🔥 Which Logs Should You Buy? Birch vs Alder vs Ash vs Oak
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🔥 Which Logs Should You Buy? Birch vs Alder vs Ash vs Oak
When it comes to choosing firewood, not all logs are created equal. Each type burns differently, gives off a unique flame pattern, and has its own ideal use. At GD LOGS, all our wood is sustainably sourced, kiln-dried, and ready to burn — but understanding the difference helps you pick what’s right for your stove or fire pit.
Birch
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Easy to light, even in smaller stoves.
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Gives a bright, lively flame and a lovely sweet aroma.
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Burns hot and fast, so it’s great for quick heat or mixing with slower-burning logs like Oak.
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Ideal for: Indoor stoves and pizza ovens.
Summary: Birch = Quick, hot, and bright.
Alder
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Slightly softer than Birch, meaning it lights easily but burns faster.
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Produces a gentle, even heat with minimal smoke.
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Often used for smoking food because of its mild, pleasant scent.
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Ideal for: Smaller stoves, summer burning, or fire pits.
Summary: Alder = Clean, mild, and easy-going.
Ash
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Considered the best all-round firewood in Britain.
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Burns steadily with a strong heat and very little smoke.
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Produces a consistent flame that’s easy to control and keeps your stove running efficiently.
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Ideal for: Everyday stove use and long, consistent heating.
Summary: Ash = Reliable, balanced, and long-lasting.
Oak
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The densest and longest-burning hardwood.
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Burns slowly with a steady, high heat output.
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Needs a very hot firebed to start properly — best mixed with faster-burning logs like Birch or Ash.
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Ideal for: Large stoves, longer burning and cold winter nights.
Summary: Oak = Slow, steady, and powerful.
🪵 Which Should You Choose?
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For quick, easy lighting → go for Birch or Alder.
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For everyday stove use → Ash is unbeatable.
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For long heat → Oak is king.
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Or mix them to get the perfect balance of flame and burn time.
All our kiln-dried logs are Ready to Burn certified, low in moisture, and available for collection or delivery across the North East.