13/05/2026
In Italy, the topic of firewood drying is still undervalued. It’s not so much a technical gap, but rather a matter of how its value is perceived compared to other European markets.
The difference between wet wood and properly dried firewood is significant. Wood with high moisture content burns inefficiently, produces more smoke, delivers less heat, and contributes to creosote build-up in chimneys. On the other hand, dry firewood ensures a cleaner combustion, higher energy efficiency, and a safer, easier user experience.
In countries like France, this value is already well recognized. Firewood is commonly sold by the “stère” (stacked cubic meter), and the level of dryness is a key factor in purchasing decisions. It’s not just about quantity, but about the real quality of the product.
In Italy, price still tends to dominate the conversation, while moisture content and energy performance often take a back seat. This not only affects customer awareness, but also limits opportunities for producers to differentiate themselves.
Investing in controlled drying, such as kiln-dried firewood, means offering a consistent, high-performance product that is easier for customers to use. More importantly, it represents a shift in mindset: moving from selling “firewood” to selling reliable, high-quality energy.
And that shift is where the Italian market still has strong potential to grow.
