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Here Is Why Log Burner Can Be Your Best Friend This Winter!

Winters are just around the corner, and so are the festivities of Christmas and New Year. Will these celebrations come ahead, and of course the chilly weather, you wonder to think what is that one thing that will add cosiness yet warmth to your place. Well, we might have one thing that will serve your booth needs. Drum roll- log burner!

Have no idea what it is or why you need it? This blog has got you covered!

What Is A Log Burner?

In simpler words, a log burner, otherwise known as a wood-burning stove or fireplace, has the heating capability to burn wood fuel and wood-derived biomass fuel. Now you might think that this is way too old school for you, right? But guess what, in an era of advancements where you could completely rely on gas or electric units for convenience, the old school log burner still stands high with its own charm and romantic aura.

How Does A Log Burner Work?

The certified wood burner fireplaces are very efficient. This means that they consume less wood and produce greater heat. So they either rely on the combustion process or catalytic combustion to light up the logs. Without getting into the technical details, log burners work by those various technologies to transform the gases into heat that would have otherwise contributed to air pollution.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Log Burner At Home?

Still not convinced to have a wood-burning fireplace at home? Well, we have a list of benefits to look at:

  • They Have Become Eco-Friendly

Many users who have shifted to other heating systems claim that log burner is not eco-friendly. However, the latest technologies being used in the wood-burning fireplaces say otherwise. They are, of course, not 100% environment friendly, but they are now made of technologies and materials that aren’t as harmful to the surroundings as they were used to be.

  • They Are Low-Maintenance

Some put just shove off the idea of investing in log burners due to just the mere fact that they require too much cleaning. However, apart from collecting and disposing of the ashes from the firebox, there is nothing much you are needed to go.

  • Cost-Efficient

Among all the benefits, how can we forget not to mention that they are pocket-friendly as well? Are you wondering how?
In comparison to gas fuel, the log burners are very cheaper.

  • Add To The Beauty In The Room

Honestly, we were saving the most important benefit for the end. Can you even begin to imagine the scenery that is added to use living area with the wood-burning fireplace? It adds its distant aroma, which is very pleasant. Secondly, it acts as a focal point in the room and attracts families and friends together near it.

Definitely the most good-looking spot in your living room!

Wakeford’s fireplace in Surrey is your go-to option to get your hands on the premium quality wood-burning fireplace. We offer you a wide range of product options with the best installation services. This means if you choose us, you are paying for both convenience and quality both.

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What are the best woods for your fireplace

It is safe to assume that all types of wood burn, but it might surprise you to know that not all woods burn the same way. Some will burn at a higher temperature, some woods will burn at a slower rate and some are cleaner to burn than others. Depending on how much resin and sap they have, some woods will clog up and dirty your chimney faster. There will be some woods that are considered “the best” for burning in a fireplace; those that burn hot and produce more heat at a steady rate. Let’s take a look at the different types of woods available for your fireplace…

Hardwood for Fireplaces

For those looking for a high quality burn with a longer burn time, hardwoods are the best choice. Most fruit trees or trees such as; birch, ash or oak are great examples of hardwoods that are excellent for burning in your stove or fireplace. They will usually burn for a hotter and long time and they are cleaner to handle than other woods, having a relatively small amount of sap in them. However, most hardwoods will be more expensive than their softwood counterparts and are more prone to leaving stony residue leftover in the ash. Some hardwoods like birch will retain a lot of moisture, this will create more smoke when burning it. If this is a concern for your fireplace, it is something to be mindful of when considering birch.

Burning Softwood in Fireplaces

The biggest benefit of choosing a softwood is that softwoods are typically cheaper to buy. The best softwoods to consider are; alder, balsam, cedar, fir, pine and spruce. Typically, softwood will burn faster than hardwood and leave finer ash. A softwood will make more of a mess however and, especially pine will cause creosote (creosote is a tar-like soot substance that builds up on the walls of your chimney when the byproducts of your wood get burnt off) to build up faster in your chimney.

Woods Not To Burn In Your Fireplace

Recovering scraps of wood or salvaging firewood can be a great low-budget option for those looking to save some money while still enjoying their wood burning stove or fireplace. However, not knowing the origin of the wood, what foreign objects may be inside it or if it has been treated with any chemicals or products create a risk when it is burnt. Avoid painted or varnished woods, plywood and MDF will be filled with dangerous chemicals and driftwood may be too wet for a long time to use and have nails or other metal objects inside it.

