The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea
The most popular type of chiminea is made out of clay. Think of terracotta pots or red pottery. Clay is durable and hard, but it can crack when handled incorrectly.
Clay is highly absorbent, so it needs to be protected by sand and gravel at the bottom of a chiminea, along with logs or kindling. This stops the clay from burning too hot and prevents hairline cracks from becoming.
Materials
Traditional clay chimineas, also called pot-bellied ovens, have an chimney that releases smoke into the air. These types of chimineas are usually coated to guard against cracking and weathering due to abrupt temperature fluctuations. However, they are still vulnerable to sun and rain. It is therefore essential to cover them when not in use and 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 is the classic Mexican look as well as aluminum and cast iron are sturdy alternatives that require less care than the terracotta. Certain manufacturers also offer contemporary designs that blend the beauty of a chiminea made of clay with the strength of metal.
Many people prefer to pair their chimineas with flowers or evergreens. This gives a natural look that complements the ambiance of their backyard. It is important to carefully select the plants you want to plant since a Chiminea should be placed in a location free of structures that could catch fire. It is also crucial to make sure that the chiminea is located on a fire-proof surface like brick, concrete or stone patios.
A chiminea is typically built by hand using high-fired clay, which could be coated with glaze. The artisan who shapes the clay is known as a potter, and they can create the chiminea on a potter's wheel, or using a mould made of plaster. In either case the clay is smoothed and kneaded before being dried. Some newer clay chimineas are pre-grogged with a substance that helps to withstand thermal stresses that are prone to cracking traditional earthenware.
Other chimineas are made using metal moulds that give them a variety of designs and shapes to fit any backyard. Cast iron chimineas can be heavier than clay models however they are more durable and less likely to break or crack because of sudden temperature fluctuations. Cast iron chimineas are also cheaper than other types, and are available in gas-burning versions to provide greater versatility.
Styles
Chimines are designed to resemble an outdoor fireplace and can be decorated with different materials and styles. Terracotta chimineas feature an elegant look that has been around for centuries, whereas metal chimineas are more durable and are able to withstand high temperatures. Many chimineas feature decorative patterns and designs that complement the surrounding patio furnishings. A rustic patina finish, for example, can give a chiminea an antique look, particularly when it is coupled with iron and wood patio furniture.
Chimineas can be a freestanding structure or a mounted on a patio constructed of brick, stone or concrete. No matter where you choose to place your chiminea pick a spot that is protected from wind and is away from flammable plants or structures. It is important to keep in mind that chimineas release smoke and soot, which could affect the quality of the air in the surrounding area.
Some chimineas have an opening for the chimney at the bottom, whereas others are squat and have an upwards-facing point. Both designs come with or without an opening big enough to hold firewood. The chimneys of squat models may also be shaped to add visual appeal and create a more dramatic appearance.
You can also include decorative elements on the outside of your chiminea like wrought iron granite, or marble. To add a touch of flair, you might consider a ceramic or copper top. The lustrous shimmer of these finishes can help to reflect the light off your chiminea and improves the overall appearance of your chiminea.
A regular chiminea-polish is another method to shield your outdoor fire pit from harm and beautify it. Use a natural polishing agent like beeswax, or olive oil, to smooth the surface to create a rich glow. Apply a thin coat and rub gently after which rinse and dry the chiminea to get a stunning result.
Chimineas require a lot maintenance, but with the right care and attention your creative outdoor chiminea can remain stylish for many years to come. With the help of practical decorating and maintenance strategies, you can enjoy your backyard chiminea throughout the winter months.
Safety
Although they are popular Chimineas can be dangerous if they are not handled correctly. Chimineas made of clay, particularly ones that are not glazed, are susceptible to breaking and cracking. They also pose a fire hazard when they are placed near other flammable materials like your furniture, your home and the surrounding garden. You should only 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 put out small fires, or hot coals, that might occur while you are tending your flame. It is also recommended to employ a long lighter in order to light your fire and to move coals around with tongs instead of using your hands. A bucket of water is also a good thing to have near by in case the chiminea has to be snuffed out. It is crucial not to use water to extinguish the fire of a chiminea after it has cooled. Instead use water only when the fire has gone out or in the event that the chimney is in danger of bursting.
The draft created by a chiminea can carry sparks upward through the stack, so it is important to protect 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 a lot of heat, and the area around them can become extremely hot, which is why you should place a low wall around the chiminea in order to remind people that getting too close could result in painful burns.
Don't burn your chiminea when it's weather conditions that are windy or rainy. The sparks can cause a chimney to catch fire, which could cause damage to your home. Before using a chiminea, make sure to 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, making sure there aren't any objects that could ignite nearby. It is also important to clean the interior of your fireplace after each use. This will help prevent the accumulation of ash, which can cause smoke inhalation or even a sooty outdoor.
Maintenance
Clay chimineas need some attention, even when they are used to build outdoor fires. To ensure their longevity, they must be treated exactly the same way as all clay products. It is essential to not allow them to get too hot and allow them to cool between uses. Furthermore they should be frequently sealed and sanded to prevent the paint from being damaged by moisture.
The first step in keeping your chiminea in top condition is to clear the ashes from it after each use, but only once it has completely cooled down. It will be warm, even if it appears to have cooled, so use a small rake and a brush to remove the ash. After you have cleaned the ash away and cleared of it in a careful manner, the next step is to fill the bottom with gravel or sand. If you do not fill it the chiminea could crack. This is due to the fact that clay absorbs water and can crack if it becomes too dry.
Some sources suggest sealing the outside of the chiminea by using an acrylic waterproofing agent, similar to those used to seal tiles. This will help keep moisture from seeping into the chiminea and damaging it. When you are using the chiminea for a long period of time, it is recommended to sand and reseal the chiminea every 6-8 weeks.
Chimineas should only be burnt on bare, fire-safe surfaces. They should never be placed on wood decking or on any other type of overhead cover. Only using hardwood that is well-seasoned will lower big chiminea the amount of sparks and stop the clay from cracking.
Because a chiminea's body is made of clay, it won't last forever, although it is difficult to break one unless you beat it with an Hammer or drop it. However, cracks can develop for a variety of reasons, including poor burning and a lack of maintenance. They are also prone to rust, and should be covered when not in use. This will keep rain and snow from corroding metal parts.