The recommendations, suggestions, statements and technical data in this
document are based on our best knowledge at the time of publication. They are
provided for informational purposes only and without any responsibility for their use.
REFERENCES
New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code
National Fire Protection Association
, Quincy, MA
International Code Council
International Building Code
International Residential Code (Country Club Hills, IL)
USA – Clay Flue Lining Institute
National Concrete Masonry Association (Herndon, VA)
Brick Industry Association of America (Reston, VA)
NEW YORK STATE CONCRETE MASONRY ASSOCIATION
347 McKennan Rd., Frankfort, NY 13340
Phone
315.254.0518
Fax
315.883.1342
nyscma.org
©2017 New York State Concrete Masonry Association, Inc. All rights reserved.
STEPS FOR SAFE FIREPLACE STARTING / OPERATION
A fireplace fire, properly laid and fed is easy to tend to and should provide years of trouble-free
enjoyment. Here are some tips for building a fire:
• Be sure the damper is open before lighting the fire!
• Use a small amount of paper and kindling wood to lay
down the base. Place three small split logs directly on
top. Space the logs to allow air to flow freely.
• Use wadded paper to light the fire. Hold the burning
wand at damper level to start the draft, then lower it to
the paper / kindling stack.
• As the kindling burns, add two or three pieces of wood
– small logs are best at first. Stack the logs so that the
flames can get between them. Use larger logs when the
flames are well established.
• The use of glass doors or screens is recommended
for the safe and thermally efficient use of the fireplace.
Keep the screen closed when the fire is burning.
• Use slow burning hardwoods as these make the best
fuel. Green wood gives off less heat and can cause
excess creosote to build up in the chimney.
• When ashes build up under the grate, all but a base
layer of about 1 inch thick should be removed. Never
use a fireplace as an incinerator.
For commercial or industrial appliance applications
please consult your local building inspector for the proper
building code.
