Firewood 101: The Best Wood to Burn In Your Baton Rouge Fireplace or Fire Pit

There’s nothing quite like the warmth, crackle, and aroma of a real wood fire on a cool Louisiana evening. Whether it’s glowing inside your living room fireplace or flickering in your backyard fire pit, the right firewood makes all the difference in how your fire burns and how it feels.

Choose the Right Type of Firewood

The firewood you burn affects everything from how easily your fire starts to how cleanly it burns. Using the right local hardwoods can help your fire burn longer and keep your chimney cleaner.

Here’s what to look for:

• Density: Dense hardwoods like oak and hickory burn hotter and longer than softer woods.
• Moisture content: Seasoned (dry) wood burns cleanly, while wet or “green” wood creates smoke and buildup.
• Aroma: Different woods release distinct scents that set the tone for your indoor or outdoor space.
• Efficiency: Quality hardwood reduces creosote buildup and improves overall burn performance.

Local Hardwoods for Baton Rouge Fireplaces

Oak

Oak is one of the most reliable firewood options. This dense wood burns slowly and evenly, producing long-lasting heat. Because oak is readily available throughout Louisiana, it’s an easy and affordable go-to for most homeowners.

Hickory

Hickory is known for its rich aroma and strong heat output. It’s perfect for those who love a fire that burns hot and lasts for hours.

Pecan

Pecan has a subtle, nutty scent and steady burn, making it ideal for smaller indoor fireplaces or backyard fire pits. Pecan trees are common across South Louisiana, making this a local favorite for both heat and aroma.

Maple

Maple burns evenly and provides a gentle, sweet fragrance. It’s great for mild Baton Rouge evenings when you want a shorter, relaxing fire.

Firewoods to Avoid in Louisiana

Not all wood is safe or efficient to burn. Some varieties can create excessive smoke or release toxins that damage your fireplace or chimney.

• Pine, cedar, and cypress: High in resin, which can pop and crackle excessively while creating heavy creosote buildup.
• Driftwood: Contains salt that can corrode metal fireplace parts and release toxic fumes.
• Treated or painted wood: Emits harmful chemicals when burned.

Stick with seasoned, natural hardwoods that have been sourced locally for the cleanest, safest, and most satisfying experience.

How to Season and Store Firewood in Baton Rouge’s Climate

Freshly cut wood, often called “green wood”, is still full of sap. Properly seasoned firewood should have a moisture content below 20%, allowing it to burn more efficiently, generate better heat output, and produce less smoke.

Louisiana’s humidity can make it challenging to keep firewood dry, but proper storage keeps your wood ready for use when cooler weather arrives.

To prepare it for use:

1. Split your logs to less than six inches in diameter for faster drying.
2. Stack logs loosely on a raised surface, such as a wood rack or pallets, to provide adequate airflow.
3. Cover the top of your pile with a tarp or metal cover to keep out moisture, but leave the sides open for ventilation.
4. Let wood dry for a minimum of 6 months to a year. For better results, allow wood to season up to 24 months.
5. Stacking your wood in a sunny area can help expedite the drying process.

If you’re ready to make the most of your fireplace or outdoor living space, visit Casual Creations in Baton Rouge. From fireplace tools and log racks to outdoor fire pits and accessories, our showroom has everything you need to keep the fire burning safely and beautifully all season long.