As an integral part of human evolution, firewood has played its role in developing humans as species for millions of years. What was once a vital part of survival has now become part of winter comfort in modern times. 

This blog will explore the critical aspects of firewood, why it does the iconic snap, crackle and pop when burnt, and also look at how firewood has maintained popularity for so many generations – even becoming a staple for Kiwi homes in winter. 

 

The History of Firewood 

While most of human history has seen firewood as a vital feature, it remained this way until the industrial revolution of the 20th century. Firewood was the primary source of heating for people across the globe. 

It’s truly remarkable what value had been placed on firewood throughout history and how many people were kept alive because of it. From royalty to peasants, everyone across the social hierarchy required heat from firewood to stay healthy. 

 

Snap, Crackle and Pop 

Ever wondered what that unique noise is when you’re topping up the firewood? ‘Snap’, ‘crackle’ and ‘pop’ are the most common words used to describe this sound. You may think that sturdy, dry firewood is something that is solid and robust, and while technically accurate, there are actually an extensive amount of pockets and holes within the wood. 

Sap, water and other liquids commonly fill these cavities. When the heat of the firewood increases in the fireplace, so does the temperature of these pockets. Similarly, the same crackling can occur when you’re frying an egg in a pan. As these cavities are much smaller than a frypan sizzling, you’ll notice that these pops are much more subtle and quiet.  

When heat builds up in these small spaces, the liquid in them starts to boil like a kettle. When a kettle has finished boiling, the water becomes quite violent, and these wooden cavities are no different. Once the pressure becomes too much – we hear the popping noise.

 

Finding The Best Firewood 

Experience this iconic snap, crackle and pop with your own firewood with A1 Sure Services. Offering spectacular firewood with our “Hot-Mix” variety of wood. Most typical include the wood from Oak, Gum and Macrocarpa trees; this unique mix of wood also consists of some of the native lumber from our arborist-removed trees that include Rimu, Totara, Pohutukawa, and so much more. 

The wood has been split, stored, and seasoned on-site and is ready for burning this winter. All pieces are standard firewood size with pieces of approx. 30cm in length  – fitting most standard wood burners.

A1 Sure Services 

At A1 Sure Services, we sell the popular “HOT MIX” firewood – a combination of fast-starting and slow-burning woods. The three main types in the mix are Pine, Macrocarpa and Gum. The mix may also include other arborist-removed trees such as Oak, Totora, Pohutukawa, etc.

For $150 per cube, we can provide free delivery when:

  • Two cubes are purchased, and you live in North Shore, Whangaparaoa or Orewa
  • Three cubes are purchased, and you live in Rodney District 
  • Four cubes are purchased, and you live in East, Central or South Auckland 

The wood has been split, stored, and seasoned on-site and is ready for burning this winter. All pieces are standard firewood size with pieces of approx. 30cm in length  – fitting most standard wood burners. Please note we only offer Hotmix (we do not have different types of wood for sale separately).⁠

To place an order, please either fill out the contact form or contact us directly by emailing [email protected].

Please advise your name, address, how many cubes you would like and where you want the wood to be dropped, and we can schedule a delivery.

If you have a preferred delivery date, please also advise.