Getting rid of bark / sawdust - Compost pile?

[sledhead41]

OK OK it was me. You couldent tell by the pictures, but my old man knew, and taught me NOT to get caught.

 

[mtcsottile]

TreePapa - how do you like that grate wall of fire? Our big, thick cast iron grate burned through this year and we need to replace it.

 

[TreePapa]

TreePapa - how do you like that grate wall of fire? Our big, thick cast iron grate burned through this year and we need to replace it.

It's a mixed bag. On one hand, it actually does put out more heat, esp. when the coal bed is built up a bit. On the other hand, firewood, esp. splits, tends to get piled togther w/o enough space for combustion air. I've taken to cutting some 2-inch (or so) sticks into short (4 to 6 in.) pieces and using them as spacers (perpendicular to the splits, between layers) to achive more air space and better fires.

The back of the firebox in our FP is a collection of angles instead of a straight wall. So we wound up buying the fireback, and I had them make it the same length as the grate. Mistake; if you get the fireback, go with the size recommended for the grate, which is a couple inches shorter than the grate.

Overall, I think I will keep using it. I'd probably even buy it again. I'd like to get an insert or stove for the FP, except for 2 things - (1) the wife doesn't like the idea; and (2) the FP is in the den, which is the smallest room in the house, and closed in. Even a small stove would probably bake us out of the room!

Peace,
- Sequoia

 

[Tony H]

I have like others thrown the bark in a box or bin in the boiler shed and used it for kindling. the small stuff and sawdust I use to replenish the mulched area next to the wood storage and boiler shed to keep the grass and weeds out. We also burn a few times a year "recreational" fires are allowed so I pull out a lawn chain and a beer. The local PD will only respond on a complaint they will just drive on past unless someone calls them.