Get in touch

For more information about fireplaces or advice on your fireplace and wood burning stove options, get in touch with our team today and we will be happy to talk to you about your options. Give our team a call on 01483 223900 or email us at info@wakefordfireplaces.com. See our full contact details here or give the showroom a visit to talk to our team in person.

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Traditional Vs Modern Fireplaces

If you’re in the market for a new fireplace or you want to replace your existing fireplace, you will be met with the decision between purchasing a traditional fireplace or a more modern option. Now, there are going to be benefits to both options, but you’ll need to make an informed decision about which is best for you and your home. Some of the traditional fireplaces may not be suited for how your home is built, and some modern fireplaces may have features or operate in a way that doesn’t match your style. Here is some advice on what you can look for between traditional and modern fireplaces.

Modern and Traditional Fireplace Controls

Typically modern appliances and devices come with a new level of convenience and usability; fireplaces are no exception. Having a simple control system or even operated by a remote or mobile app, a modern fireplace brings a level of convenience that a more traditional fireplace simply won’t be able to have. You’ll be able to control the intensity of the fire, brightness and even set it to a timer. With the advancement of technology and the integration of smart apps and home automation, a modern fireplace is more future-proof and a better option for anyone interested in gadgets.

Unlike their modern counterparts, a traditional fireplace will have to be controlled manually, the user simply placing the wood into the fireplace to burn. It’s not as flashing as the modern fireplace but if you want straightforward and easy to use, then the traditional fireplace is the choice for you. There is something to be said for the satisfaction of having your own logs stacked and lighting the fireplace, as good as the modern fireplaces are, a traditional fireplace is simple yet effective.

gas fire

Space and Safety of Fireplaces

Other than how they practically operate, the space taken up by the fireplaces and how safe they are will be the defining qualities for anyone looking to make a purchase. Traditional fireplaces aren’t very efficient when it comes to space and some types of properties won’t be able to have them at all. They need a lot of space and additional space needs to accommodate logs and pieces of wood. Additionally, because of the nature of a traditional fireplace, they aren’t considered as safe as modern fireplaces. However, the output you get from a traditional fireplace and the aesthetics of them is alluring to many and given the right situation, a great addition to a home.

Modern fireplaces are generally considered more efficient, customisable and compact compared to traditional options. They can be very compact and built into most rooms you’d want a fireplace in. Because of this they are an option growing in popularity. They’re typically considered safer too; no need for large fire guards or running the risk of catching fire to anything around the room – being powered by gas or electricity.

Get In Touch

Ultimately the choice falls down more into a personal preference of the person making the purchase; given that your home is suited for a traditional fireplace, many people like to go for this option as it creates a fantastic atmosphere and the genuine heat produced by an actual fire is hard to replace. The Modern fireplaces come with more options for those looking to implement some style into their choice. They’re able to fit into smaller rooms and run at a cheaper cost, don’t require additional space for logs and burning material and have considerably lower risks of danger and damage. If you want to know more about both traditional and modern fireplaces, get in touch with our team today.

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The Best Wood Burning Stoves By The Telegraph

The Telegraph has written an article on the best wood burning stoves and covers some of the latest developments in the world of wood burning stoves. Having a wood burning stove is one of the biggest trends for any middle-class homes, with new installations booming in recent years. However, Michael Gove, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, introduced a new ban on some of the most polluting wood burners. So, what does this mean for those looking to invest in a new wood burning stove and those who already have one that may not comply with the new ban? Firstly, don’t panic, the new ban doesn’t immediately take effect! It comes into action in 2022, giving you ample time to assess your stove and upgrade if necessary.

Some existing log burners already comply with the new legislation, being marked as “Ecodesign ready”. Any modern model (built within the last 5 years) are more likely going to be compliant, check with HETAS for a list of Ecodesign ready wood burners. Because of modern developments, wood burning stoves have higher efficiency ratings; reach over 80pc (compared to open fire at 30pc). Look for this rating when purchasing your own unit to ensure you are Ecodesign ready. There are over 400 models of stoves that are Ecodesign ready already with more expected to be available before 2022.

It’s important to get the right stove for you and your property; consider the size and location of the installation. It’s more than just a new appliance but an extension of your property. Talk to our experts if you have any questions about choosing the right log burner and we’ll be happy to help. Get in touch with our team today for our advice and take a look at the Telegraph’s best wood burning stoves article here.