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Larch/Tamarack/ Douglas Fir Firewood

The Densest of the Softwood

Premium Softwood Summary

Tamarack/Larch/Douglas fir are considered the highest density coniferous trees for firewood, even considered better than birch by some. Premium softwood produces good heat value, moderate amounts of smoke, minimal snapping and crackling, and leaves little ash. It is easy to split and easy to start.  It is considered a great all-round user-friendly firewood for a mid-level price point.

Larch/Douglas Fir/Tamarack Burning Characteristics

Premium softwood is a diverse year round firewood that can be used indoor or outdoors. Perfect for sharing memories around the fire. As for characteristics premium softwood is a high end wood option. You get a strong heat and burn time at 80%. Due to its density you have a low/moderate smoke and popping rating at 40% each. It is a high resin wood that does emit a very distinct aroma gaining itself a rating of 80%. As a softwood it does still produce a fair amount of ash with a 40% rating. 

High Heat Output

Low Popping

Moderate Smoke

Is Larch/Tamarack/Douglas Fir good firewood?

Yes, Larch/Tamarack/Douglas Fir are considered a very good firewood, especially for those seeking a balance between ease of use, heat output, and availability. They provide a respectable amount of heat, making it a solid choice for both heating and recreational fires.

One of the key advantages of this wood is its ease of splitting and handling. The wood has moderate weight and a straight grain, which makes splitting logs much easier compared to denser hardwoods. This is particularly beneficial for those who are enthusiasts that like to cut their wood smaller. They light quickly, making it an excellent choice for starting fires or for use in kindling.

In terms of heat output, Larch/Tamarack/Douglas Fir produces a moderate amount of heat, with a BTU rating of approximately 17 to 20 million BTUs per cord. While this is lower than some of the denser hardwoods, it is still sufficient for keeping your home warm. It’s also ideal for outdoor fire pits or campfires, where you might prioritize a bright, lively flame over long-lasting heat.

Does Larch/Tamarack/Douglas Fir burn clean?

Yes, Douglas Fir is considered a clean-burning firewood when properly seasoned. One of the key factors that contribute to its clean burn is its relatively low resin and sap content compared to other softwoods like Pine. This means that when Douglas Fir is dry, it produces minimal smoke and creosote, making it a safer option for your chimney or stove. The lower sap levels also reduce the amount of sticky residue that can build up inside your fireplace or flue, decreasing the risk of chimney fires.

Additionally, Douglas Fir burns with a bright, consistent flame and produces a moderate amount of ash, making cleanup easier. However, it’s important to ensure that the wood is adequately seasoned—typically for 6 to 12 months—before burning. Freshly cut or unseasoned Douglas Fir can still contain too much moisture, leading to inefficient burning, excess smoke, and more creosote buildup.

Is Douglas Fir Good for Indoor or Outdoor Burning?

Yes, they are an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor burning, thanks to their versatile burning characteristics.

Indoor Burning:
Larch/Tamarack/Douglas Fir are well-suited for indoor fireplaces and wood stoves. When properly seasoned, they burn cleanly, producing minimal smoke and creosote, which is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient indoor heating system. Its relatively low sap content compared to other softwoods like Spruce helps reduce creosote buildup in chimneys, making it a safer option for regular indoor use. Additionally, they ignite quickly and burn with a bright, lively flame, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. While it may not burn as long as denser hardwoods like Oak, it still provides consistent heat and is ideal for those who prioritize easy fire-starting and a clean burn.

Outdoor Burning:
Larch/Tamarack/Douglas Fir are equally well-suited for outdoor use in fire pits, chimineas, or campfires. Their quick ignition and vibrant flames make it an excellent choice for outdoor fires where you want to get a fire going quickly and enjoy the ambiance of crackling wood. The moderate heat output is perfect for warming up on cool evenings or creating a cozy atmosphere at outdoor gatherings. Their pleasant, natural aroma adds to the outdoor experience without overwhelming the senses, making it a popular option for recreational fires. While it may burn faster than hardwoods, it’s great for shorter fires where you don’t need super long-lasting heat.

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