Hearth & Home: Secrets to Building a Great Fire

The thing our family most looks forward to in the fall is that first night that we can get a nice fire started in the fireplace. Now that it’s finally getting chilly in the Carolinas, I’m thinking this is going to be the weekend for it. There is just something so cozy and soothing about the crackling logs and dancing flames; it makes me want to snuggle up with a glass of wine and a good book. Do you love a good fire as much as I do? Then today’s post is for you.

When we first purchased our tiny bungalow, the home was perfect for us in almost every way except for two things: it lacked closets, and a fireplace. So over the course of time we remedied the situation, expanding the closets and installing a brand new chimney and double-sided fireplace between the living and dining room. Here are some before/after photos:

Before (the blue tape marked where the fireplace would be)

After

It’s important to specify width and length of logs to fit the size of your fireplace or wood burning stove. You’ll also want to be sure to order hard woods like oak or ash – they burn more cleanly than sappy woods like pine. Once you’re ready to get your fire going, 1-2 starter briquettes positioned below the logs will help it ignite quickly. Then, as the fire burns, periodically add logs as needed. We find that our fires burn cleanest, with the least amount of smoke when both sets of glass doors are open. The inner mesh curtains help prevent any escaping embers.

Our fireplace is cleaned out and ready for the crisp cool nights ahead.

Our wood pile is stacked and dried, the fireplace ready to go. Now we just need a cold night and the perfect bottle of wine! Hope everyone stays cozy this winter.