I used to crack the door too long,,,have learned you don't always have to....I am in between on my vote...from my experience I agree with the others,,,sometimes you have to crack it other times no....Depends on the wood and other factors. Some of our wood catches quickly, before I close the door. Funny thing: when I first started learning I would sit right in front of the stove while it was catching, I would watch it, don't know why, the husband said I reminded him of the little girl from poltergeist in front of that tv..... :lol: