How to Check Firewood

A variety of wood is used to build fires at home and when in the field. Wood should be properly seasoned to produce a fire that is capable of producing heat for warmth and cooking. Wood is checked during the drying or seasoning process to determine when it is ready to use. Checking wood is essential, especially when it is being purchased rather than seasoned at home.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Gloves
  • Knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the wood stack when purchasing an entire cord of wood. Use a measuring tape to check that the stack is 4 feet wide, 4 feet high and 8 feet long to determine if it is a cord of wood. Look for uniform and tightly packed wood to get the most for your money.

    • 2

      Evaluate the wood to determine the species. Check if the wood is pine, red oak, birch, poplar or another type. Choose wood based on the species as this will determine how easily it splits, the amount of heat produced, ease of starting and the quality of coals produced.

    • 3

      Check the cut end color of the firewood. Look for light to dark gray color on the end of the firewood to indicated that it is properly seasoned and dry.

    • 4

      Look for splitting or checkering on the end of the wood and peeling bark to indicate the wood is dry and ready for use. Check wood throughout the stack instead of only one or two pieces.

    • 5

      Touch the cut end of the wood to check for moisture. Cut through the bark of the firewood and into the wood itself to check if it is green or dried and ready for use.