When it comes to choosing the right firewood for your wood-burning stove, it’s essential to consider not only the type of wood but also its properties and qualities. One often-overlooked option is sweetgum, a hardwood tree found in many parts of North America. In this article, we’ll explore the suitability of sweetgum for firewood and provide you with all the technical details you need to make an informed decision.
The Sweetgum Tree
Botanical Name: Liquidambar styraciflua
Sweetgum trees are known for their distinctive star-shaped leaves and spiky fruit balls, which can be a bit of a nuisance in your yard but are worth considering for your wood-burning stove. These trees are native to the southeastern United States but have been planted and naturalized in other regions as well.
Characteristics of Sweetgum Firewood
1. Density and Hardness
Sweetgum is classified as a hardwood, and it ranks somewhere in the middle when it comes to density and hardness. It’s not as dense as oak or hickory, but it’s denser than softwoods like pine. This characteristic makes sweetgum firewood a good choice, as it will produce a decent amount of heat without burning too quickly.
2. BTU (British Thermal Unit) Content
The BTU content of sweetgum firewood is approximately 24 million BTUs per cord. While this is lower than some other hardwoods, such as oak or hickory, it still provides a respectable amount of heat when burned in a wood-burning stove.
3. Seasoning and Drying Time
One thing to keep in mind is that sweetgum has a high moisture content when freshly cut. To make it suitable for burning, sweetgum firewood needs to be seasoned properly. This process involves allowing the wood to dry out for at least 6-12 months. Make sure it has a moisture content of around 20% or less before using it in your stove. Properly seasoned sweetgum will burn more efficiently and produce less creosote, reducing the risk of chimney fires.
4. Burning Characteristics
Sweetgum is known for producing a moderate amount of flame and heat. It’s a good choice for a wood-burning stove, as it will give you a nice, steady burn. It’s also relatively easy to ignite, which is a plus if you want to get your fire going quickly.
5. Aroma and Smoke
One of the unique characteristics of sweetgum firewood is its pleasant aroma when burning. It releases a sweet, spicy scent that many people find enjoyable. However, like most hardwoods, sweetgum does produce some smoke. Ensure your wood-burning stove is properly maintained to minimize smoke emissions.
Using Sweetgum Safely
When using sweetgum firewood, it’s essential to follow some safety guidelines:
Proper Stove Maintenance: Ensure your wood-burning stove is in good working condition, with a clean and clear chimney or flue.
Season the Wood: As mentioned earlier, season your sweetgum firewood for at least 6-12 months to reduce moisture content.
Storage: Store your firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent it from absorbing excess moisture.
Safety Screen: Consider using a safety screen or door for your stove to prevent sparks from escaping.
Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sweetgum can be an excellent choice for firewood, especially if it’s properly seasoned and used in a well-maintained wood-burning stove. Its moderate density and heat output, combined with a pleasant aroma when burning, make it a viable option for heating your home. Just remember to follow safety guidelines, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of sweetgum firewood in your wood-burning stove.