The Ultimate Guide to Redgum Firewood in Hastings: Optimal Moisture Levels and Seasoning Tips

Mar 21
18:23

2024

Jag Cruse

Jag Cruse

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In the chilly winters of Hastings, nothing beats the warmth of a crackling fire. For those seeking a reliable source of heat, river redgum firewood emerges as a top choice. This eucalyptus species is not only abundant but also burns efficiently when properly dried and seasoned. Understanding the moisture content and adhering to drying guidelines are crucial for optimal firewood preparation.

The Importance of Moisture Content in Firewood

Freshly harvested redgum firewood from Hastings is naturally saturated with water. The moisture level of the wood is expressed as a percentage of its dry weight,The Ultimate Guide to Redgum Firewood in Hastings: Optimal Moisture Levels and Seasoning Tips Articles which is determined after all moisture has been eliminated through heating. Ideally, firewood should have a moisture content below 25% to burn effectively. Green wood can range from 40% to a staggering 200% moisture, influenced by factors such as age, species, and growth conditions. For example, young River Red Gum typically has a moisture content around 50%, making it too wet for immediate use as firewood.

Drying Guidelines for Redgum Firewood

To achieve the best burning results, redgum firewood must be dried to below 25% moisture content. In Hastings, this process can take up to two years, depending on the wood's dimensions and drying conditions. Here are three essential guidelines for drying redgum firewood:

  1. Stack for Ventilation: Arrange the firewood to promote airflow between and within the stacks, as well as underneath.
  2. Weather Protection: Shield the wood from harsh weather, particularly heavy rainfall.
  3. Sun and Wind Exposure: Place the wood in an area where it can benefit from sunlight and wind, which accelerates drying.

Properly stored under cover, redgum firewood can reach a moisture content as low as 12%, while wood dried in the open air typically retains around 30% moisture.

The Seasoning Process

The seasoning of redgum firewood is influenced by its size, storage method, and prevailing weather conditions. Interestingly, firewood that is occasionally moistened on the surface tends to dry faster than wood kept in dry conditions. This is because the surface moisture maintains open cellular pathways, allowing internal moisture to move to the surface and evaporate.

About Bittern Garden Supplies

When selecting firewood, it's essential to be discerning. Bittern Garden Supplies, a leading provider of landscaping and gardening supplies in Hastings, offers top-quality redgum firewood. Approximately 80% of our redgum firewood comes from environmentally friendly clean-up operations. Our licensed suppliers use resistance moisture meters to accurately assess the moisture content of our firewood, ensuring that you receive wood that is fully seasoned, partly seasoned, or green, as per your needs. We also provide expert advice on how long to store your wood before it's ready to burn. For those looking to enhance their garden's aesthetic, consider our red gum sleepers, which add a touch of elegance with their rich red hue. Visit Bittern Garden Supplies for the best deals on firewood year-round.

Interesting Stats and Facts

  • According to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), firewood is the second most common use of wood in Australia, with approximately 6 million cubic meters consumed annually.
  • A study by the University of Tasmania found that properly seasoned firewood can produce up to 50% more heat than unseasoned wood, highlighting the importance of the drying process.
  • The CSIRO reports that burning firewood with a moisture content below 20% can significantly reduce particulate emissions, contributing to better air quality.

For more information on the benefits of properly seasoned firewood, you can visit the CSIRO website.