Wood Burning Safety Tips Every DFW Homeowner Needs to Know

Safe Wood Burning Starts Before the First Match

Many chimney problems we see in Dallas-Fort Worth homes can be traced back to improper burning practices.

Choose the Right Firewood

Seasoned Hardwood Only

Firewood should be seasoned (dried) for at least 6-12 months. Burning green or wet wood produces excessive smoke and dramatically increases creosote buildup.

How to tell if wood is seasoned:

• Ends show cracks and splits
• Bark is loose or falling off
• Wood feels lightweight
• Two pieces clacked together sound hollow

Best Woods for DFW Fireplaces

• Post Oak – excellent heat, long burn time, readily available in North Texas
• Pecan – good heat with a pleasant aroma, common in DFW
• Mesquite – very hot burn, great for short fires, abundant in Texas
• Hickory – excellent heat output, burns clean

Woods to Avoid

• Pine, Cedar, Fir – softwoods that produce excessive creosote and sparking
• Treated or painted wood – releases toxic chemicals
• Green or freshly cut wood – excessive smoke and creosote

Safe Burning Practices

Before Lighting a Fire

1. Open the damper fully before lighting
2. Check that the chimney cap is in place
3. Remove ashes if buildup exceeds 1 inch
4. Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working
5. Move any combustibles at least 3 feet from the fireplace

While the Fire Burns

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Use a fireplace screen or glass doors to contain sparks
• Do not burn too much wood at once
• Never use gasoline, kerosene, or lighter fluid to start a fire
• Do not close the damper while the fire is burning

After the Fire

• Allow coals to burn down completely
• Leave the damper open until ashes are completely cool (12-24 hours)
• Store ashes in a metal container with a tight lid, away from the house

Common Mistakes DFW Homeowners Make

Burning the Christmas Tree

Extremely dangerous – dry evergreen trees can create explosive flames that shoot up the chimney.

Using the Fireplace as a Furnace

Fireplaces are supplemental heat sources. Running continuously puts excessive stress on the chimney.

When to Stop Using Your Fireplace

Stop burning immediately and call a professional if you notice:

• Smoke entering the room instead of going up the chimney
• A strong, unpleasant odor from the fireplace
• Visible cracks in the firebox or mortar
• Water in the firebox
• A rumbling or roaring sound from the chimney (possible chimney fire)

Blue Flue Solutions provides professional chimney inspection and cleaning throughout Dallas-Fort Worth. Call or Text (469) 207-1203.