The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea

The most popular type of chiminea is made of clay. Think of terracotta pots or red pottery. Clay is extremely durable and hard, but it is also susceptible to cracking if not handled properly.

Clay is extremely absorbent, which is why it has to be protected by sand and gravel at the bottom of a chiminea along with some kindling or logs. This stops the clay from becoming too hot and seals any hairline cracks.

Materials

The traditional clay chimineas (also called pot-bellied ovens) have a chimney which directs smoke upwards. These chimineas are coated with an exterior glaze that protects them from cracking and weathering caused by sudden temperature fluctuations. However, they are still vulnerable to sun and rain. This is why it is important to keep them covered when not in use, and to ensure that no water puddles form within the clay.

Most chimineas, however, are made from clay from terracotta. Other materials like steel and cast iron chiminea iron can be used as well. Cast iron and aluminum offer an extremely durable option that requires less maintenance. Terracotta has a classic Mexican style. Some manufacturers offer modern designs that combine the beauty and durability of a chiminea made of clay.

Many people opt to match their chimineas with evergreens or flowering plants. This gives a natural look that complements the natural beauty of their backyard space. It is important to carefully choose the right plant combinations, however, because a Chiminea needs to be placed in a place free of structures that could catch fire. It is also essential to ensure that the chiminea is placed on a fire-safe surface, such as brick, concrete or stone patios.

Chiminesas can be created by hand using high-fired, unglazed clay. The person who creates the clay is referred to as a potter, and they can create the chiminea on a potter's wheel or with a plaster mould. In either case, the clay is kneaded and smoothed before being allowed to dry. Some newer clay chimineas are pre-grogged with a substance that can help them resist thermal stresses that are prone to cracking traditional earthenware.

Other chimineas can be made in metal moulds which allow them to be made in various styles and shapes to suit 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 also are cheaper than other types and come in gas-burning versions to provide greater versatility.

Styles

A chiminea is a fireplace that can be decorated in a variety styles and materials. Terracotta chimineas offer the classic design that has been around for centuries and metal alternatives are more durable and able to be able to withstand high temperatures. A lot of chimineas come with decorative patterns and designs to enhance the patio furniture. A rusty finish, for example can give your chiminea a vintage look especially if you match it with iron or wood patio furniture.

Chimineas are often designed to be freestanding, but they may also be mounted on a stone, brick, or concrete patio. Whatever you decide to use to place your chiminea make sure it is protected from the wind and away from any plants or structures that are flammable. It is important to remember that chimineas emit smoke as well as soot, which can affect the quality of the air in the surrounding area.

Certain chimineas feature a chimney that opens at the bottom of the structure, while others are squat and point upwards. Both designs are available with or without a wide opening to allow for the addition of firewood. The chimneys on squat models are also designed to be shaped in order to create a more dramatic look and add visual appeal.

You can also include decorative elements on the exterior of your chiminea, like wrought iron marble, or granite. Consider a copper or ceramic chiminea top to add a bit of flair. The glossy shimmer of these finishes can help to reflect light from 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 also beautify it. Use a natural polishing agent like beeswax, or olive oil, to buff the surface and create a rich glow. Apply a thin coating and rub gently, then rinse and dry the chiminea for a radiant result.

Chimineas are an enormous undertaking however, with the proper care and attention your outdoor chiminea will look fashionable for many years. With the help of effective decorating and maintenance techniques, you can enjoy your chiminea in the backyard throughout the winter months.

Safety

Although chimineas are popular however they could pose an injury risk if correctly used. Chimineas made from big clay chiminea are prone to cracking, especially those that aren't coated with. They also pose an ignition source if they are too close to flammable objects like your furniture, your home and the garden. It is best to use your chiminea outdoors and in a space that is surrounded by fire-proof material or fenced.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy you and use it to extinguish small fires, or hot coals, that may occur when you are tending to your flame. You can also use a long lighter for lighting your fire, and then move the coals using tongs instead of your hands. A bucket of water is useful to have nearby in case the chiminea needs to be put out. It is not recommended to use water to smother the fire of a chiminea after it has been cooled. Instead, add water only when the fire has stopped or when the chimney is at risk of overflowing.

A simple spark arrestor, made from chicken wire, and placed around the top smokestack, can protect your property as well as your neighbors from accidental burns. Chimineas can also become extremely hot, and the surrounding area. You should put up an uninspiring wall to warn people not to get close enough to.

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. Before you use a chiminea, make sure to check with your local fire department to ensure there are no burn bans in effect. Before adding firewood to the chiminea, make sure you clear the area surrounding it. This will ensure that there aren't any burning materials in the vicinity. It is also an excellent idea to clean the inside of your chiminea after each use to avoid ash accumulation that could lead to smoke inhalation and a sooty exterior.

Maintenance

Clay chimineas need some attention, even when they are used to build outdoor fires. Like all things made from clay, they need to be handled with an amount of continuous attention to ensure they have the longest life. It is important to not allow them to become too hot and to allow them to cool down between use. They must also be sanded frequently and sealed to stop the paint from becoming damaged.

It is essential to clean the ashes after every use of your chiminea, however, only after it has completely cooled. It will still be warm, even though it appears to be cooling, so use an ice breaker and a brush to clear away the ash. After you have carefully swept out the ash and cleared away 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 the chiminea could crack. The clay absorbs moisture, and could crack if it is too dry.

Some sources recommend treating the exterior of a chiminea with an acrylic waterproofing solution, similar to the ones used to seal tiles. This will prevent moisture from seeping into the chiminea, and damaging it. During periods of heavy use it is recommended that you sand and reseal the chiminea every 6-8 weeks.

Chimineas should only be burned on clean, safe surfaces and they should never be used on decking made of wood or on any other kind of overhead covering. The use of only well-seasoned hardwood will also lessen the number of sparks that are produced and prevent cracking the clay.

A chiminea made from clay will not last for a long time. However, it is difficult to break unless you smash it with a heavy Hammer. Cracks can develop for a variety of reasons, including poor combustion or the lack of proper maintenance. They are also susceptible to rust and need to be covered at least when not in use. This will stop rain and snow from corroding the metal parts.