If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, you’ll likely have to split a lot of firewood. Whether you’re preparing for winter or stocking up for outdoor fire pits, This Old House‘s Tom Silva and Jenn Nawada demonstrate the most efficient ways to do the job.
Wood-Splitting Basics
When you split wood, you separate the fibers across the grain rather than cutting across it. Since the process takes advantage of the wood’s natural structure, it also requires less force.
Not all woods split equally. Hardwoods like oak and maple are harder to process than softwoods like pine. Seasoned (dry) wood is also easier to split than green (freshly cut) wood, burns more efficiently, and generates less creosote.
Before you split logs, you must cut them to the right length for your fireplace or stove. Typically, this amounts to 16–18 inches.
Machine-Assisted Wood Splitting
Machine splitting is ideal for large quantities of wood since it’s far less physically demanding.
Types of Wood-Splitting Machines
In the video, Nawada demonstrates an electric log splitter that uses centrifugal force. These models are quiet, easy to use, and perfect for home use since they get their power through a standard outlet. However, there are a few other heavy-duty types of splitters available:
- Hydraulic log splitters: These models use powerful hydraulic pressure to drive the wedge through the wood. They’re particularly effective for large logs and tough jobs.
- Gas-powered log splitters: Gas splitters offer both portability and high power. If you work in remote locations far away from electricity or want a splitter you can use in an emergency, they might be a good option.
- Kinetic log splitters: These models use flywheels for rapid splitting action, making them perfect for high-volume jobs.
Using an Electric Log Splitter
First, Nawada places the log on the splitter’s track and ensures it’s stable. She activates two levers, one with each hand, that push the wood through the splitting wedge.
Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear when operating any wood-splitting machine.
Splitting Firewood by Hand
Hand-splitting is more effective for smaller quantities of wood.
Tools for Hand-Splitting
Most people think of an axe for splitting wood, but Silva says they’re not ideal compared to other tools. “It’s okay for splitting wood, but the primary design of an axe is to cut trees down, cut heavy branches off, without using a saw,” he says. Choosing one of these tools instead may make the job more efficient:
- Splitting maul: Mauls, with a heavy 8-pound head and wide wedge, are designed specifically for splitting wood.
- Sledgehammer and wedge: This combination of tools lets you split stubborn logs precisely. You use a sledgehammer to drive a large wedge into the wood, forcing the fibers apart.
- Splitting axe: Silva uses a splitting axe in the video. These tools combine an axe with a maul, offering a good balance of weight and splitting power. Their wedge is also a bit more pronounced, so you can use them for chopping and splitting.
Proper Technique for Hand-Splitting
Silva begins hand-splitting the log by placing it on its end on a stable surface. Larger logs or chopping blocks are better than concrete, which can damage your tools. Next, he looks for any “checks”—cracks or weak points in the wood grain where splitting would be easier.
Generally, it’s best to aim for the edge of the log closest to you. “I don’t want to have to reach fast, and if it comes through too fast, I don’t want to hit the handle on there—that could damage it,” Silva says. Avoid knots that are tougher and harder to split through.
Stand back at a slight angle, with your feet shoulder-width apart, and begin to swing the tool overhead. When it swings, pivot your foot to face the log more straight on, then allow the tool’s momentum to split the wood naturally. Keep swinging and driving away until the wood’s completely severed. For larger logs, take one of the halves you split and turn it to split it in half.
When you’re done splitting, clean the tool to remove sap or debris. These can stick to blades and wedges and reduce their efficacy.
Hand-Splitting Safety
Safety, not speed, should always be your top priority when hand-splitting wood. Follow these important tips to protect yourself:
- Choose a level site for splitting, and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t split on uneven ground or around low overhead branches.
- Wear appropriate protective gear, including safety glasses, work gloves, and steel-toed boots.
- Keep your work area clear of bystanders and pets. Flying wood chips and swinging tools can be dangerous when uncontrolled.
- Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue. Improper or sloppy form can lead to physical injury, so stay well-rested to maintain focus and keep your energy.
- Never use a splitting tool while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.