When comparing ash and oak firewood, both are excellent choices for heating, but they have distinct characteristics that make each better suited for specific situations. Here’s how they stack up:
1. Heat Output (BTUs)
- Oak: Oak, particularly white oak, is known for its high heat output, providing about 24-28 million BTUs per cord. This makes it one of the best choices for producing sustained, high heat.
- Ash: Ash also burns hot, though slightly less than oak, averaging about 20-24 million BTUs per cord.
Winner: Oak generates more heat, making it ideal for long, cold winters or large spaces that need more warmth.
2. Seasoning Time
- Oak: Oak takes a long time to season, often requiring 1.5 to 2 years to fully dry due to its density.
- Ash: One of ash’s key advantages is its faster seasoning time. It can be ready to burn within 6 months to a year and is sometimes burnable even when green, though seasoned wood is always preferable.
Winner: Ash, because it seasons much faster than oak.
3. Ease of Splitting
- Oak: Oak can be tough to split, especially when it’s dry. It’s dense and fibrous, which can make manual splitting difficult.
- Ash: Ash is generally easier to split, even when dry. It’s a more forgiving wood for those splitting by hand.
Winner: Ash is easier to split, making it more user-friendly if you’re doing the splitting yourself.
4. Burn Time
- Oak: Oak burns longer because of its density. It’s great for overnight burns, especially in wood stoves.
- Ash: While ash also burns for a decent amount of time, it doesn’t last quite as long as oak.
Winner: Oak, for its superior burn time.
5. Lighting and Burning Behavior
- Oak: Oak can be difficult to ignite due to its density and high moisture content when not fully seasoned. However, once it’s burning, it produces steady heat with minimal maintenance.
- Ash: Ash is much easier to light and burns steadily with less effort, even if it hasn’t fully seasoned.
Winner: Ash, for easier lighting.
6. Creosote Production
- Both ash and oak are low creosote producers when properly seasoned, making them good choices for reducing chimney buildup.
Winner: Tie – both are low in creosote when dry.
Conclusion: Which is Better?
- Choose Oak if you need maximum heat output, long burn times, and don’t mind waiting for it to season properly. It’s perfect for overnight burns and provides a lot of heat per log.
- Choose Ash if you need wood that seasons quickly, is easier to handle and split, and provides a strong, steady fire that’s easy to start. Ash is a great choice if you’re looking for convenience and flexibility.
In many cases, the best strategy is to mix ash and oak together. Use ash for quick, easy starts and oak for long-lasting heat.