Alder is a type of hardwood that is often used as firewood. It is known for its high density, slow-burning properties, and low ash content. However, the question remains: is alder good firewood?
The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. Alder wood’s benefits are that smells great, lights easy, produces moderate heat, and is inexpensive, but Alder wood’s drawbacks are that it burns quickly and doesn’t burn as hot as other hardwoods.
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using alder as firewood. We will examine the characteristics of alder, compare it to other types of firewood, and provide tips on how to properly season and store alder for optimal burning. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of whether or not alder is a good choice for your firewood needs.
Common Characteristics Of Alder Trees
Alder trees are deciduous trees that belong to the birch family. They are commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Alder trees are medium-sized trees that can grow up to 80 feet tall. They have a conical shape with a broad base and a pointed top. Alder trees have a smooth gray bark that is thin and easily removed. The leaves of the alder tree are dark green and oval-shaped.
Characteristics Of Alder Trees Used For Firewood
Alder wood is a popular choice for firewood because of its many characteristics. Alder wood is a hardwood and member of the birch family, but it acts more like a softwood because it is easy to light and burns hot and fast. Compared to other common hardwoods, alder has a lower BTU. Alder firewood burns quickly, but it makes a fire that is pretty hot and leaves behind good coals.
One of the main characteristics of alder wood is that it doesn’t produce very much smoke and ash if the wood has been properly seasoned. Its thinner bark also requires less time to dry than thick-barked woods. Alder wood is also known for its pleasant aroma when burned, making it a popular choice for indoor fireplaces.
Alder wood is straight-grained and splits easily. The outer bark is thin, so it doesn’t create a big mess when you process it, and it cuts pretty easily as well. Since the wood is rather soft, you’ll find yourself going through more of it in a short period of time. However, this also means that it is easy to cut and split, making it a popular choice for those who need to prepare firewood quickly.
Pros And Cons Of Using Alder For Firewood
Alder is a popular choice of firewood for many people, but it is not without its pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using alder for firewood:
- Pros:
- Alder is a fast-growing tree, which means it is a renewable resource.
- It is relatively easy to split, making it a good choice for kindling.
- Alder produces a pleasant aroma when burned, which can add to the ambiance of a fire.
- It is a relatively low-cost option compared to some other types of firewood.
- It burns smoothly and doesn’t produce a lot of smoke or ash if the wood has been properly seasoned.
- Cons:
- Alder has a relatively low heat output compared to some other types of firewood, so it may not be the best choice for very cold temperatures.
- It can pop and spark when burned, which can be a safety hazard.
- Because it burns quickly, it may not be the best choice for longer-lasting fires.
- Alder has a thinner bark, which means it requires less time to dry, but it may also be more susceptible to rot and decay if not properly stored.
Overall, alder can be a good choice of firewood for many people, especially if it is properly seasoned and stored. However, it may not be the best choice for everyone, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking to get a fire going and all you’ve got is alder, don’t worry: alder is safe to use and is not on the list of bad woods to burn. Also, birch smells great which is a plus.
Heat Output And Efficiency Of Alder Wood
Alder wood has a lower heat output compared to most hardwoods at 17.1 BTUs. However, this does not mean that it is not a good option for firewood. Alder wood can still provide enough heat to warm up a living room on an autumn evening.
How Does Alder Compare To Other Types Of Firewood?
When it comes to heat output, alder wood is not the best option.
Alder produces 17.5 million BTUs per cord of wood (or 128 cubic feet) of seasoned alder firewood. This is on the lower end of heat output Hardwoods such as oak, birch, hickory, and maple have a higher heat output and are better suited for heating larger spaces. However, alder wood is a good option for those who live in milder climates or only use wood as a supplementary heat source.
Fire Quality
Alder wood burns smoothly and produces little smoke and ash if it has been properly seasoned. This makes it a desirable choice for people who want a clean burn. They don’t need to worry about excess smoke and ash. It’s important to note that the quality of the fire also depends on other factors such as the type of stove or fireplace being used.
Amount Of Smoke And Creosote
Since alder wood produces little smoke and ash, it also produces less creosote build up in chimneys and flues. This makes it a good option for those who want to minimize the maintenance required for their wood-burning appliance. However, it is still important to have the chimney or flue inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent any potential fire hazards.
Working With Alder Firewood
What Does Alder Smell Like?
One of the benefits of using alder firewood is its pleasant aroma. When burned, alder produces a sweet smell that’s slightly smoky which that many people find appealing. This fuel is a great option for indoor fireplaces and wood stoves. It can add a sense of warmth and comfort to any room.
Red alder is really nice to look at as well, while black alder can be elegant.
Is Alder Sap Messy?
Unlike some other types of firewood, alder does not produce a lot of sap. This means that it is less likely to make a mess when being handled or burned. However, it is still a good idea to wear gloves when handling alder firewood, as it can be rough and splintery.
Is Alder Wood Hard To Split?
Alder firewood is relatively easy to split, thanks to its straight grain and relatively soft texture. This makes it a good choice for people who are new to using firewood, or who don’t have access to heavy-duty splitting equipment.
How Long Does Alder Wood Take To Season?
Like most types of firewood, alder needs to be seasoned or dried before it can be burned. This typically takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on the climate and storage conditions. To speed up the seasoning process, it is a good idea to split the wood into smaller pieces and stack it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Does Alder Burn Clean?
Alder is a relatively clean-burning type of firewood, producing less smoke and ash than some other hardwoods. This makes it a good choice for people who are concerned about air quality or who want to minimize the amount of cleaning required after burning.
Is Alder Firewood Expensive?
Alder is generally considered to be a relatively inexpensive type of firewood, thanks to its wide availability and fast growth rate. This makes it a good choice for people who want to heat their homes without breaking the bank. However, prices can vary depending on location and availability.
Other Common Uses Of Alder Wood
Alder wood is known for its versatility and is used in various industries. Here are some of the other common uses of alder wood:
- Furniture: Alder wood is a popular choice for making furniture due to its light color and fine texture. It is often used for making cabinets, dressers, and tables.
- Plywood: Alder wood is also used for making plywood due to its light weight and smooth surface. It is often used for making doors, paneling, and flooring.
- Musical Instruments: Alder wood is used for making musical instruments such as guitars and ukuleles. It is known for its clear tone and medium weight, making it a popular choice among musicians.
- Smoking Wood: Alder wood is a popular choice for smoking fish and other meats due to its mild flavor. It is often used in the Pacific Northwest for smoking salmon.
Alder wood is also used for making paper and charcoal. It is a fast-growing tree and is often used for reforestation projects. Additionally, alder wood is used for making wooden toys, kitchen utensils, and decorative items such as picture frames and candle holders.
Overall, alder wood is a versatile material that can be used in various industries. Its light color, fine texture, and clear tone make it a popular choice among furniture makers and musicians. Additionally, its mild flavor makes it a popular choice for smoking fish and other meats.