The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea
Clay is the most popular material used to create chimineas. Think of terracotta ware or red pottery. Clay is extremely durable and hard but can crack when handled improperly.
Clay is very absorbent, so it needs to be protected with sand and gravel at the bottom of the chiminea along with some kindling or logs. This prevents the clay from burning too hot and prevents hairline cracks from becoming.
Materials
The chimineas made of clay (also known as pot-bellied or ovens) have a chimney which directs smoke upwards. These chimineas are coated with glazes to guard them against weathering and cracking caused by sudden temperature fluctuations. However, they are still susceptible to sun and rain. It is therefore important to cover them when not in use and to prevent water puddles from forming inside the clay.
The majority of chimineas are made from clay terracotta. Other materials such as steel and cast iron can be used as well. Terracotta provides an authentic Mexican-inspired design while cast iron and aluminum are durable options that require less maintenance than terracotta. Some manufacturers also offer modern styles that combine the beauty of a clay chiminea with the strength of metal.
Many people pair their chimineas with flowering or evergreen plants. This gives a natural appearance to complement the ambiance in their backyard. It is crucial to select the right plant combinations, as a chiminea needs to be placed in a space that is free of overhead structures that could catch fire. It is also essential to ensure that the chiminea is located on a safe surface such as brick, concrete or stone patios.
Chimines are typically constructed by hand using high-fired clay that could be coated with glaze. The person who forms the clay is known as a potter, and they can either throw the piece on a potter's wheel, or with a plaster mould. In either case, the clay is smoothed and kneaded before being dried. Certain chimineas made of clay are pre-grogged with a substance that helps to withstand thermal stresses that are susceptible to cracking traditional earthenware.
Other chimineas are made in molds made of metal, which gives them a variety of styles and shapes to fit any backyard. Cast iron chimineas are heavier than clay versions, but they hold up better to the elements and are not as prone to cracking or breaking due to sudden temperature changes like clay. They are cheaper than other kinds of chimineas too and come with gas-burning models too to provide additional versatility.
Styles
A chiminea is designed to look like an outdoor fireplace, and can be decorated with various materials and styles. Terracotta chimineas provide the classic design that dates back centuries, while metal alternatives are more durable and able to handle high temperatures. Many chimineas have designs and patterns that match the furniture of the patio. A rusty finish, for example can give your chiminea an old-fashioned look especially if you match it with iron or wood patio furniture.
Chimineas are typically designed to be freestanding, but they could also be placed on a brick, stone or concrete patio. No matter where you choose to place your chiminea choose a location that is safe from winds and is away from explosive structures or plants. It is important to remember that chimineas can emit smoke and soot that can affect the air quality in the surrounding area.
Some chimineas feature a chimney opening at the bottom, whereas others are squat and have a point upwards. Both styles are available with or without a large opening to accommodate firewood. The chimneys on squat models are designed to be formed to create a more dramatic appearance and also add visual appeal.
You can also include decorative elements on the exterior of your chiminea such as wrought iron, granite, or marble. Consider a copper or ceramic top to add a bit of style. The shiny sheen of these finishes helps to reflect the light off your chiminea and improves the overall appearance of your chiminea.
A regular chiminea polish is a great way to protect your outdoor fire pit from harm and enhance it. Use a natural polishing agent, such as beeswax or olive oil, to buff the surface and achieve a rich Ceramic chimineas glow. Apply a thin coat and gently rub it in before rinsing and drying the chiminea for a radiant result.
Chimineas are quite a bit of work, but with the right care and attention your chiminea outside will remain stylish for many years. By implementing practical decorating and maintenance strategies, you can enjoy your backyard chiminea all through the colder months.
Safety
Despite being popular Chimineas can be risky if they're not used properly. Clay chimineas are susceptible to cracking, especially those that aren't glaze-coated. They also pose a fire hazard if too close to other materials that are flammable, such as your home, outdoor furniture and the surrounding garden. It is best to utilize a chiminea in the outdoors and in an area that is fenced or surrounded by fire-safe materials.
Keep a fire extinguisher near you and use it to extinguish small fires, or hot coals, which may happen while you tend to your flame. You could also use a long lighter to lighting your fire, and then move the coals using tongs rather than your hands. It is also a good idea to keep a bucket of water nearby in case you need to remove the chiminea. However, it is important to never use water to extinguish a chiminea that has been cool and to only add water after the fire has gone out naturally or if a huge fire is at risk of bursting into the chimney.
The draft that is created by a chiminea can carry sparks upward through the stack, which is why it is essential to shield your property and your neighbors from accidental burns with simple spark arrestors constructed from chicken wire that is placed on the top of the smokestack. Chimineas can also become extremely hot and the surrounding area. It is recommended to put up a low wall to warn people against getting too close.
Do not burn your chiminea in rainy or windy conditions. The sparks can cause a chimney to catch on fire, which could cause damage to your home. Make sure to inquire with your local fire department if there burning restrictions in place prior to using a chiminea. You should also clean the area around the chiminea before adding firewood, making sure there aren't any substances that can ignite around. It is also recommended to wash the inside of your chiminea following each use to prevent ash buildup that can cause smoke inhalation and a sooty exterior.
Maintenance
Despite the fact that they can be used for outdoor fires clay chimineas aren't maintenance-free devices. To ensure their durability they must be handled exactly the same way as all clay products. It is essential to not let them get too hot and to allow them to cool down between usages. They must also be sanded frequently and sealed to stop the paint from being damaged.
The first step in keeping your chiminea in good shape is to clear the ashes that have accumulated after each use, but only after it has completely cooled down. It will still be warm, even if it appears to have cooled down, so use the smallest rake and brush to get rid of the ash. After you have carefully swept away the ash and disposed of the debris the next step would be to fill the bottom of the chiminea either sand or gravel. This is vital, as if you don't do this, the chiminea will crack. The clay absorbs moisture and can crack if it gets too dried.
Some sources suggest treating the exterior of a chiminea with an acrylic waterproofing solution, similar to the ones used to seal tiles. This will stop moisture from damaging the chiminea. It is recommended that the chiminea is sanded and resealed every 6 to 8 weeks during periods of heavy use.
Chimineas should only be burnt on bare, fire-safe surfaces. They should not be placed on wood decking or on any other kind of overhead cover. Only using wood that is well-seasoned will decrease the amount of sparks and stop the clay from cracking.
Because a chiminea is made of clay, it won't last forever, but it is extremely difficult to break unless you hit it with a hammer or drop it. Cracks can appear for many reasons, including poor burning or a lack of maintenance. They are also susceptible to rust and need to be kept covered, at least when not in use. This will keep snow and rain off of it, so that it doesn't start to corrode the metal parts of the chiminea.