Cherry Wood Logs for Sale: A Complete Guide to Buying and Using Cherry Wood

Cherry wood is one of the most sought-after types of hardwood for both furniture making and firewood. Known for its beautiful grain and rich color, cherry wood is prized for its natural beauty and durability. Whether you’re considering cherry wood logs for firewood or woodworking projects, understanding where to buy them and how to use them can enhance your experience. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cherry wood logs for sale.

What is Cherry Wood?

Cherry wood comes from the cherry tree, specifically the Prunus genus. It is a dense hardwood that is commonly used in furniture making, cabinetry, and flooring. Cherry wood is also a popular choice for firewood due to its excellent burning properties, offering a clean and consistent burn.

The wood has a warm reddish-brown color that darkens with age, giving it an appealing, rich patina. Its fine, smooth grain is often highlighted in furniture and decorative items. Cherry wood’s blend of beauty and strength makes it a versatile and desirable material in various woodworking and home improvement projects.

Where to Buy Cherry Wood Logs?

When it comes to purchasing cherry wood logs, you have a few options:

1. Local Lumber Yards and Wood Suppliers

Local lumber yards and wood suppliers are one of the best places to find cherry wood logs. These businesses typically offer a variety of wood species, including cherry. Many suppliers will sell cherry wood in both rough-cut logs and kiln-dried planks.

Pros: You can inspect the quality of the wood in person and often negotiate prices.

Cons: Availability may vary, and prices can be higher due to transport costs and middlemen.

2. Online Retailers

Several online platforms, such as Amazon, eBay, and specialty wood-selling websites, allow you to buy cherry wood logs for various purposes, including firewood or wood for crafting.

Pros: Convenience of buying from home with the option of home delivery.

Cons: Shipping costs may apply, and you may not be able to inspect the wood before purchasing.

3. Firewood Dealers

For those interested in using cherry wood logs as firewood, specialized firewood dealers can be a good source. They often sell cherry firewood by the cord or half-cord, ensuring you have the right quantity for your needs.

Pros: Typically offers seasoned and ready-to-burn cherry firewood.

Cons: Limited to firewood use, not ideal for crafting or woodworking projects.

4. Tree Removal Services

Sometimes tree removal services or arborists will have cherry wood logs available for sale after cutting down a cherry tree. This can be an excellent opportunity to get fresh cherry logs at a lower price.

Pros: Can often get the wood at a lower price and have the option to purchase freshly cut logs.

Cons: Freshly cut logs require seasoning (drying) before they can be used for certain applications like furniture making.

5. Woodworking Forums and Marketplaces

Online woodworking communities often have dedicated marketplaces where individuals sell wood, including cherry logs. Platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or specialized woodworking forums may feature local listings.

Pros: Direct deals with individuals, often at lower prices.

Cons: Risk of purchasing low-quality or improperly seasoned wood.

Benefits of Cherry Wood Logs

Cherry wood logs offer many benefits, whether you’re using them for firewood or a woodworking project.

1. Durability

Cherry wood is incredibly strong and durable, making it a great option for both furniture and firewood. It resists warping, swelling, and shrinking, making it a fantastic material for long-lasting furniture.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

The rich reddish-brown color of cherry wood adds elegance and charm to any project. Over time, cherry wood darkens and develops a deeper, more luxurious hue, enhancing its visual appeal.

3. Great for Firewood

Cherry wood burns cleanly and efficiently, producing minimal smoke. It also has a moderate burn rate, making it a great choice for those who want a long-lasting fire. The subtle aroma it gives off while burning is another bonus.

4. Easy to Work With

Cherry wood is relatively easy to work with, especially for woodworking projects. It cuts, sands, and finishes well, and it holds stains and finishes beautifully. This makes it a favorite among woodworkers for making fine furniture, cabinets, and other wooden items.

5. Value

While cherry wood can be more expensive than some other types of wood, its beauty and strength ensure that it holds its value. If you’re purchasing logs for furniture or high-end items, it’s worth the investment.

How to Use Cherry Wood Logs

1. Firewood

Cherry wood is excellent for firewood. It burns hot and clean, producing a pleasant aroma. It’s a great choice for outdoor fires, fireplaces, or wood stoves. Always make sure to season the wood for at least 6 months to a year for optimal burning efficiency.

2. Woodworking Projects

Cherry wood is perfect for crafting fine furniture, cabinets, and cabinetry. Its smooth texture and rich color make it an ideal wood for carving, turning, and finishing. Woodworkers love its ability to take on a variety of finishes.

3. Decorative Items

Cherry wood logs can be used for a variety of decorative items, such as wooden bowls, cutting boards, or even small sculptures. The attractive grain pattern and reddish color make cherry wood ideal for turning into unique and beautiful keepsakes.

How to Season Cherry Wood for Firewood

When buying cherry wood logs for firewood, it’s important to know how to properly season them. Freshly cut cherry wood can be too green (moist) and will not burn efficiently. Here are the steps to properly season cherry wood:

1. Cut Logs to Size: If you’ve bought whole cherry logs, cut them into manageable lengths that fit your fireplace or stove.

2. Split the Wood: Split the logs into smaller pieces to help them dry more quickly.

3. Stack the Wood Properly: Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area, preferably off the ground, to prevent moisture from absorbing from the soil.

4. Allow Drying Time: Leave the wood to season for at least 6 months. For optimal seasoning, cherry wood can be left to dry for a year.

FAQs About Cherry Wood Logs

1. Is cherry wood good for firewood?

Yes, cherry wood is an excellent choice for firewood. It burns hot, clean, and efficiently with minimal smoke. It also produces a pleasant aroma when burned.

2. How much does cherry wood cost?

The cost of cherry wood varies based on the source, region, and whether you are purchasing it for firewood or woodworking. On average, cherry firewood can cost between $200 to $300 per cord, while lumber for woodworking can cost $5 to $10 per board foot.

3. Can I use cherry wood for furniture?

Absolutely! Cherry wood is one of the most prized hardwoods for furniture making due to its smooth grain, durability, and rich color. It’s a popular choice for creating high-quality furniture, cabinets, and decorative pieces.

4. How long should cherry wood dry before use?

For firewood, cherry logs should be seasoned for 6 months to a year to ensure proper burning. For woodworking, freshly cut cherry wood can be used after drying for several months or more, depending on the intended use.

5. Where can I buy cherry wood logs?

Cherry wood logs can be bought from local lumber yards, online retailers, firewood dealers, and even tree removal services. Woodworking forums and marketplaces also sometimes feature individuals selling cherry logs.