put another log on the fire

You will need: Chaps, safety goggles, helmet and visor, earmuffs, chainsaw, wood-splitter, wood chipper.

Step 1: Prune off any branches and small ends less than 50mm in diameter. These can be set side for chipping or garden mulch.

Step 2: Using the chainsaw, cut log into rings approximately 350mm in length.

Step 3: Using the wood-splitter, split the rings into manageable sections.

Step 4: For best results, stack your firewood in the open, off the ground, and in long straight rows. The triangular shape of the split wood will help it lock together. Stack to a maximum height of approximately 1.2m to ensure stability, and cover only the tops of the stacks.

Tip: Softer woods like pine will dry off the fastest, with denser timbers taking considerably longer.

Step 5: Feed leftover small ends and branches into the chipper to make garden mulch. This will provide weed cover, retain moisture in the summer and insulate from frosts in the winter.

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