When a tree is cut it is high in moisture. It can be left to dry out naturally or the process can be speeded up by cutting into smaller sections and dried in a kiln. This is how we do it at Salterford Logs:
- A tree is delivered to Salterford Farm from sustainable sources. We only process hardwood because we know it will produce a better fire for you.
- Trees are left to dry outside for around 12 months.
- They are then cut into the logs. The logs, still ‘wet’ are then stacked into cages.
- The next stage is drying in the kiln. The cages of wet logs are placed in the kiln. It’s about the size of a shipping container and the heat is produced by burning waste wood in the boiler. That’s wood that would otherwise clog up landfill (or even be used by unscrupulous log traders) It’s warm in the kiln and the smell is delicious. If only you could bottle it -‘Kiln pour l’homme is surely a winner?
- It takes around 3 weeks to remove enough moisture before we allow a log to be sold. A moisture content reading of below 20% is ideal. The lower the better. Kiln dried logs are therefore low in moisture resulting in quick ignition and efficient burning.
- The kiln dried logs are then stored in a large shed with plenty of ventilation. All ready for delivery.
- Your order is then packed, loaded and delivered. You know you are going to get the best quality logs, all ready to burn exactly when you want them.
Why kiln drying matters
Freshly cut timber contains a lot of moisture. Wet logs can be difficult to light, produce less useful heat and create more smoke.
Kiln drying removes much of that moisture, helping the logs to:
Light more easily
Burn more efficiently
Produce consistent heat
Create less smoke than wet wood
Stay ready for use when stored correctly
Sourced
We bring suitable hardwood timber to Salterford Farm from sustainable local sources.
Split & prepared
The timber is cut and split into practical logs before being stacked into drying cages.
Kiln dried
We place the cages inside our kiln and gradually reduce the moisture content. Waste wood helps fuel the kiln rather than being sent to landfill.
Stored & delivered
Once dried, the logs are kept in a well-ventilated covered store until we prepare your order.
Ready to order?
Give Keith or Tom a call to discuss what you need and arrange your collection or delivery.