Does Cedar Burn Well? Benefits, Tips, and Precautions

Does Cedar Burn Well?

No, cedar does not burn well in stoves or fireplaces due to its high volatile oil content, which can cause popping of fire sparks and embers.

It is not recommended to burn cedar indoors, but it can be used as kindling or for quick warm-up in outdoor areas.

Cedar firewood is lightweight and flexible but has a lower heat output compared to other types of wood.

It is one of the cleanest burning woods but easily sparks and pops, making it dangerous to burn indoors.

Hardwoods like oak, ash, beech, hickory, walnut, birch, and maple are better alternatives for indoor burning.

Key Points:

  • Cedar does not burn well in stoves or fireplaces due to its high volatile oil content
  • Burning cedar indoors is not recommended, but it can be used as kindling or for quick warm-up outdoors
  • Cedar firewood is lightweight and flexible but has a lower heat output compared to other types of wood
  • Cedar is one of the cleanest burning woods but easily sparks and pops, making it dangerous to burn indoors
  • Hardwoods like oak, ash, beech, hickory, walnut, birch, and maple are better alternatives for indoor burning

Did You Know?

1. Contrary to popular belief, cedar wood actually burns quite poorly compared to other types of wood. It tends to produce a lot of smoke and sparks, making it less suitable as fuel for fires.

2. Cedar trees have a natural resistance to rot and decay, which is why they are often used for outdoor furniture and building materials. The oils present in cedar wood act as a natural preservative, making it highly durable.

3. Ancient Egyptians used cedar wood to create coffins for their pharaohs. They believed that the aromatic scent of cedar would help guide the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.

4. Cedar wood is commonly used to make musical instruments, particularly guitars. It is valued for its tonal qualities, which produce warm and rich sounds.

5. Did you know that cedar wood has been used for centuries to repel insects? The strong aroma of cedarwood oil can ward off pests such as moths, fleas, and mosquitoes. It is often used in the production of natural insect repellents and cedar-lined storage chests.

Cedar Firewood: Not Recommended For Stoves And Fireplaces

Cedar, a popular type of softwood, is not recommended for use in stoves or fireplaces due to its high volatile oil content. This increases the risk of fire accidents, as cedar is highly prone to popping fire sparks and embers. This can potentially lead to property damage or personal injury. Burning cedar in enclosed spaces, such as indoors or in stoves and fireplaces, should be avoided.

However, cedar does have its benefits in certain outdoor applications. Despite the fire hazard it presents, cedar can still be utilized for other purposes. Some of these include:

  • Outdoor campfires: Cedar can be used as firewood in outdoor settings, like campfires, where there is less risk of fire accidents.
  • Outdoor fire pits: Similarly, cedar can be burned in fire pits that are specifically designed for outdoor use, as long as proper safety precautions are taken.
  • Decorative purposes: Cedar logs or planks can be used for decorative purposes in outdoor settings, such as landscaping or creating a rustic feel.
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It is crucial to prioritize safety when dealing with cedar or any other type of firewood. Always follow safety guidelines and regulations to minimize the risk of fire accidents and ensure the well-being of yourself and others.

Remember: Burning cedar indoors or in stoves/fireplaces can lead to significant fire hazards.

Uses Of Cedar: Kindling And Outdoor Warm-Up

Cedar as Kindling

Cedar is not recommended as a primary fuel source for stoves or fireplaces. However, it can be excellent kindling due to its high resin content. It ignites quickly and produces a strong burst of flames, making it ideal for starting fires. Cedar is particularly useful for igniting hardwoods, which burn slowly and require hotter flames initially.

Cedar for Outdoor Warm-Up

Cedar is also a great choice for generating warmth in outdoor areas. Whether you’re spending a chilly evening on the patio or camping in the wilderness, burning cedar can create a cozy atmosphere and provide a moderate amount of heat. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines when using cedar in these scenarios. Make sure to burn cedar in a controlled and safe manner.

