How to light a log fire: the fool-proof guide

24 Mar

There’s nothing quite like the snap and crackle of a real log fire! Whether you’re settling in for a chilly winter evening or just want to add a bit of atmosphere to your living room, getting that fire roaring shouldn’t be a chore.

At A&C Logs, we believe the secret to a perfect fire lies in the preparation. Here‘s our simple, step-by-step guide to lighting a fire that stays lit…

What You’ll Need

Before you strike a match, ensure you have the following essentials:

Dry Kindling: Thinly split pieces of softwood.
Kiln-Dried Logs: Always use wood with a moisture content below 20% for a cleaner, hotter burn.
Natural Firelighters: Wood shavings or wool types are much better for your chimney than chemical versions.
Matches or a Long Lighter.
A Bed of Ash: If using a wood burner, leave about an inch of old ash to insulate the fire.

The Step-by-Step Method

We recommend the "Top-Down" method. It might sound counter-intuitive, but it heats the flue faster and reduces smoke, making it much more eco-friendly.

1. The Log Base

Place two medium-sized kiln-dried logs across the bottom of your grate or stove. Leave a small gap between them to allow air to circulate.

2. The Kindling Stack

Place a layer of kindling across the logs in a "Jenga" style (perpendicular to the logs). Add a second layer of kindling on top of that.

3. The Firelighter

Place 1 or 2 natural firelighters on top of your kindling stack. By lighting the fire from the top, the heat immediately starts warming the chimney, which creates the "draw" needed to pull air through the fire.

4. Light It Up

Strike your match and light the firelighters.

If using a wood burner: Leave the door slightly ajar (about an inch) for 5–10 minutes. This provides a "turbo-boost" of oxygen to get the kindling glowing.
If using an open fire: Ensure your fire guard is nearby but allow plenty of air to reach the flames.

5. Closing Up & Adding Fuel

Once the kindling is burning vigorously and has started to char the logs below, close the stove door fully and adjust the air vents. Avoid adding large logs too early; wait until you have a solid bed of glowing embers.

Pro Tips for a Better Burn

Top Tip: Never use "wet" or unseasoned wood. Not only does it produce very little heat, but it also creates soot and creosote buildup, which can lead to chimney fires.

✔ Use Kiln-Dried Logs for maximum heat.

✗ Don't use glossy magazines or plastics as fuel!

✔ Keep your chimney swept annually.

✗ Don't overload the stove; logs need air to breathe.

✔ Use a moisture meter if you aren't sure.

✗ Don't leave the fire unattended with the door open.