Firewood and correct uses thereof

​Correct Wood Use
Wood has so many different uses. In Cape Town, the two main uses of wood are to start fires in both fireplaces and braais. While fireplaces and braais have two different purposes, they have one thing in common: they require the use of specific wood to function properly. Did you know that using the wrong type of wood in a fireplace can actually damage the chimney? Or that using improper wood in a braai can lead to extra smokey, undercooked meat? It is often best to check with your local wood supplier, which wood to use. Whether you’re gathering wood for your fireplace or your braai, there are several characteristics that you should look for to avoid these problems.
 
What to look for in wood for your fireplace or braai

• Seasoned (dried): Fresh wood, which is typically green in colour, burns at a lower heat.

 

• Hardwood: Hardwood is best because it is denser and does not have as many sap deposits as softwood. This means that it will burn slowly, allowing the fire to last longer.

 

• Untreated and unpainted: Treated and painted wood is filled with chemicals.

 
The importance of using the right kind of wood
There are three main reasons why using the right kind of wood in a fireplace or braai is important: to ensure proper fire temperature, to prevent creosote build up, and to avoid exposure to chemicals. Firstly, if you use wood that isn’t seasoned (dried), the fire will not burn hot enough. This can cause the smoke to turn into soot and creosote, which is incredibly dangerous. Creosote can cause your chimney to deteriorate and even catch alight. It can be hard to notice creosote build up in a fireplace because it accumulates high up in the chimney. Creosote is a carcinogenic and can cause respiratory problems. The only person qualified to remove this creosote- and prevent it from accumulating- is a qualified chimney sweep.
 
Second, if you use wood that has been treated or painted, the chemicals will release into the air or onto your food, causing you to become ill.
 
Best types of wood for fireplaces and braais
There are several types of wood native to Cape Town that are ideal for fireplaces and braais. Here are the most effective woods:

• Kameeldoring: This wood is some of the densest and driest in the country, as it is found in South Africa’s desert regions. When burned, it gives off a musky aroma and can be used in both fireplaces and braais.

 

• Rooikrans: Rooikrans is one of the most popular braai woods in Cape Town. It has a low moisture content of 1%, burns hot and long, and is readily available.

 

• Sekelbos: While this is a soft wood, it does not have the sap deposits that most types of softwood has. In fact, it contains less than 2% moisture, which means that it produces very little smoke. Additionally, it adds a lovely aroma to food when used in a braai and is long-lasting.

 

• Blue Gum: While this wood does not burn as hot as others, it can burn for longer than most. This is best used in a fireplace rather than a braai.

 

• Black Wattle: This wood is popular in Cape Town because it takes little time to season, is readily available, and burns at very high temperatures.

 
The type of wood you use in a fireplace or braai is extremely important. Using treated wood, green wood, softwood, or unseasoned wood can all lead to disastrous results. If you want to ensure the health and safety of both you and your family, you should use dry and seasoned hardwood. The best types of wood to use in Cape Town are listed above and not only are they safe and efficient, but they are also easily accessible and affordable.
 
Firewood 4 Africa has been supplying businesses and warming up homes across the Western Cape since 2003.
They source their wood from local farming communities creating jobs and supporting locals. They donate firewood to certain non-profit organisations and mulch to assist with vegetable gardens at schools in the area creating food & nourishment for many children who would otherwise go hungry.  All their wood is alien vegetation (Blue gum, Black Wattle, Rooikrans and Pine), seasoned naturally by weathering agents (no chemicals) specialising in closed combustion fireplaces, open fireplaces, braai’s and pizza ovens.
They pride ourselves in their service, quality of wood and being on time.
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Firewood 4 Africa
Cell number: 082 042 6959 
email: info@firewood4africa.co.za
Website: www.firewood4africa.co.za
 

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