Yes, black oak can be used as firewood, and it is generally considered a good option, but not the best among oak species. Here’s a detailed look at its characteristics:
Pros of Black Oak as Firewood:
- Decent Heat Output:
- Black oak produces about 24 million BTUs per cord, similar to red oak. This means it provides good heat, making it useful for home heating during the winter months.
- Good Coaling:
- Like most oak species, black oak produces long-lasting coals, making it ideal for wood stoves and fireplaces where extended heat output is important.
- Availability:
- Black oak is common in many parts of the U.S., particularly in the West and Midwest. If you live in these regions, it may be easily accessible, making it a convenient and affordable option.
Cons of Black Oak as Firewood:
- Long Seasoning Time:
- Black oak needs 1 to 2 years to season properly due to its high moisture content. Burning it too early (when it’s green) will lead to excessive smoke and reduced heat.
- Splitting Difficulty:
- Black oak can be tough to split, especially when it’s dry. If you’re splitting by hand, this may be a more challenging wood to process compared to softer woods like ash.
- Tendency to Rot:
- Similar to water oak, black oak tends to rot quickly if not stored properly. It’s important to keep it off the ground and in a well-ventilated area to ensure it seasons well without degrading.
Final Verdict:
Black oak is good firewood, especially if you’re looking for long burn times and solid heat output. However, it requires proper seasoning and storage to perform well. If you have access to other oak species, like white or red oak, they may offer slightly better performance, but black oak will still keep your home warm if prepared correctly.