3 Tips to Make Your Fire Last Longer

When you light up your wood burner or open fire, you want the flames to last as long as possible without constantly topping up with more logs. By following a few simple techniques, you can enjoy a hotter, cleaner burn that maximises your fuel and keeps your home warm for longer.

In this guide, we’ll share three essential tips to make your fire last longer using kiln-dried logs, along with advice on the best fuels and storage practices.

Why Firewood Efficiency Matters

Burning logs efficiently isn’t just about comfort — it also saves you money, reduces waste, and minimises environmental impact. At Peak Logs, we supply kiln-dried softwood and hardwood logs that are Woodsure Ready to Burn certified, with a moisture content under 18% for maximum heat output.

Tip 1: Choose the Right Type of Firewood

Not all firewood burns the same. The type of logs you use will have a big impact on how long your fire lasts:

• Hardwood logs – Burn slower and provide a longer-lasting heat, ideal for overnight burns or when you want a steady fire.
• Softwood logs – Burn hotter and faster, great for quickly heating up a room but may require more frequent refuelling.

For the best results, many customers combine hardwood for longevity with softwood for fast ignition.

Tip 2: Stack and Store Your Logs Properly

Even the best quality logs won’t burn efficiently if they’re stored incorrectly. Firewood exposed to damp conditions will smoulder instead of burning cleanly. To make your fire last longer, ensure your logs stay dry and well-ventilated.

Best Places to Store Logs

• In a dedicated log store with airflow and a slanted roof.
• On raised racks to keep them off damp ground.
• In a well-ventilated shed or garage.

Tip 3: Control the Airflow in Your Stove

Airflow is one of the most important factors in controlling how your fire burns.

• Too much airflow and the fire will burn too quickly, using up your logs faster.
• Too little airflow and your logs will smoulder, producing more smoke and less heat.

The key is balance: start with plenty of airflow when lighting the fire, then gradually reduce it once the flames are established to maintain a steady, longer-lasting burn.

Additional Ways to Improve Burn Time

• Use quality kindling and natural firelighters to get your fire started quickly.
• Stack logs with small gaps between them to improve circulation.
• Avoid overloading your stove — smaller, consistent top-ups keep the fire efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of wood burns the longest?

Hardwood logs such as ash and oak burn longer than softwood because of their higher density. Many customers use hardwood for overnight burns.

How do I stop my fire from going out too quickly?

Check that your logs are fully kiln-dried, store them properly, and reduce the airflow once your fire is established to slow down the burn.

Should I mix hardwood and softwood logs?

Yes — many households combine softwood for fast ignition and high heat with hardwood for a slow, steady burn. This balance makes your fire last longer and keeps your home cosy.

Final Thoughts

Making your fire last longer doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right choice of logs, proper storage, and effective airflow control, you can enjoy efficient, long-lasting fires all season.