Quick Answer
A fire lay made from hardwoods such as mesquite, hickory, and oak burns efficiently and produces a long-lasting flame. Softwoods like pine and fir can produce a lot of smoke and should be used in moderation. Well-seasoned hardwoods are ideal.
Choosing the Right Wood for a Fire Lay
When selecting wood for a fire lay, look for hardwoods with a high energy density, such as mesquite and hickory. These woods burn hot and produce a long-lasting flame. Oak is another good option, but it can be more difficult to split. Aim for wood that is well-seasoned, meaning it has been left to dry for at least six months. This will help it burn more efficiently and produce less smoke.
Creating the Fire Lay
To create a fire lay, start by placing a small amount of kindling in the center of the fire pit. This can be made from twigs and small sticks. Arrange the kindling in a teepee shape, leaving enough space in the center for air to flow. Next, place a few larger logs around the kindling, leaving about an inch of space between each log. Arrange the logs in a crisscross pattern, with the largest logs on the outside. Leave space in the center for the kindling to burn. This will help the fire get enough oxygen to burn efficiently.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Fire
To keep the fire burning for a long time, make sure to leave space in the center for air to flow. You can also add larger logs as the fire burns down, replacing the smaller logs. Keep the fire lay loose, so the air can flow easily. This will help the fire burn more efficiently and produce a longer-lasting flame.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.