Do I need to use a base batt in my kiln?

It is always a good idea to use a base batt. In kilns which have floor elements it is of course essential, but in kilns without floor elements it should be remembered that there is a region of brick between the floor and the first element groove. This can generate a ‘cold spot’ in the firing which is often overcome by raising ware off the floor of the kiln using the base batt.The brickwork in kilns can be easily damaged by glaze which slowly and progressively dissolves through the brickwork. If a base batt is not used, any glaze running from ware will impact immediately with the brickwork. The base batt protects against this risk, and whilst kiln batts are expensive, it is still much cheaper to replace the batt than the bottom of the kiln.