Firewood: when to buy it to pay less?

To enjoy a peaceful winter while making valuable savings, it is best to plan ahead when purchasing firewood or pellets. From selection to storage, the experts at SEGUIN share their advice on how to prepare for the heating season.

Lower prices, drier wood, fast delivery... Buying your firewood at the right time can make all the difference. Discover our tips for preparing for the heating season and enjoying a peaceful winter by the fireside.

When is the best time to buy wood?

It is advisable to buy firewood in spring or summer, in order to prepare for the heating season, avoid high demand, and benefit from more favorable prices. At the end of winter, demand drops and suppliers often offer attractive prices and even some interesting promotions.

Anticipation: the key to a peaceful winter

So don't hesitate to order your wood in March or April for the following winter. This can also help you spread out your expenses, for example by placing two orders.

By planning ahead, you'll benefit from shorter delivery times and a wider choice, while gaining peace of mind. Conversely, as winter approaches, demand skyrockets, so prices rise, stocks dwindle, and delivery times lengthen. All of this can be a source of stress when preparing for the cold season.

Another significant advantage of placing your order in advance is that you can control how your wood is dried. This is an essential factor for good performance, as well-dried wood will burn longer, cause less soot buildup in your chimney, and provide more efficient heat. This saves you money, increases your everyday comfort, and allows you to enjoy pleasant warmth.

How to store wood properly before winter?

Wood must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated place, protected from rain and wind. Experts from the SEGUIN network recommend storing your woodpile on a pallet or support to promote air circulation and prevent the logs from absorbing moisture from the ground. If possible, position your woodpile facing south to speed up natural drying.

There are two mistakes you should avoid at all costs: never place logs directly on the ground or against a wall, and do not cover them completely with a waterproof tarpaulin. If you want to protect your woodpile, only cover the top to allow air to circulate around the sides. Covering it completely may cause the wood to mold.

To check the moisture content of your wood, you can use a moisture meter. This small, easy-to-use device is available at DIY stores. Simply insert the moisture meter probe into a log to find out its exact moisture content. Wood is considered ready for use when the moisture content is between 15 and 20%. That's right, wood must not be too dry either to ensure good combustion. If you don't have a device, there are certain signs you can look for. Dry wood makes a clear sound when you strike two logs together and gives off little smoke when lit.

Wood or pellets: the same logic of advance purchasing

As with wood, it is a good idea to plan ahead when buying pellets to get the best prices. Pellet prices vary depending on the season and are generally lower between April and August.

By ordering your pellets in the spring or summer, you can avoid the autumn price increases caused by high demand. You will also have a wider choice and larger quantities available. Keep in mind that placing group orders with neighbors or friends can allow you to obtain preferential rates on large volumes. By planning ahead, you can also schedule delivery at your convenience for greater organizational flexibility.

To preserve the quality of your pellets until winter, store them in their original bags in a dry, frost-free place. As with firewood, avoid direct contact with the ground by raising them on a pallet. Stored in this way, your pellets will retain their calorific value and ensure excellent performance.

Firewood: when is the best time to buy it and save money?