A little patience now helps create years of enjoyment.
Your new fireplace or fire pit was built to become a favorite gathering place, but like any new masonry feature, it needs a little time to get acquainted with the heat.
The mortar, masonry and other materials contain moisture and need to gradually adjust to temperature changes. Starting with small fires allows everything to cure and settle in slowly, reducing the risk of cracking or thermal shock.
Think of the first few fires as a gentle introduction.
YOUR FIRST FIRES
1. Let it cure first - Before lighting your first fire, allow the installation to fully cure according to the materials and system used for your project.
2. Start SMALL - For your first fire, use a small amount of dry kindling and 1–2 small pieces of firewood. The goal is a gentle, controlled fire, not a roaring inferno. Allow it to burn for approximately 30–60 minutes, then let it go out naturally. Do not add more wood simply to make the fire bigger.
3. Repeat before going BIG - For the next several fires, gradually increase the size and duration of the fire.
A good progression is:
- Fire 1: Very small
- Fire 2: Small
- Fire 3: Small–medium
- Fire 4: Medium
- Fire 5+: Normal use
Give the fireplace or fire pit plenty of time to cool completely between the first few fires. Many manufacturers recommend several small, short-duration fires before moving to normal operation.
A FEW THINGS TO REMEMBER
🔥 Use dry, seasoned firewood.
Wet or green wood creates excessive smoke and can contribute to buildup inside a fireplace or chimney.
🔥 Don't overload the fire.
A larger fire isn't a better fire. Keep the flames and heat appropriate for the size of your feature.
🔥 Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Never pour water onto hot masonry to extinguish a fire. Allow the fire to burn down naturally whenever possible and let the masonry cool gradually.
🔥 Expect some normal movement.
Masonry expands and contracts as it heats and cools. Minor changes can occur as your fireplace or fire pit experiences its first several heating cycles.
🔥 Inspect before each use.
If you notice significant cracking, loose masonry, damaged firebrick or anything that doesn't look right, discontinue use and contact Plants Creative.
THEN…ENJOY IT.
Once your fireplace or fire pit has completed its initial break-in period, you can begin enjoying it normally.
Gather your people.
Pour something good.
Stay awhile.
We designed this space to be lived in.
QUESTIONS?
Contact our team at Plants Creative Landscapes. We're always happy to help!
