How to stack wood in fire pit

In order to build a successful fire in your backyard wood burning fire pit, you need to know how to stack wood in fire pit in a right way.  You can’t just throw all of your pieces into one big pile and expect it to catch fire; instead, carefully follow these instructions when stacking your kindling and logs for a fire that will burn with maximum efficiency.

Type of wood you want to stack

When it comes to building a fire, there are two basic types of wood you can use: logs and split logs.  Here’s a look at the essentials you need to know about each type of wood before trying your hand at stacking a firewood pile in your yard.

Logs-

Logs may be more difficult to find than split logs, but they are essential for building a proper fire.  Logs contain many dry and dense sides that will burn quickly and stay hot longer than the sides of split logs.

You’ll need to use several smaller pieces of wood when you build a fire with logs; we recommend stacking kindling and logs in alternating rows of one kindling row and two log rows.  This will ensure that the logs burn evenly.

Split logs-

Split logs are easier to acquire than whole logs; they’re also ideal for building a strong and long-lasting fire because the individual pieces of wood contain more dry surface area than a single, dense log.  One big issue with split logs is that they can be heavy and hard to move and carry, and the process of splitting a log by hand takes time.

However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, split logs are great for building longer-lasting fires.  Since the logs are smaller pieces–they might contain as many as three or four smaller pieces–you’ll need to stack your kindling and split logs in alternating rows of one kindling row and two log rows.  This will ensure that the logs burn evenly.

In order to learn how to stack wood in a fire pit, you should first plan on purchasing split logs from a commercial supplier or from a friend who has a log splitter and is willing to part with some of the firewood.  If you’re going to cut your own logs, proceed with caution; always wear protective clothing and headgear that will shield your skin from flying wood chips.

How to stack wood in fire pit

Before you stack any wood in a fire pit, it’s important to prepare the area where you’ll be burning the fire.  Make sure the pit is clean and free from any flammable materials, such as leaves, grass, or newspaper.  If you’re using a grate in your fire pit, place it in the center of the pit before stacking your wood around it.

Once you have all of your materials ready, follow these steps to stack your wood correctly:

1. Begin by stacking the kindling around the perimeter of the fire pit, slightly elevated so that air can circulate underneath.
2. Next, stack the split logs in alternating rows around the kindling.
3. Leave a space in the middle of the fire pit for your grate, if you’re using one.
4. Finally, top off your firewood stack with a few pieces of log to serve as a protective layer.

If you’re using a gas or electric grill instead of a fire pit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for stacking the wood.

Tips and instructions for stacking wood in fire pit

• When stacking logs, try to find pieces that are as straight and flat as possible.
• If you’re using split logs, it’s important to stack them in alternating rows for even burning.
• Leave a space in the middle of your firewood stack for your grate, if you’re using one.
• Always wear protective clothing when splitting logs by hand.
• Make sure the area where you’ll be burning the fire is clean and free from flammable materials.
• Follow these same steps to stack logs for outdoor fire pits or gas grills.
• If you’re using logs that are too heavy to carry, ask a friend or family member for help before attempting to stack them.

FAQs

 Q: What are the best kinds of logs to use in a fire pit?

A: There is no “best” kind of log.  It depends on what you like, where you live, and how much effort you want to put into your firewood operation.  If you’re looking for convenience, choose split logs.  If you want a long-lasting fire, choose whole logs.  You can also use wood chips or pellets if you’re finding it difficult to acquire split logs or if you’d like a cleaner burning fire that requires less maintenance throughout the night.

Q: What tools should I use to stack my firewood?

A: If you’re using whole logs, you’ll need a sturdy ladder to carry the logs and place them in your firewood stack.  If you’re splitting logs by hand, it’s a good idea to have a splitting maul and either a chopping block or stump to stand on.  You may also want a wheelbarrow or dolly to help you transport the logs to your fire pit.

Q: What should I do if I have too much wood to fit in my fire pit?

A: If you have more wood that will fit in your fire pit, consider building a raised fire pit or ring of stones around the perimeter of the original pit.

Q: What should I do if my fire pit is too small for the amount of wood I have?

A: If your fire pit is too small for the amount of wood you have, you can either move the logs around to create more space, or consider building a raised fire pit or ring of stones around the perimeter of the original pit.

Conclusion:

As you see how to stack wood in fire pit is not a difficult task. The Best way to stack wood in a fire pit is by stacking alternating rows of split logs around the outside perimeter, leaving a space in the middle for your grate or log lighter.

When stacking wood in a fire pit, it’s important to wear protective clothing and lay down a ground cover such as newspaper before you start work. Before you start stacking your wood, make sure to gather all of the necessary materials including kindling, split logs, a grate (if needed), and protective top layer.