Garden Log Supply Cost Guide

Whether you require kiln-dried hardwood for a winter hearth or seasoned softwood for an outdoor fire pit, understanding the types of wood and delivery methods available will help you get the best value for money.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Sourcing: Procuring sustainable timber from managed UK woodlands.
• Processing: Cutting and splitting logs into uniform sizes, typically 8–10 inches (20–25cm).
• Moisture Control: Kiln-drying or air-seasoning wood to ensure a moisture content of 20% or less.
• Delivery: Transporting logs via van or crane-arm lorry, often in bulk bags or loose loads.
• Stacking: An optional service where the supplier moves and neatly stacks the logs in your store.

Typical Costs

Prices are influenced primarily by the wood species and the drying method. Hardwoods like Oak are more expensive because they are denser and burn longer, while kiln-dried logs command a premium over air-seasoned wood due to the energy used in the drying process.

Pro Tip: Buying "green" or unseasoned wood in bulk during the spring is significantly cheaper, provided you have the space to season it yourself for 12–24 months.

How Long Does It Take?

• Standard Delivery: 30–60 minutes for unloading a bulk bag or tipping a loose load.
• Delivery with Stacking: 1–2 hours per bulk bag, depending on the distance to your log store.
• Lead Times: 2–5 days during off-peak months; up to 3 weeks during a cold snap in December or January.

DIY or Professional?

While you can "DIY" your log supply by collecting fallen timber or buying green wood, it requires significant physical labour, specialist equipment (chainsaws and splitters), and ample storage space for seasoning. For most UK homeowners, buying from a professional supplier is the only way to guarantee the wood meets the Ready to Burn moisture standards required by law for domestic use.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Look for the Ready to Burn logo to ensure moisture content is below 20%.
• Check if they offer specific wood types (e.g., Ash for high heat, Birch for easy lighting).
• Ask if delivery is "kerbside only" or if they can navigate narrow driveways.
• Question to ask: "Is your wood sourced from sustainably managed UK forests?"
• Question to ask: "What is the average moisture content of this specific batch?"
• Question to ask: "Do you offer a discount for multiple bulk bag orders?"

UK Regulations

• Air Quality (Domestic Solid Fuels) Regulations 2020: It is illegal in England to sell wood in units under 2m³ unless it is certified as "Ready to Burn" (<20% moisture).
• Smoke Control Areas: If you live in a Smoke Control Area, you must use an exempt appliance (DEFRA approved) to burn logs.
• Documentation: Your supplier should provide an invoice or delivery note stating their "Ready to Burn" certification number.

Common Problems

• Damp Wood: Logs with high moisture cause excessive smoke, tar build-up in chimneys, and very little heat.
• Poor Access: Large delivery lorries may struggle with narrow lanes or gravel drives; always confirm vehicle size.
• Inconsistent Sizing: Cheap suppliers may include "oversized" logs that won't fit in a standard small stove.
• Pests: Improperly stored wood can harbour woodworm or beetles; professional kiln-drying usually kills these off.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?

Hardwood (Ash, Oak, Beech) comes from deciduous trees; it is denser, burns longer, and provides more sustained heat. Softwood (Pine, Larch, Spruce) comes from conifers; it lights easily and burns hot but very quickly, making it better for kindling or outdoor pits.

How should I store my logs?

Logs should be stored off the ground (on pallets), under a waterproof roof, but with open sides to allow air to circulate. Never wrap them tightly in plastic, as this traps moisture and causes rot.

Is kiln-dried wood worth the extra cost?

Yes. Kiln-dried wood has a consistently low moisture content (usually 12–15%), meaning it lights instantly, produces maximum heat, and keeps your stove glass clean. You often use fewer logs to achieve the same temperature as seasoned wood.

How much wood do I need for a winter?

An average UK household using a stove on evenings and weekends typically goes through 2 to 4 bulk bags per winter. If the stove is your primary heat source, you may need 6 to 10 bags.

Can I burn logs immediately after delivery?

Only if they are certified "Ready to Burn" or "Kiln Dried." If you buy "seasoned" wood from an uncertified source, you should test it with a moisture meter to ensure it is below 20% before use.