The Ultimate Guide to Ash Firewood – Is Ash the Best Firewood for Log Burners?

Ash firewood is widely c

onsidered one of the best firewoods for log burners in the UK thanks to its strong heat output, easy lighting, and clean burn. Whether you’re using a wood-burning stove, open fire, pizza oven, or outdoor fire pit, ash logs are often regarded as the ideal all-round hardwood firewood.

But is ash really worth buying over other firewood species like oak or birch?

At JPS Firewood & Forestry, we supply and process firewood across Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Northampton, and surrounding Midlands areas. Ash consistently remains one of the most popular choices amongst both new and experienced wood-burning customers due to its reliable performance and versatility.

If you’re considering buying kiln dried ash logs, here’s everything you need to know.

What Is Ash Firewood?

Ash is a hardwood species commonly used for firewood throughout the UK. It has built a strong reputation over the years because of its excellent burning qualities and naturally lower moisture content compared to many other hardwood species.

When properly seasoned or kiln dried below 20% moisture content, ash produces:

• strong heat output,

• steady flames,

• long burn times,

• and cleaner combustion.

Ash is often described as one of the best “all-rounder” firewoods available because it performs well in almost every type of appliance.

It’s suitable for:

• wood-burning stoves,

• open fires,

• multi-fuel stoves,

• pizza ovens,

• chimineas,

• and outdoor cooking setups.

  
  

Why Is Ash Firewood So Popular?

One of the biggest reasons ash is so popular is its balance.

Some firewood species burn extremely hot but too quickly. Others burn slowly but can be difficult to light. Ash sits comfortably in the middle, offering:

• reliable heat,

• easy lighting,

• and consistent burning performance.

In our experience supplying firewood across the Midlands, ash is one of the most requested species by customers looking for dependable everyday firewood.

Advantages of Ash Firewood

Excellent Heat Output

Ash firewood produces strong, steady heat that makes it ideal for heating homes during colder months.

Because ash is a dense hardwood, it burns efficiently and provides excellent warmth without burning away too quickly.

Many stove owners prefer ash because it creates a comfortable, controllable fire suitable for long evenings indoors.

Easy To Light

Compared to denser hardwoods such as oak, ash is generally easier to ignite.

This is especially true when using properly kiln dried ash logs with moisture levels below 20%.

Lower moisture content means:

• faster ignition,

• cleaner flames,

• and less struggle getting the fire established.

This makes ash a great choice for both experienced stove users and people new to burning firewood.

Long, Consistent Burn

Ash burns slowly and steadily, meaning less constant refuelling throughout the evening.

Rather than producing short bursts of intense heat, ash tends to create a more balanced and controlled burn, making it ideal for:

• wood-burning stoves,

• evening fires,

• and daily home heating.

  
  

Cleaner Burning Firewood

Properly dried ash firewood produces:

• less smoke,

• fewer emissions,

• and less soot buildup.

This helps:

• keep stove glass cleaner,

• reduce chimney deposits,

• and improve airflow inside your stove.

Burning dry logs is one of the most important factors in maintaining stove efficiency and reducing chimney maintenance.

Versatile Hardwood Logs

Ash is one of the most versatile firewood species available in the UK market.

It performs exceptionally well in:

• log burners,

• open fireplaces,

• outdoor ovens,

• and fire pits.

Whether you’re heating your home or cooking outdoors, ash delivers reliable results.

Are There Any Downsides To Ash Firewood?

Slightly Higher Cost

Because ash is highly sought after, it can sometimes cost slightly more than mixed hardwood loads or softer species.

However, many customers feel the improved burning performance and convenience justify the price difference.

Seasonal Availability

Due to increasing demand and ongoing pressures within UK timber supply, ash can occasionally become harder to source during peak winter months.

This is one reason many suppliers now offer mixed hardwood loads containing:

• ash,

• oak,

• birch,

• and other hardwood species.

  
  

Ash vs Oak Firewood – Which Is Better?

This is one of the most common questions we get asked.

Both are excellent hardwood firewoods, but they burn differently.

Ash Firewood

• Easier to light

• Faster heat output

• Cleaner flame

• Great all-round performance

  
  

Oak Firewood

• Longer burn time

• Produces long-lasting embers

• Excellent overnight heat

• Can be harder to light if not properly dried

Many experienced stove users actually prefer using both together.

Ash is excellent for quick, reliable heat, while oak is ideal for maintaining longer-lasting fires overnight.

Is Kiln Dried Ash Better Than Seasoned Ash?

Both can perform very well when properly processed and stored.

However, kiln dried ash logs usually offer:

• lower moisture content,

• cleaner burning,

• easier lighting,

• and more consistent performance.

At JPS Firewood & Forestry, our kiln dried firewood is dried to below 20% moisture content to ensure a clean and efficient burn suitable for modern EcoDesign stoves and open fires.

How To Store Ash Firewood Properly

Even high-quality kiln dried logs can absorb moisture if stored incorrectly.

To keep ash logs performing properly:

• store them in a dry, ventilated area,

• avoid direct ground contact,

• allow airflow around the logs,

• and protect them from heavy rain.

Proper storage helps maintain low moisture levels and improves burning efficiency.

Common Mistakes People Make With Ash Firewood

Burning Logs Too Soon

Even ash, which naturally contains less moisture than many species, still needs proper drying before burning.

Wet logs:

• produce more smoke,

• create poor heat,

• and increase chimney deposits.

  
  

Poor Storage

Leaving logs fully exposed to rain or stacking them without airflow can quickly increase moisture levels again.

Good storage is just as important as proper drying.

Overloading The Stove

Many people overload their stove trying to maximise heat output.

This can reduce airflow and actually lower burning efficiency.

Using smaller, consistent loads often creates a cleaner and hotter fire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ash Firewood

Is ash firewood good for log burners?

Yes. Ash is considered one of the best firewoods for wood-burning stoves thanks to its strong heat output, clean burn, and ease of lighting.

Does ash firewood burn longer than birch?

Generally yes. Ash is denser than birch, meaning it usually burns longer while still being relatively easy to light.

Is ash better than oak firewood?

Neither is necessarily “better” — they simply burn differently.

Ash lights easier and burns cleaner, while oak burns longer and produces excellent embers.

What moisture should ash firewood be?

For efficient burning, ash firewood should ideally be below 20% moisture content.

Is kiln dried ash worth the money?

For many households, absolutely.

Kiln dried ash provides:

• cleaner burning,

• easier lighting,

• better efficiency,

• and more consistent performance.

  
  

Is Ash Firewood Worth Buying?

In our opinion — definitely.

Ash remains one of the best all-round firewood species available in the UK thanks to its:

• reliable heat output,

• versatility,

• clean burn,

• and ease of use.

  

Whether you’re heating your home every evening through winter or simply enjoying the occasional fire, ash is a dependable choice trusted by stove owners across the country.

Browse our full range of firewood and kiln dried logs for local delivery across Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Northampton, and surrounding Midlands areas.