The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea
The most popular type of chiminea is made from clay. Think terra cotta plant pots or the red pottery ones. Clay is extremely durable and hard, but it can crack if not handled properly.
The chiminea's clay is highly absorbent and needs to be protected by sand or gravel at the bottom along with logs, kindling, and other materials. This stops the clay from becoming too hot and closes any hairline cracks.
Materials
Traditional clay chimineas, sometimes called pot-bellied ovens, come with a chimney that directs smoke into the air. These types of chimineas are usually coated to protect them from weathering and cracking due to sudden temperature changes. They are still susceptible to rain and sunlight. It is therefore important to cover them when not in use and to stop water puddles from forming within the clay.
Most chimineas, however, are made of terracotta clay. Other materials like cast iron and steel could be used as well. Terracotta is an authentic Mexican-inspired design as well as cast iron and aluminum are sturdy alternatives that require less care than terracotta. Certain manufacturers also offer contemporary designs that combine the elegance of a clay chiminea and the durability of metal.
Many people opt to match their chimineas with evergreens or flowering plants. This creates an organic look that enhances the natural beauty of their backyard. It is essential to carefully choose the plant combinations, however, because a Chiminea needs to be placed in a spot that is free from structures that can catch fire. It is important to ensure that the chiminea sits on a fire-safe area such as brick, concrete, or stone patio.
Chiminesas are made by hand using high-fired unglazed clay. The artisan who shapes the clay is known as a potter, and they can throw the piece on a potter's wheel, or using a mould for plaster. In either case, clay is kneaded prior allowed to dry. Certain chimineas made of clay are pre-grogged, which is an additive that helps them resist thermal stresses that are prone to cracking traditional earthenware.
Other chimineas are made in metal moulds, which give them a variety of designs and shapes to fit any backyard. Cast iron chimineas weigh more than clay ones, but they hold up better to the elements and aren't as prone to cracking or breaking because of sudden temperature changes like clay. They are more affordable than other types of chimineas, too and are available in gas-burning models, too to provide additional versatility.
Styles
A chiminea is designed to resemble an outdoor fireplace, and can be decorated with different materials and styles. Terracotta chimineas have an elegant look that has been around for centuries, while metal chimineas are more durable and are able to withstand high temperatures. Many chimineas have decorative patterns and designs that complement the surrounding patio furnishings. A rustic finish, for example, can give your chiminea an old-fashioned look particularly if you pair it with wood or iron patio furniture.
Chimineas are often designed to be freestanding, but they can also be erected on a brick, stone, or concrete patio. Whatever you decide to place your chiminea, ensure that it is sheltered from winds and is away from flame-prone plants or structures. It is important to remember that chimineas release smoke and soot, which can affect the quality of the air in the surrounding area.
Some chimineas feature an opening for the chimney at the bottom, and others are squat and have a pointed upwards. Both styles are available with or without an opening to allow for the addition of firewood. The chimneys on squat models are designed to be formed to create an impressive appearance and also add visual appeal.
You can also include decorative elements on the outside of your chiminea such as wrought iron, granite, or marble. Think about a copper or ceramic top for a touch of elegance. The glossy shine of these finishes help to reflect light from your fire and enhances the overall appearance of your chiminea.
Regular chiminea polishing is a good option to enhance your fire pit outside and shield it from harm. Utilize olive oil, beeswax or other natural products to polish the surface for an elegant, glowing look. Apply a thin coating and gently rub, then rinse and dry the chiminea for a radiant result.
Chimineas require a lot of maintenance, but with proper care and attention, your unique outdoor chiminea will look stylish for years to come. By using effective decorating strategies and keeping your chiminea, you will be able to enjoy it well into the colder months.
Safety
Despite being popular, chimineas can be dangerous if not used properly. Clay chimineas are susceptible to cracking, especially those that are not glaze-coated. They can also pose a fire risk in proximity to flammable materials like your home, furniture outdoors and the garden. You should use your chiminea outdoors and in a location that is protected by a fire-resistant material or fenced.
Keep a fire extinguisher near you and use it to put out small flames or hot coals that might occur while you tend to your flame. It is also an excellent idea to make use of a long lighter to light the fire and to move coals with tongs instead of using your hands. It is also a good idea to keep an extra bucket of water in the vicinity in case you need to extinguish the chiminea. It is important not to use water to extinguish the fire of a chiminea after it has cool. Instead add water only after the fire has completely died down or when the chimney is in danger of bursting.
The draft created by a chiminea could carry sparks upward through the stack, so it is crucial to safeguard your property and your neighbors from accidental burns with a simple spark arrestor constructed from chicken wire that is placed on the top of the stack. Chimineas also generate lots of heat, and the area surrounding them can get extremely hot, so it is recommended to put up a wall around the chiminea to remind people that getting too close could result in painful burns.
You should never burn your chiminea when it is raining or windy weather, as sparks can set plants on fire and could potentially cause a chimney fire which could damage your home. Before you use a chiminea, check with your local fire department to confirm that there are no burning bans in place. You should also clean the area around the chiminea prior adding firewood, and ensure that there aren't any objects that could ignite nearby. It is also an excellent idea to clean the inside of your chiminea following each use to stop the accumulation of ash that could result in smoke inhalation as well as a sooty exterior.
Maintenance
Despite the fact that they can be used for outdoor fires clay chimineas aren't easy to maintain devices. To ensure their durability, they must be treated in the same way as other clay products. It is important to not let them get too hot and to allow them to cool between use. They must also be sanded frequently and sealed to stop the paint from being damaged.
It is essential to clean the ashes after each use of your chiminea but only when it has completely been cooled. Even though it may appear to be cooling down but the ash will be hot. Use a small brush and rake to get rid of it. After you have cleaned the ash out and disposed of it in a careful manner, the next step is to fill the bottom with gravel or sand. This is crucial, as in the event that you fail to do this, the chiminea will crack. This is due to the fact that clay absorbs water and can crack if it is too dry.
Some sources recommend sealing the outside of the chiminea using an acrylic waterproofing agent, similar to the ones used to seal tiles. This will prevent moisture from getting into the chiminea and damaging it. During periods of heavy use, it is recommended to remove the chiminea and sand it every 6-8 weeks.
Chimineas should be burned only on fire-safe, bare surfaces. They should never be placed on wood decking or on any other kind of overhead covering. Utilizing only wood that is best chiminea well-seasoned can also decrease the number of sparks generated and prevent cracking the clay.
Because a chiminea is made out of clay, it is unlikely to last forever, but it is difficult to break unless you beat it with an hammer or drop it. However, cracks can form due to a variety reasons, including inadequate burning or a lack of maintenance. They also have the potential to rust, which is why they should be covered when not in use. This will keep snow and rain from corroding the metal components.