What Kind of Wood Do I Use in an Outdoor Aluminum Fire Pit?

Kiln vs. Air-Dried

• Choose either kiln- or air-dried wood for fire pit use. Kiln-dried wood removes water from the wood in a heated chamber at very high temperatures, in some cases above 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This quickly dries freshly cut wood. Another kiln-dried wood benefit is that bugs are removed and the wood is generally clean for safe indoor storage. Air-dried wood is sometimes referred to as seasoned wood. It is dried out using the wind and sun to naturally evaporate excess water inside. Most air-dried wood is sufficient for an aluminum fire pit, but moisture levels vary depending on how long it has been exposed to sunlight or rain.

Hardwoods

• Choosing hardwood for your aluminum fire pit ensures the wood burns evenly and for a long time. Common hardwood choices include maple, oak, hickory, birch and beech. Hardwoods are dense and thick, and burn longer than soft woods and kindling. Add one or two hardwood logs when starting your fire for long-lasting flames. A add softwoods or fire starter to get the fire started, and the hardwoods continue burning long after the initial fire grows dim. Hardwoods to avoid that may not burn evenly and consistently include sycamore, poplar and elm.

Softwoods

• Most aluminum fire pits are small and designed for deck or patio area use. Some pits are designed with other materials, such as copper, iron and stone for a decorative effect. Softwoods are perfect for a small, quick fire in an outdoor entertainment nook. Because they are less dense than most hardwoods, they also produce less heat, which is a good choice for smaller fires in pits. Examples of some fast-burning softwoods include yellow pine, spruce and Douglas fir.

Emerald Ash Borer

• Consider wildlife pests and insects when choosing hardwood for your aluminum pit. One invader of cut wood and trees is the Emerald Ash Borer. The borer is a type of metallic-colored beetle that invades trees by going after the water source and nutrient tissues inside the bark. The result is the death of the tree within 1 to 2 years. The Emerald Ash Borer spread from isolated locations in North America to more widespread areas through infestation. The beetle is easily transported by moving infested firewood from one location to the next. Only buy firewood from reputable dealers and avoid moving wood pieces and kindling from the wild.