Benefits of Cedar as Kindling and Outdoor Heat Source:

  • High resin content makes cedar ideal for igniting fires quickly
  • Provides a good initial burst of flames, aiding in the ignition of slower-burning hardwoods
  • Generates a moderate amount of heat, perfect for outdoor warmth
  • Creates a cozy ambiance for outdoor activities
  • Caution and following safety guidelines is vital when using cedar as kindling or for outdoor heat

Cedar Firewood: Clean Burning And Non-Toxic Smoke

One significant advantage of cedar firewood is its clean burning nature. Unlike some other woods that release harmful substances and noxious fumes when burned, cedar produces minimal amounts of toxic smoke. This makes cedar a preferable option for those concerned about air quality and the potential health risks associated with burning woods that emit harmful emissions.

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Furthermore, cedar firewood has a lower chance of creosote build-up compared to many other types of wood. Creosote is a highly flammable substance that can accumulate in chimney flues and pose a serious fire hazard if not regularly cleaned. By opting for cedar firewood, you can reduce the risk of dangerous creosote build-up and enhance the overall safety of your fireplace or stove.

Alternatives To Cedar Firewood For Indoor Burning

If you are looking for firewood for indoor use, there are several hardwood options that are considered better alternatives to cedar. Oak, ash, beech, hickory, walnut, birch, and maple are known for their higher heat output, longer burn times, and cleaner combustion. These hardwoods provide a reliable and efficient source of heat, making them ideal for heating homes and spaces during colder months.

Additionally, these hardwoods have a lower risk of sparking or popping compared to cedar, making them safer to burn indoors. Their dense composition and lower resin content contribute to a safer and more controlled burning experience, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a fire without the worry of flying embers or potential fire hazards.

Safety Precautions For Burning Cedar Indoors

If you choose to burn cedar indoors, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to minimize risks. First, it is recommended to burn cedar behind a protective barrier like a glass door or a fireplace screen. This will prevent sparks and embers from reaching flammable materials and causing accidents.

Proper ventilation is also essential when burning cedar indoors. Adequate airflow prevents smoke buildup and ensures a healthy indoor environment. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your stove or fireplace are crucial to prevent creosote accumulation and maintain safety.

While cedar has its uses and benefits, burning it indoors is not recommended due to its high volatile oil content. This increases the risk of fire accidents. However, cedar can be used as kindling and provide quick warmth in outdoor settings. It offers clean burning and non-toxic smoke, making it a relatively safe option for certain outdoor purposes.

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For indoor burning, opt for hardwood alternatives that provide higher heat output and a lower risk of sparking or popping. Lastly, remember to follow safety precautions, including using a protective barrier and ensuring proper ventilation, to minimize risks when burning cedar indoors.


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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to burn cedar?

Burning cedar can be risky as most cedar species contain volatile oils that can create excessive smoke and explosive heat, which can be a cause for concern when using a stove or fireplace. However, if you are in an open outside area where these factors are less of a concern, burning cedar can be acceptable. It is important to consider the circumstances and be cautious when using cedar as firewood.

What is burning cedar good for?

Burning cedar serves multiple purposes, beyond its aesthetic appeal and pleasant aroma. In the sweat lodge ceremony, a few pinches of cedar are thrown onto hot rocks, which then ignite into a vibrant yellow glow. This act not only releases a soothing fragrance but also holds symbolic significance. The smoke produced by burning cedar is believed to have the power to attract positive spirits while simultaneously dispelling negative energies. Thus, its utilization in such ceremonies aids in establishing a sacred and positive environment.

How flammable is cedar?

Cedar, like other softwoods such as Douglas fir and pine trees, is generally more flammable than hardwoods. Due to its less dense wood, it is more susceptible to catching fire. However, it is important to note that flammability can vary depending on the specific conditions and factors such as moisture content, thickness, and age of the cedar.

Is cedar smoke bad for you?

Exposure to cedar smoke should be taken seriously due to its potential health risks. Contact with cedar smoke or oil may result in various health implications, including dermatitis, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and even a condition known as “cedar asthma”. Prolonged exposure to plicatic acid, a chemical present in cedar, can lead to the development of this respiratory condition. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution and minimize contact with cedar smoke to prevent any potential harm to one’s health.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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