Where to Find Free Firewood: 6 Great Sources

There’s something special about the warmth and crackle of a cozy fire that can’t be replicated. However, buying firewood can quickly add up in cost. The good news is that there are several ways you can get firewood for free or very little money. You just need to know where to look and be willing to put in a little effort. Here are some tips to help you score free firewood:

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Check Local Websites and Groups

Websites like Craigslist, The Freecycle Network, and Facebook Marketplace can be great places to find people giving away firewood.
Consider joining local swap groups on Facebook or other community forums where people often post about free firewood.
Keep an eye out for print ads around your town, especially in high-traffic areas like grocery stores and post offices.

Clean Up After a Storm

After a storm, check for fallen branches or trees in your area.
Offer to help homeowners clean up their property in exchange for taking away the wood.
Visit places where homeowners can discard tree branches after a storm for potential free firewood.

Explore Construction Sites

Look for construction sites where trees are being cleared for new building projects.
Ask for permission to take away any unwanted wood from the site.
Consider visiting landfills where construction companies may have already discarded extra wood.

Offer Tree Trimming Services

If you have the tools and expertise, offer to trim trees for neighbors or local residents.
Ask permission before trimming any trees and offer to take away the wood as part of your service.
Contact local tree trimmers to inquire about obtaining their excess wood for free or at a low cost.

Visit a Sawmill

Sawmills often have leftover wood scraps that they may be willing to part with.
Make inquiries at local sawmills about obtaining free or low-cost firewood.
By taking their excess wood, you can help them reduce disposal costs while scoring free firewood for yourself.

Utilize Wooden Pallets

Wooden pallets can be a good source of free firewood in a pinch.
Check with grocery stores or garden centers for free pallets.
Ensure the pallets are safe to burn by avoiding those with nails, screws, or stains. Never burn pallets marked with “MB” as they may contain harmful chemicals.

Firewood Tips and Tricks

Different types of firewood have varying heat temps, scents, and burn times. Oak is considered one of the best types of firewood for burning.
A cord of wood is a standard measurement for firewood, typically priced between $120 and $900 depending on type and dryness.
To store firewood properly, cover it with a tarp while allowing for air circulation to prevent mold and rot.

Remember, when sourcing free firewood, always ask for permission and practice proper safety precautions when handling and burning the wood. By exploring these different sources, you can enjoy the warmth of a fire without breaking the bank. Happy wood hunting!