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Frequently asked questions
1. What are the most common mistakes when buying firewood?
Our goal is for every customer to be totally satisfied with their purchase. If this isn't the case, let us know and we'll do our best to work with you to make it right.
2. How can I tell if my firewood is truly dry? Simple tests at home
Dry wood burns hotter, cleaner, and produces less smoke. To test at home, knock two logs together—dry wood makes a sharp cracking sound, while wet wood sounds dull. You can also split a log and check the inner surface: dry wood is lighter in color and may have small cracks at the ends. A moisture meter is the most accurate tool, aiming for 20% or less moisture content.
3. How much firewood do I need to get through a Quebec winter?
The amount depends on your home’s insulation, fireplace size, and winter severity. On average, a Quebec household using a standard fireplace consumes 15 to 25 face cords per winter. Keep in mind that hardwood burns longer than softwood, so plan accordingly. Buying in bulk and storing properly ensures you won’t run out during cold spells.
4. Hardwood or softwood: which is best for your home, fireplace, and budget?
Store firewood off the ground on a pallet or rack, covered at the top but open on the sides for airflow. Keep it away from walls to prevent moisture buildup. Proper stacking with ends facing outward allows air to circulate, accelerating drying and reducing the risk of mold or rot.
5. How should I store firewood to maximize drying and prevent mold?
Hardwoods like maple, oak, and birch burn longer and produce more heat, ideal for home fireplaces and wood stoves. Softwoods like spruce and pine ignite quickly and are cheaper, making them suitable for quick fires, outdoor fireplaces, or kindling. The best choice balances your budget, heating needs, and storage space.
6. The complete guide to Quebec tree species: maple, birch, oak, fir, larch, and more
Each wood species has unique burning properties. Maple and oak are dense, long-burning hardwoods. Birch ignites quickly and produces a pleasant aroma. Softwoods like fir and pine burn faster and are ideal for starting fires. Knowing your wood species helps you optimize heating efficiency, save money, and enjoy a clean, steady burn.
7. Why is moisture content the most important factor in combustion?
Even high-quality wood burns poorly if it’s wet. Moisture lowers heat output, creates excessive smoke, and produces creosote buildup in chimneys. Aim for firewood under 20% moisture content. Proper drying, storage, and occasional testing ensure safe, efficient fires.
8. How can I save on firewood by buying in bulk or pallets?
Buying individual bundles is convenient but expensive. Purchasing by the face cord or pallet significantly reduces cost per cord. Many suppliers also offer seasonal discounts for bulk orders. Storing large quantities properly allows you to buy early in the season and avoid price spikes during winter.
9. What is the real cost of firewood in Quebec? Understanding prices and avoiding scams
Prices vary by species, dryness, and delivery. Expect $120–$180 per face cord for quality hardwood in Quebec. Avoid suppliers offering deals that seem too good—they often sell wet or inferior wood. Always ask about moisture content, delivery, and stacking fees. Knowledge of the market protects your wallet.
10. How to start a fire that burns long without producing smoke
Use dry hardwood, split logs, and proper stacking in your fireplace. Begin with small kindling arranged in a teepee or log cabin style. Light gradually, and allow airflow to feed the fire. Avoid burning wet wood or overloaded fireplaces, which cause smoke and inefficient burning.
11. Which firewood should I choose for outdoor fireplaces, wood stoves, camping, or cabins?
For outdoor fires, softwoods like pine or spruce ignite quickly, perfect for warmth and ambiance. Wood stoves and indoor fireplaces require dense hardwoods for long-lasting heat. For camping, select lightweight logs that are easy to carry but still burn cleanly. Adapt your choice to your setting and safety requirements.
12. How can I recognize a good firewood supplier in Quebec?
A reliable supplier provides clear information about species, moisture content, and pricing. They deliver on time, can supply in bulk, and have good customer reviews. Avoid suppliers who refuse to answer questions about their wood quality or try to upsell low-quality bundles. Trust and transparency are key.
13. Camping guide: how to choose the perfect logs for easy, long-lasting fires
Select lightweight, dry wood that lights quickly but sustains heat. Split logs are easier to manage and stack in campfires. Mix softwood for kindling with small hardwood logs for longer burns. Always follow safety rules and check local fire regulations.
14. Why does wood sometimes burn poorly? Moisture, species, cut, and storage
Poor combustion usually comes from wet wood, soft species that burn too fast, logs cut too large or small, or improper storage. Ensure wood is properly dried, split to suitable sizes, and stored off the ground with airflow. Choosing the right species for your fireplace type also improves performance.