What Seasoned firewood really means

Seasoned means below 25% moisture

Firewood is Seasoned when its moisture content is below 25%. That's the legal limit for burning in Marlborough's proposed Environment Plan, and in several other regions too. Wood above 25% is Green, however long ago it was cut.

Why it matters

Wet wood burns poorly and smokes. You get a fire that's hard to keep going, and more smoke over the neighbourhood.

Green wood needs time

Freshly cut wood is Green. It typically needs a summer or more to season. That's why spring is a good time to buy Green wood for next winter: stack it, let the summer do the work, and it's ready when the cold comes.

If you need to burn it this winter, ask for Seasoned wood. When you send an Enquiry, tell us when you'll burn it and we'll look for the right Supplier.

Check it with a moisture meter

A cheap moisture meter takes the guesswork out. Split a piece of wood and test the freshly split face. A reading below 25% means it's Seasoned.

It's worth checking a few pieces from a load. A good Supplier won't mind you asking how they know their wood is dry.

The rules in Marlborough

Burning wood above 25% moisture isn't allowed in small solid-fuel burners. See Marlborough's burning rules.