Find top rated fireplace cleaning pros in Columbus, OH

Pick up firewood in the off‑season—early spring is prime time—to lock in lower prices before demand spikes. Softwood is cheaper than hardwood, and unseasoned (green) logs cost less if you have space to dry them for a year. You can also save by cutting your own wood. Some tree service companies will leave logs on-site for a small fee, and many public lands sell low‑cost cutting permits. Combining a few of these tactics can shave a noticeable amount off your heating budget.

The best firewood is a dense, locally sourced hardwood—oak tops the list for many homeowners because it burns hot and clean without excessive smoke or sparks. Other slow‑burning hardwoods like hickory, walnut, cherry, and maple also deliver steady heat. Choosing a species native to your area keeps costs reasonable and supports healthy local forests.

Stack firewood outdoors and away from your home or shed to reduce fire risk and keep insects from migrating indoors. Choose a spot that gets sun and airflow but is also shielded from rain and snow. An open‑sided shelter or a rack with a simple tarp on top works well. Keep the bottom row off the ground with pallets or rails so that moisture can escape.

If you’re burning wood every day for heat, a full cord lasts one to two months. If you light the fireplace only on weekends or chilly evenings, the same cord can carry you through an entire winter. Dense hardwoods like oak burn slower than softwoods, stretching each load and delivering steadier, longer‑lasting warmth.

A cord is far too large for a standard car, so plan on using a flat‑bed trailer or a long‑bed pickup truck. A pickup holds about half a cord, meaning you’ll need two trips for the full load. Securing the stack properly protects the wood and helps you avoid accidents or damage in transit. You can also pay for professional delivery to make your life easier.