Sunday, July 14, 2013

How to Get a Deal on Purchased Firewood

How to Get a Deal on Purchased Firewood

Burning firewood in your own fireplace can help to reduce your electricity bill in the winter, but you do have to consider the expense of purchasing the wood if you don't have your own supply. If you plan to build fires frequently, you may want to find the best deal possible on your firewood purchases. If you buy firewood, you probably will be purchasing a "cord," which is a tightly stacked unit of 128 cubic feet of wood. You can find a good deal on your cords if you do a little extra work concerning your shopping.

Instructions

    1

    Barter with your firewood dealer if possible. You may be able to get a reduced price if you have some item or service that the dealer wants or needs. Call ahead to see if bartering is possible. One example of bartering might be the service of cutting the wood yourself. You also might trade food or equipment for a reduced price on the wood.

    2

    Buy wood that is still green and allow it to age yourself. Green wood doesn't produce as much heat as dried wood. If you need wood to burn right away, you should purchase wood that is completely dry. However, if you are looking for wood for the next winter season or two, you may be able to buy green wood at a discount. Store it on your property in an area that is dry and well-ventilated so that it can dry out over time.

    3

    Mix in softer woods such as pine with harder woods such as oak. Softer woods don't burn as long or produce as much heat, but they can be useful for starting fires. Harder woods tend to cost more, so if you get a mixed load, you may be able to reduce your cost.

    4

    Check to see if a local store or vendor will price match another store or vendor. If you prefer to buy your firewood from a store, some stores will price match others if you can show them proof of the competitor's prices for firewood. You can also try this with individual vendors. If you've been buying from one vendor for a while and find a cheaper offer, see if the original vendor will match or beat his competitor's prices.

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