The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea
Clay is the most common material used to make chimineas. Think of terra cotta pots or the red pottery ones. Clay is extremely durable and hard but can crack if not handled properly.
Clay is extremely absorbent, so it needs to be protected by sand and gravel at the bottom of the chiminea along with logs or kindling. This prevents the clay from burning too hot and seals hairline cracks.
Materials
The chimineas made of clay (also called pot-bellied ovens) feature a chimney that directs smoke upwards. chiminea extra large of this type have glazes to guard them from cracking and weathering caused by sudden temperature fluctuations. They are nevertheless susceptible to sun and rain. Therefore, it is important to cover them when not in use to prevent water puddles from forming inside the clay.
The majority of chimineas are created from terracotta clay, although other materials such as cast iron and steel are also available. Terracotta provides an authentic Mexican-inspired design while aluminum and cast iron are sturdy options that require less maintenance than the terracotta. Some manufacturers offer modern designs that combine the beauty and durability of a chiminea made of clay.
Many people pair their chimineas with flowering or evergreen plants. This gives a natural appearance to enhance the ambience in their backyard. It is important to choose plant pairings carefully, though the chiminea has to be located in a place that is free of structures that can catch fire. It is also important to ensure that the chiminea is placed on a fire-safe surface such as brick, concrete or stone patios.
Chiminesas can be made by hand using high-fired, unglazed clay. The person who forms the clay is referred to as a potter. they can throw the piece on a potter's wheel, or using a mould made of plaster. In either case, the clay is kneaded and smoothed before being allowed to dry. Certain chimineas made of clay are pre-grogged with a substance that can help them withstand thermal stresses that can lead to cracking traditional earthenware.
Other chimineas can be made in metal moulds, which give them various designs and shapes that can be adapted to any backyard. Cast iron chimineas are heavier than clay models but they are more robust and less likely to crack or break due to sudden temperature changes. Cast iron chimineas are cheaper than other types and come in gas-burning versions to provide greater versatility.
Styles
Chimines are designed to look like an outdoor fireplace, and can be decorated with various materials and styles. Terracotta chimineas are a classic style that has been in use for centuries, whereas metal chimineas are stronger and are able to withstand high temperatures. Many chimineas have decorative patterns and designs that complement the surrounding patio furnishings. A rusty patina finish for instance, can give a chiminea an old-fashioned style, especially when it is paired with iron and 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 pick a spot that is sheltered from winds and away from explosive structures or plants. It is important to note that chimineas emit smoke and soot that can impact the quality of the air in the area around it.
Some chimineas have a chimney opening at the bottom, whereas others are squat with a point upwards. Both styles come with or without an opening large enough to add firewood. The chimneys on squat models are capable of being shaped in order to create an even more striking appearance and also add visual appeal.
You can also add decorative elements to the outside of your Chiminea such as wrought iron, marble, or granite. Consider a copper or ceramic top for a touch of style. The glossy shimmer of these finishes can help to reflect the light from your fire and enhances the overall appearance of your chiminea.
A regular chiminea-polish is a good option to protect your outdoor fire pit from harm and also beautify it. Make use of olive oil, beeswax or other natural products to polish the surface for an elegant shining finish. Apply a thin layer of the product and rub gently. Rinse and dry your chiminea to achieve a radiant finish.
Chimineas can be a lot of work, but with the right care and attention, your outdoor chiminea will be fashionable for many years. With the help of effective decorating strategies and keeping your chiminea, you will be able to enjoy it well into the winter months.
Safety
Although chimineas are very popular, they can pose an injury risk if correctly used. Chimineas made of clay are susceptible to cracking, particularly ones that aren't coated with. They also pose an ignition risk if they are too close to flammable objects like your furniture outside, your home and the garden. You should only use your chiminea outdoors, and in an area surrounded by fire-safe material or secured.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy you and use it to extinguish small flames or hot coals that might occur while you tend to your flame. It is also an excellent idea to use a long lighter to light the fire and move the coals around with tongs rather than with your hands. It is also a great idea to keep a bucket of water nearby in case you have to remove the chiminea. However, it is important not to use water to extinguish a fire that has been cool and to only add water after the fire has died naturally or if a large fire is at risk of bursting into the chimney.
A simple spark arrestor, made from chicken wire and positioned on top of the smokestack can safeguard your home as well as your neighbors against accidental burns. Chimineas also produce a lot of heat and the area surrounding them can get extremely hot, so you should put up a low wall around the chiminea to warn people that getting close could result in painful burns.
Don't burn your chiminea when it's stormy or rainy weather. The sparks can cause a chimney to catch fire and cause damage to your home. Check with your local fire department if there burning restrictions in place prior to using a chiminea. Before you add firewood to the chiminea, you should clear the area surrounding it. This will ensure that there aren't any burning materials in the vicinity. Also, you should clean the inside of your fireplace after each use. This will prevent the accumulation of ash, which can cause smoke inhalation, or a sooty outdoor.
Maintenance
Clay chimineas require a bit of maintenance, even though they can be used to build outdoor fires. Like everything made of clay they must be treated with an appropriate amount of care to ensure their longest possible life. It is essential to not let them get too hot and allow them to cool between use. They must also be sanded frequently and sealed to keep the paint from being damaged.
It is important to remove the ashes after each use of your chiminea, but only after it has completely cool. Even though it appears to be cooling down, the ash will still be hot. Use small brushes and rakes to remove it. After you have carefully swept out the ash and removed the debris the next step will be to fill the inside of the chiminea's bottom with either sand or gravel. If you don't do this your chiminea might crack. The clay absorbs moisture and may crack if it is too dry.
Some sources recommend treating the exterior of a chiminea using an acrylic waterproofing solution, similar to the ones used to seal tile. This will stop moisture from damaging the chiminea. It is recommended that the chiminea gets sanded and resealed every 6-8 weeks during times of heavy use.
Chimineas should be burned only on bare, fire-safe surfaces. They should never be placed on wood decking or on any other type of overhead cover. Only using wood that is well-seasoned will lower the amount of sparks and stop the clay from cracking.
Because a chiminea's body is made of clay it will not last forever, however it is difficult to break one unless you smash it with the Hammer or drop it. Cracks can develop for a variety of reasons, such as poor burning or a lack of maintenance. They also are prone to rust, and must be covered when not in use. This will keep the snow and rain off of it, ensuring that it doesn't cause corrosion to the metal components of the chiminea.