Kiln-Dried Oak Logs FAQs

1. What Are Kiln-Dried Oak Logs?

Kiln-dried oak logs undergo a specialised drying process in a kiln, which lowers their moisture content to below 20%. This accelerated drying method ensures the oak logs dry out much quicker than naturally air-dried (or seasoned) firewood. Kiln-dried oak provides a hotter and longer burn, making it an excellent fuel source for wood burners, multi-fuel stoves, pizza ovens, firepits and fireplaces.

2. How Are Kiln-Dried Oak Logs Made?

Split oak logs are dried in a heated, temperature-controlled kiln to lower their moisture content. The drying process continues until the logs reach their desired moisture content (typically below 20%). 

At Westdale Logs, we always aim to be sustainable in our log-drying processes. We first dry our freshly cut and split oak in our barn to reduce the initial moisture content before it’s dried further in our unique solar-powered kiln. Our kiln runs off battery stores during the colder months to further reduce our environmental impact. 

3. Why Choose Kiln-Dried Oak Over Seasoned Firewood?

Kiln-dried oak is the best choice for log burners and wood-burning stoves due to its lower moisture content and superior heat output. The kiln-drying process ensures a cleaner, more efficient burn, less smoke and easier lighting than seasoned oak, which might not offer as consistent burning performance. The kiln-drying process also means that the oak logs are dried evenly, so kiln-dried logs won’t slow down when burning due to a wet spot, which can be a problem with seasoned logs. 

4. What Is the Moisture Content of Kiln-Dried Oak?

All our kiln-dried oak at Westdale Logs is Ready to Burn certified with a moisture content below 20%. However, typically the moisture content is slightly lower than this, usually around 18%. Ready to Burn certification means that our oak logs can be burnt in compliance with Air Quality Regulations and can be used in Smoke Control areas such as Sheffield, Chesterfield and Buxton close to the Peak District

5. What’s the Difference Between Kiln-Dried Oak and Kiln-Dried Hardwood?

Oak is a specific type of hardwood that is famous for its high density, slow burn and energy output. In fact, the energy output of oak can be up to five times that of other hardwoods, making it a premium choice for firewood.

At Westdale Logs, our hardwood logs are mostly ash, as well as other high-quality hardwoods, such as beech, cherry and birch. However, oak is far superior when it comes to burn time, so if you’re looking for the best kiln-dried firewood, we would always recommend our kiln-dried oak logs.

6. Are Kiln-Dried Oak Logs Suitable for All Wood-Burning Appliances?

Yes, kiln-dried oak logs can be used in a wide range of wood-burning appliances, including wood burners, multi-fuel stoves, pizza ovens, fireplaces or even outdoor firepits. Because of their high heat, long burn time and minimal smoke output, they can be used both indoors and outdoors and even burnt in Smoke Control Areas

7. How Should I Store Kiln-Dried Oak Logs?

Kiln-dried oak logs should be stored in a dry, indoor environment with low humidity or a covered and well-ventilated outdoor log store. Here are some of our top tips for storing your kiln-dried oak logs, both indoors and outdoors:

  • Either a garage or a shed can be a great place to store your kiln-dried oak logs, as they will offer sufficient protection from the elements and keep your logs dry. You should ensure that your logs are elevated off the ground to allow for plenty of air circulation and prevent moisture from building up. We recommend stacking your oak logs in a criss-cross pattern to ensure adequate ventilation.
  • If you have the space, a purpose-built log store is the best location to store your oak logs. It will offer protection from rain, but also allow for plenty of airflow. Most log stores have a raised floor to keep your logs off the ground and open sides for air circulation. We recommend putting your log store in a sheltered spot that gets plenty of sunlight. 

8. Where Do You Deliver Your Kiln-Dried Oak Logs To?

At Westdale Logs, we offer free local delivery to Sheffield, Chesterfield and the Hope Valley. All our oak logs are delivered in our unique vented bulk bags to encourage airflow and prevent your kiln-dried logs from getting damp. Plus, our logs are delivered with a complimentary rain poncho on rainy days to ensure they always stay dry.

We aim to deliver all orders within two weeks, but this lead time can be increased in extremely busy periods. You can view our current lead time at the top of our website. If you need logs urgently, we recommend our Kiln Dried Hardwood Bulk Bag with Next Working Day Delivery.

9. Is Your Kiln-Dried Oak Sustainable?

At Westdale Logs, we strongly believe in sustainable practices. Every year, we source a portion of our oak logs from the nearby Peak Park or the National Trust. All our oak and hardwood logs are dried in our sustainable solar-powered kiln with battery stores used over the winter months. When you buy from our friendly team, you can be sure you’re always making an eco-friendly choice.

10. What Size Are Your Oak Logs?

Our oak logs are between 8 and 12 inches in length, making them suitable for a wide range of uses, including wood-burning stoves, multi-fuel stoves, firepits and fireplaces.

11. How Long Does Kiln-Dried Oak Burn For?

Our high-quality kiln-dried oak logs burn for a considerable duration of time, typically over two hours per log. Oak logs are also known for their high heat output and can produce around 5.35 kW of heat.