Willow oak is considered an average firewood compared to other oaks. While it shares some traits with other oak species, such as decent heat output, it has several limitations.
Pros of Willow Oak Firewood:
- Moderate Heat Output:
- Willow oak produces a moderate amount of heat, comparable to other medium-quality hardwoods. It provides around 20 to 24 million BTUs per cord, which is sufficient for home heating but not as hot as denser woods like white or red oak.
- Availability:
- In areas where willow oak grows, it can be readily available, especially in the southeastern U.S. This makes it a convenient option if other hardwoods are scarce.
- Burns Steadily:
- Willow oak burns steadily and produces decent coals, though not as long-lasting as denser hardwoods.
Cons of Willow Oak Firewood:
- Lower Burn Time:
- Willow oak burns faster than other oaks due to its slightly lower density. This means you’ll need to add logs more frequently compared to burning red or white oak.
- Seasoning Time:
- Like most oaks, willow oak needs a long seasoning period (about 1 to 2 years) to dry fully. Burning it green results in poor heat output and excessive smoke.
- Splitting Difficulty:
- Willow oak can be hard to split, especially if it’s left to dry before splitting. Splitting it while green is generally easier.
Conclusion:
Willow oak is an okay firewood, but not the best when compared to other oak species. It burns at a moderate heat level and has decent coaling properties but falls short in terms of burn time and ease of use compared to denser hardwoods like white or red oak. If it’s available and seasoned properly, it can serve as decent firewood, but it’s not the top choice for those looking for long-lasting heat.