The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea
Clay is the most commonly used material used to make chimineas. Think of terracotta ware or red pottery. Clay is very strong and hard, but it can crack when handled improperly.
Clay is highly absorbent, so it needs to be protected by sand and gravel at the bottom of a chiminea along with some kindling or logs. This protects the clay from burning too hot and closes hairline cracks.
Materials
The chimineas made of clay (also known as pot-bellied or ovens) include a chimney that emits smoke upwards. These chimneys are typically glazed to guard against cracking and weathering due to sudden temperature changes. However, they are still vulnerable to rain and sun. Therefore, it is important to cover them when not in use, and to stop water puddles from forming within the clay.
The majority of chimineas are created out of terracotta clay, but other materials such as cast iron and steel are also readily available. Cast iron and aluminum offer a long-lasting option that requires less maintenance. Terracotta has a classic Mexican look. Some manufacturers offer modern styles which combine the beauty and durability of a clay-based chiminea.
Many people prefer to pair their chiminea with flowering plants or evergreens. This gives an organic look that enhances the ambience of their backyard space. It is essential to select plants that go together, as a chiminea needs to be placed in a space that is free of structures that can catch fire. It is important to ensure that the chiminea sits in a safe area for fire, like brick, concrete or stone patio.
Chiminesas are created by hand using high-fired unglazed clay. The potter is the person who molds the clay. They can make use of the mold of a plaster or wheel of a potter. In either case, the clay is kneaded prior allowed to dry. Some of the newer clay chimineas have been pre-grogged. This is a compound which can help to resist thermal stress that is prone to cracking earthenware.
Other chimineas can be made using metal moulds, which give them different styles and shapes to suit any backyard. Cast iron chimineas are heavier than clay models, however they stand up better to the elements and aren't as susceptible to cracking and breaking because of sudden temperature changes like clay. They are less expensive than other types of chimineas, too and are available in gas-burning models, too to provide additional versatility.
Styles
Chimineas are fireplaces that can be decorated in various styles and materials. Terracotta chimineas feature the classic look that has been around for centuries, while metal chimineas are stronger and can withstand high temperatures. Many chimineas come with decorative patterns and designs that are a perfect match for the surrounding furniture for the patio. A rustic patina finish, for example, can give a chiminea an old-fashioned style, especially when coupled with iron and wood patio furniture.
Chimineas can be freestanding or hung on a patio that is made of stone, brick or concrete. No matter where you decide to place your chiminea, be sure it is safe from the elements and from any flammable structures or plants. It is important to remember that chimineas emit smoke and soot, which can affect the quality of air in the area around it.
Some chimineas have chimneys that open at the lower part of the structure, while others are squat and point upwards. Both models come with or without a wide opening to allow for the addition of firewood. The chimneys on squat models are able to be formed to create an impressive 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. To add a touch of flair, you might consider an aluminum or copper top. These finishes reflect light and increase the look of your chiminea.
A regular chiminea-polish is another method to shield your outdoor fire pit from harm and enhance it. Use beeswax, olive oil or other natural products to polish the surface to give it a rich, glowing appearance. Apply a thin layer and rub gently. Rinse and dry your chiminea to create a beautiful look.
Chimineas require a lot of maintenance, but with the right care and attention, your imaginative outdoor chiminea can remain stylish for a long time. By implementing effective decorating and maintenance techniques, you can enjoy your backyard chiminea all through the colder months.
Safety
Despite their popularity Chimineas can be risky if they're not moved here handled correctly. Chimineas made of clay are susceptible to cracking, particularly ones that aren't coated with. They also pose a fire risk when placed too close to other flammable materials like your outdoor furniture, your home and the garden surrounding it. It is best to use a chiminea outdoors and in an area that is secured or surrounded by fire-safe materials.
It is recommended to keep a fire extinguisher in your home and use it when needed to put out any small fires or hot coals that arise when you are attempting to tend the flame. It is also recommended to make use of a long lighter to light your fire and move coals with tongs instead of using your hands. It is also a good idea to keep an empty bucket of water on hand in case you need to remove the chiminea. It is not recommended to use water to quench the chiminea's fire after it has cooled. Instead use water only when the fire has completely stopped or if the chimney is in danger of overflowing.
A simple spark stopper, made from chicken wire and positioned around the top smokestack, will protect your home and your neighbors against accidental burns. Chimineas also generate lots of heat and the area around them can become extremely hot, so you should place a low wall around the chiminea in order to remind people that getting too close to it could result in painful burns.
Do not burn your chiminea in weather conditions that are windy or rainy. The sparks can cause a chimney to catch on fire, which could cause damage to your home. Inquire with your local fire department to see if there burn bans in place before using a chiminea. Before you add firewood to the chiminea, it is recommended to clean the area around it. This will ensure that there aren't any materials that could ignite within the vicinity. Also, you should clean the interior of your fireplace after each use. This will help prevent ash accumulation that can lead smoke inhalation, or a sooty outdoor.
Maintenance
Despite the fact that they can be used for outdoor fires clay chimineas aren't easy to maintain devices. Like everything made of clay, they need to be handled with an amount of continuous care to guarantee their longest possible lifespan. This means not making them too hot and taking the time to allow them to cool down between each use. Furthermore they should be regularly sanded and sealed to keep the paint from being damaged by moisture.
It is crucial to clear the ashes after each use of your chiminea however, only after it has completely cool. It will be warm even though it appears to be cooling, so use the smallest rake and brush to remove the ash. After you have carefully swept out the ash and removed the debris, the next step will be to fill the bottom of the chiminea either gravel or sand. If you don't do this the chiminea could crack. This is because the clay absorbs water and can crack if it becomes 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 can prevent moisture from getting into the chiminea and damaging it. It is recommended that the chiminea gets sanded and resealed every 6 to 8 weeks during times of heavy use.
Chimineas should only be employed on surfaces that are free of any other coverings or wood. The use of only well-seasoned hardwood can also decrease the number of sparks produced and help to avoid cracking the clay.
Because a chiminea's body is made out of clay, it is unlikely to last forever, however it is extremely difficult to break unless you smash it with the Hammer or drop it. However, cracks can form for a variety of reasons, like poor combustion and lack of maintenance. They are also susceptible to rust and need to be kept covered, at the very least, when not in use. This will keep the rain and snow off of it, ensuring that it doesn't start to corrode the metal parts of the chiminea.