Frequently asked questions
Were asked tonnes of questions per week, we've covered the most commonly asked below 🪵 🔥⬇️
What is the difference between seasoned and kiln dried firewood?
Seasoned logs are often left outside to air dry, often for a year or more, so how dry they get depends on the weather. Kiln dried logs are dried in a heated kiln under controlled conditions until they reach a consistent, low moisture level. Drier wood gives more heat, less smoke and fewer tar deposits in your chimney, and it lights more easily.
How dry are your logs?
Every batch is kiln dried to 8–13% moisture on the outside of the log and around 10% at the centre. Wood counts as "ready to burn" below 20%, so ours is well within that. We regularly test with a moisture meter to ensure this standard is met.
Are your logs woodsure ready to burn certified?
Yes, our logs are Woodsure - Ready to Burn certified.
where does your wood come from?
The majority of our hardwoods are grown, processed and kiln dried in Poland, from managed forestry schemes. They're shipped directly to our yard in Seaham, where we check every load and pack it for delivery. Our Ash and Birch follow the same protocols but come from the Baltic European states.
How big are your logs?
Our logs are cut to a maximum 250mm (10 inches, give or take), which fits most log burners, multi-fuel stoves and open fires.
What wood should I burn?
It depends on how you use your stove. Lighter woods catch quickly; denser woods burn longer and hotter.
Birch, "The Quick Starter" | Lighting the fire, quick heat, a bright flame | £10.00 40L net
Oak, "The Gold Standard" | Long evenings and overnight burns | £11.00 40L net
Ash, "The All Rounder" | Everyday burning with steady heat | £11.50 40L net
Beech, "The Clean Machine" | High heat with very little smoke or ash | £11.50 40L net
Hornbeam, "The Powerhouse" | Maximum heat and the longest burn | £11.75
Not sure? Call us on 0191 406 8799 and tell us about you and your stove, and we'll give out best recommendation.
Can I get a mixed order?
Yes, and we recommend it. Birch gets the fire going fast, then a denser wood like oak or hornbeam keeps it burning. Our 5 + 5 mixed packs and bundles (Starter, Blaze, Ember and Hero) are put together for exactly this, and they cost less than buying each item separately. However, if you have a specific order you would like give us a call and we'll work out a bespoke order for you.
How much firewood will I need?
It depends on your stove size, how often you light it and how cold the winter is.
Buying in bulk is cheaper, and we can work out the right amount for you if you give us a call.
Where do you deliver?
We deliver within 20 miles of our warehouse in Seaham. That covers most of County Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle and Teesside, including [Durham, Peterlee, Houghton-le-Spring, Washington, Hartlepool]. Not sure if you're in range? Enter your postcode at checkout or give us a call.
How much is delivery?
Delivery is charges differ by how far away you live. Delivery will be calculated at the checkout. Spending over £100? No need to worry, delivery will be free.
When will my order arrive?
We aim to deliver the next day. In very busy periods, such as cold snaps, it can take up to 2 days. We deliver Monday to Saturday between 09:00 and 16:00, and we'll call you with a delivery window shortly after order.
will you carry the logs in and stack them?
Yes, it is part of the reason we started North Shore. Our own team delivers every order, and we'll carry your logs to your log store, shed or garage and stack them. We don't use couriers and we don't leave logs dumped on the drive.
Do I need to be home when you deliver?
No. We will always call you prior to delivery or just tell us where to leave your order in the delivery notes at checkout. If access is through a locked gate, let us know how to get in. If the weather is wet, we will cover your delivery to keep it as dry as possible for you.
Can I collect my order?
Yes. Collect from Unit 2b Chipchase Court, Seaham Grange Industrial Estate, Seaham, SR7 0PP. Orders are usually ready within 1 hour, and we'll help load your car. Please check our open hours before traveling.
Do you supply to business?
Yes. We supply pubs, restaurants, holiday lets and other businesses at trade prices. See our Trade page or call us to set up an account.
How should I store my logs?
All firewood should be stored in a dry and well ventilated environment and ideally at least 2 inches off the floor.
Log stores are perfect for this as this stops firewood clogging up your shed or garage whilst keeping your firewood ready to burn.
What is the best way to light my stove?
We recommend the top-down method. Put two or three Birch logs at the bottom, then stack kindling in a 2x2 formation for 4 levels, add firelighters in the V of the logs and light with a match or lighter. Open the air vents fully and close the door. Once the fire is burning well, turn the air down gradually. It burns cleaner, makes less smoke and keeps your stove glass clearer. There's a step-by-step guide on our blog.
How often should I have my chimney swept?
At least once a year for wood, and twice a year if you burn a lot or use coal. Ideally get it done before you start using your stove in autumn. We work with Steve Coxon locally, give us a call for more information.
what can I burn your logs in?
Our logs suit wood burning and multi-fuel stoves, open fires, chimineas, firepits and pizza ovens. For smaller appliances, Birch is the easiest to get going.
do I have to bring the green bags back?
Yes. All green boot bags are given as a gesture and are expected to be returned in replacement for your next order. This is to allow us to keep the costs down and the impact on the environment. We can also arrange collection of the green bags should you not be able to return them to us.