The Journey from Fresh Timber to Kiln-Dried Firewood
When you order logs from Peak Logs, you’re not just buying firewood — you’re getting the result of a carefully controlled process that ensures every piece burns hot, clean, and efficiently. Our journey starts with responsibly sourced timber from sustainable UK woodland, including managed estates such as the Chatsworth Estate.
Once felled and cut to size, these freshly sawn logs contain a naturally high moisture content — often over 50%. Before they’re ready for your wood burner, that moisture must be reduced to under 18% for optimal performance. That’s where our kilns come in.
Step 1: Preparing the Logs
Cutting, Splitting and Loading
Each log is precision cut and split to the ideal size for most wood burners. The pieces are then loaded into large metal crates — just like the ones you’ll see at our Buxton site — ready for drying. This even sizing allows consistent airflow inside the kiln, which is key to a uniform moisture level.
- Uniform log size promotes faster and more consistent drying.
- Metal crates allow heat and air to circulate freely around every piece.
- Locally sourced timber keeps our carbon footprint low.
Step 2: The Kiln Drying Process
Our industrial kiln uses a combination of controlled heat and airflow to draw out moisture from within the wood. The logs are dried for around seven days under carefully monitored conditions. This process mimics the effect of natural seasoning — but in a fraction of the time.
Throughout the cycle, sensors monitor the temperature and humidity to make sure every batch reaches our strict standard of below 18% moisture content. By the end of the process, the logs are lighter, cleaner, and far more efficient for burning.
Step 3: Quality Checks and Storage
Once drying is complete, each batch is checked for quality and moisture content before being cooled and stored in our dry, ventilated warehouse. This prevents the logs from re-absorbing moisture and ensures they stay in perfect condition until they’re delivered to you.
Why Kiln-Dried Logs Burn Better
- Hotter flames: Less moisture means more heat energy released.
- Cleaner burn: Reduced smoke and soot keeps your flue cleaner for longer.
- Instant ignition: No need for long drying times at home.
Step 4: Ready for Delivery
After passing our quality checks, the kiln-dried logs are bagged or loaded into bulk bags for delivery. We offer free local delivery within 18 miles of Buxton on orders over £65 — so our logs go straight from kiln to customer, with no unnecessary storage or delay.
Order your kiln-dried logs today and enjoy an easy-lighting, high-heat burn — perfect for wood burners, stoves, and open fires.
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FAQs: Kiln Drying and Moisture Content
How long are logs dried for?
Logs are typically dried for around seven days in our kiln, depending on their initial moisture content and wood type.
What moisture level do you aim for?
All Peak Logs firewood is dried to below 18% moisture — the ideal level for efficient, low-smoke burning.
Is kiln drying more eco-friendly than air drying?
Yes. Our kilns are powered using renewable heat sources, and by reducing drying times, we minimise the storage footprint and energy waste compared to traditional air drying.
Can I store kiln-dried logs outside?
You can, as long as they’re covered from rain and stacked to allow air circulation. We recommend using a ventilated log store or shed for best results.