The Beginner's Guide to Starting a Fire in Your Fireplace

There's nothing quite like the warm and comforting glow of a fire in your fireplace. Whether you're looking to create a cosy ambiance or provide reliable heating during colder months, mastering the art of starting a fire is essential. In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through the steps to build a safe and efficient fire in your fireplace using our high-quality firewood and firelighters.

1. Gather the Essentials:

Before you start building your fire, gather all the necessary items. You'll need:

1. Certainly Wood firewood: Choose kiln dried firewood which has a moisture content below 20%
2. KindleFlamers: Consider using KindleFlamers. These are long firelighters which require no kindling to light your fire. A fools proof way to start any fire!
3. Kindling & Flamers: Or, if you're a traditionalist make sure you have some kiln dried kindling and Flamers on hand. 
4. Fireplace tools: Have a set of fireplace tools nearby, including a poker, tongs, and a brush, for easy maintenance and adjustment

Kiln Dried Logs	Kindling	Flamers Natural Firelighters	KindleFlamers

2. Prepare the Woodburner:

Ensure your woodburner is clean and free from debris. Remove some ash or leftover wood from previous fires. Open the damper to allow proper ventilation and ensure the flue is clear for smoke to escape. *HINT* Leave one inch of ash at the grate of your woodburner as it can improve efficiency.

3. Build the Fire

	Create a base by placing two large logs on the grate of your woodburner. Try and lay these logs on their edge to create more airflow. These logs will provide a sturdy foundation for the fire. Next, place one KindleFlamer (yes one) in the middle of these two base logs. Place one or two logs on top (on a diagonal) and light.
	Or, if you're more of a traditionalist and prefer to use both kindling and firelighters, here's what you should do. Place two logs on the grate of your woodburner and place 6-8 sticks of kindling in a jenga-formation on the top of these logs. Using Certainly Woods' Flamers Natural Firelighters, place one of these in the middle of your formation and light.

Read why the top down method is reccomended 

4. Allow the Fire to Ignite:

Once the firelighters have ignited, close the fireplace screen or door but leave the vents open to allow for airflow. This will encourage the fire to grow by allowing a steady supply of oxygen. 

5. Add Additional Firewood:

As the fire develops, add more kiln dried logs gradually. Start with smaller logs and progress to larger ones as the fire becomes well-established. Remember to maintain proper spacing between the logs to facilitate air circulation. Once the fire is established, turn the close/turn down the vents to control the fire.

6. Monitor and Adjust:

Keep an eye on the fire as it burns. Use the fireplace tools to adjust the logs, ensuring they are positioned properly and allowing the fire to burn evenly. You can also use the tools to push the logs closer together if needed.

7. Enjoy Your Fire:

Once your fire is burning steadily, sit back, relax, and enjoy the cosy warmth and mesmerising flames. Remember to follow safety guidelines, never leave a fire unattended, and keep flammable items at a safe distance from the fireplace.

Starting a fire in your fireplace is an enjoyable experience that can bring warmth and ambiance to your home. With our high-quality kiln dried logs and fire accesories, you can create a safe and efficient fire every time. By following this beginner's guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of starting a fire and enjoying the many benefits it brings to your living space.

Stay warm and cosy with Certainly Wood, your trusted partner for all your firewood needs.