Firewood quality

[Shu]

I have a Hearth Heater that I've been burning mostly oak and madrone in for years. My neighbor told me I could take some wood that he doesn't need. It's very dry, which is good. Some of it breaks apart like paper when I split it and looks like this - some of the wood has turned into powder.
Well, I was going to insert a photo, but it doesn't look like I can do that here. Hope the description makes sense. Just wonder about this.

 

[WoodyIsGoody]

I have a Hearth Heater that I've been burning mostly oak and madrone in for years. My neighbor told me I could take some wood that he doesn't need. It's very dry, which is good. Some of it breaks apart like paper when I split it and looks like this - some of the wood has turned into powder.
Well, I was going to insert a photo, but it doesn't look like I can do that here. Hope the description makes sense. Just wonder about this.

It'll burn fine. Just make sure it doesn't have bugs, mold, bad smells or create too much dust inside. It won't make as much heat as you're accustomed to but you can mix it in with your hardwood or burn it in the shoulder seasons.

 

[jetsam]

The word you are looking for is "rotten".

I wouldn't turn it down, personally. Use it for short burns on low air settings when you are around to monitor it.

 

[HisTreeNut]

The word you are looking for is "rotten".

I wouldn't turn it down, personally. Use it for short burns on low air settings when you are around to monitor it.

+1 on this.

 

[begreen]

Sounds like it might be some punky alder? If so, pass or just take the most solid pieces.
Post some pics to verify. Here is how to:
https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/putting-images-into-your-forums-posts.87212/

 

[Sprinter]

My wood supply is quite a mixture. Some of it has rotted (some alder snags, some downed hemlock), but it still burns and it's free and close. The biggest problem you may have, unless it's gone to dust, will be that punky wood takes more space to store for a season's worth because the BTU content will be less per cubic foot. But if that is not a problem, I use anything within reason and so far, even punky wood still puts out heat.

Lifestyle may make a big difference, though, if you require long burn times while away from home.