How to Build a Fire
You don't have to be an expert to know how to properly build a fire in a fireplace. Knowing what type of materials to use is an important part of building a flame that will last. Building a fire is fairly simple, but maintaining it is more difficult.
How to Build a Fire
Make sure the hearth is cleared of anything flammable.
Place 3 sheets of crumbled paper in the fireplace grate.
Place 1/2" x 10" pieces of kindling on top of the paper
Crisscross 8 to 10 pieces of hardwood, such as oak, maple, cherry or hickory, on top of the kindling.
Use a long matcher to light the paper in the fireplace grate, which will ignite the kindling and the kindling will light the hardwood.
Add 2 to 3 pieces of split firewood on top of the hardwood. It should be placed toward the rear of the fireplace to reflect heat in the room as it burns. More wood can be added after the fire is established.
Place a fireplace screen in front of the fire to contain the sparks.