faster than air-seasoned logs — but check the supplier’s specification to be sure.

Key Takeaways

• Alder firewood ideally needs 6–12 months of seasoning to reach under 20% moisture.
• Proper stacking, airflow, and humidity control are critical for effective drying.
• Test for readiness using both a moisture meter and physical signs like cracks and sound.
• Well-seasoned alder ensures efficient heating, reduced smoke, and safer burning.