Should You Be Worried About Popping and Crackling Firewood?

Many people associate popping and crackling with cozy and comforting winters. However, it can be a bit too much at times, and for some, they feel it can be a cause for alarm. In today’s post, Handyman Connection of Mason takes a look at its causes, and whether or not you should be worried about it.

What Causes All the Popping and Crackling?

The popping and crackling sound of a wood fire is caused by the moisture within the wood turning to steam and waste gases. Some of them get trapped in the wood’s pores and build up pressure, until they escape and produce the characteristic popping sound. Embers or particles on the firewood’s surface may be expelled as a result.

Factors That Affect Firewood Moisture Levels

There are factors that affect moisture levels in firewood, which is why some firewood are more prone to popping and crackling than others.

• Type of wood. Hardwood like oak, ash and birch is the preferred type of wood for burning because it’s more dense, therefore it has fewer pores where gas can accumulate. It is also less prone to producing smoke. Many firewood suppliers offer softwood like cedar because of its lower cost, and because it works well for outdoor pits. However, because of its high sap content, they’re more prone to popping.
• Moisture content. There’s a reason why people who cut their own firewood don’t immediately throw the “green” wood into the fire: it’s just too moist to burn. Firewood is often stored in an outdoor shed during the winter season because the cold air can dry it out. Store-bought firewood is seasoned or dried in a kiln, making them the ideal choice when you need firewood on short notice.

Should You Be Worried About Popping and Crackling?

So should you be worried about the popping and crackling in your fireplace? To answer this, you have to check a few things on your hearth, because the problem is not the popping and crackling itself, but the fire risk of embers that may get discharged into your living space. You probably already have safety measures in place, such as a fireplace screen, as well as best practices like keeping flammables at a safe distance and having a fire extinguisher within reach.

If you need help with installing safety equipment, get in touch with our team at Handyman Connection of Mason. Give us a call at (513) 733-3777, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free estimate.