Clay Chiminea Fire Pit
Clay chimineas can be a fire risk unless they're placed on the metal stand (hopefully included) that came with them. Also, they heat up to a very high temperature and could burn little hands on accident when children play too close to.
Large chimineas weigh a lot and are difficult to move. They can also crack or break if they are dropped or tipped.
Rustic Design
Chiminea fire pits add a distinct rustic look to your backyard, creating an inviting space for outdoor conversation and relaxation. There are a variety of styles that match your garden or patio decor. They have a large base which tapers into a fireplace. A chiminea, while more heavy than other fire pit designs and is difficult to move around your backyard, is able to squeeze into smaller spaces.
Similar to fire pits, chimineas are available in many different materials like clay and terracotta for a more Mexican-style look, as well as steel or cast iron. They can be painted to provide an aesthetic appeal and often feature hand-crafted details. Chimineas made of clay and terracotta are less robust than metal chimineas and can crack or break when exposed to high temperatures and rough handling. However, they do not heat up as fast as chimineas made of metal and may be more suitable for homes with pets or children.
Because of their structure Chimineas are more secure than fire pits since they are contained. They also have a chimney that funnels smoke upwards, which can reduce the amount of smoke you or your neighbors are exposed to. They are therefore a great option for homeowners who live in areas where open flame fires are prohibited or who want to stay clear of the smell of smoke from an open flame.
Chimineas work best when used with wood, however they can also be used with liquid propane or gas. Some models are also designed for cooking. When using a chiminea you should always avoid turbulent conditions as strong winds can blow embers and smoke into the air. It is recommended that you build a chiminea on a patio hearth. This is an area that measures three by four feet. space that is covered in pavers or fireproof material.
When making a chiminea you should choose to use kiln dried firewood that is placed in a consistent manner. Avoid large branches and logs, as they can easily break or split if handled. It is also crucial to keep an appropriate distance of at least 10 feet from any structure, such as your shed or home. It is important to never lift your chiminea by using its chimney or stack, since this could cause it to crack. When it's not in use, it is a good idea to cover your chiminea using an open fire pit.
Versatility
Chiminea fire pits are more versatile than a metal one, as it can be used with a variety of fuels. It can be filled with wood but it can also be used with propane gas or even natural gas. It can be used with a variety of brquettes, but it's recommended to use kiln dried firewood that is simple to light and burns quickly without releasing a lot of smoke. This will minimize the amount of pollution that your backyard and neighbors suffer due to smoke.
It also comes with an integrated chimney that funnels smoke away from those who are sitting on it, helping to keep your outdoor area clean and pleasant. You can also add accessories such as an edging for logs or a fire poker to help maintain the fire. If you are concerned about how much smoke a chiminea can release it is worth checking out a model that uses a stainless steel firebox to regulate the amount of smoke that is released.
Chimineas are suitable for all kinds of places. They can be placed in small backyards or on balconies with careful consideration. Chimineas are more powerful than fire pits and are able to heat a larger area. It is therefore important to construct a hearth for your patio or any other area that is fire-safe, on which to place the Chiminea. It should be small square, circular or circular area that is covered in pavers and located at least a safe distance from any other flammable structures or other materials.
Clay chimineas will last for a long time if they are taken care of and used. Place them on a concrete, stone or hearth for a patio. Cover the fire place with a layer of sand or lava stones. This will prevent them from cracking because of heat stress. Do not pour water onto the chimney of a hot clay, as it will cause the chimney to crack or break.
You can find several models that are reasonably priced if you're looking for a chiminea that fits your budget. If you're looking for the classic, traditional style you'll have to spend more for a hand-crafted model that is constructed of high-quality clay.
Safety
If you opt for clay models, it should really find its permanent home as soon as possible, as moving it regularly could damage the clay and cause cracks. If you don't have the space to keep your chiminea, a good quality cover for your chiminea is a great option to protect it from damage from rain and stop the accumulation of leaves and dirt that could block air flow and cause fire hazards.
Chimineas are hefty. If you intend to use them as garden ornaments or place it in the outdoors be sure it is secured and that there is sufficient clearance around it to ensure its safe operation. Consider a patio constructed of bricks or stones to shield the chiminea from wind damage.
Fill the chiminea with sand until it's about half full. This will keep the fire from touching the sides of the stack and will help keep the clay cool. After the sand has dried it is possible to ignite some newspaper and lighter. Make sure to keep it away from the sides. Once the fire is burning you can add logs or larger wood pieces.
After you've started a few small fires in your new chiminea it's a good idea to apply a sealer to the exterior of the clay. This will help protect the finish of the clay and stop moisture damage.
Sealer should be applied regularly because chiminea outdoor fireplace the sealer will wear out with regular use. You can buy an appropriate clay sealer from a hardware or garden retailer, or you can apply a high temperature silicone sealant such as Future acrylic floor finish, which is ideal for use on metal and ceramic objects that are exposed to extreme heat.
When using your chiminea it is best to only burn hardwood or split softwood logs that are seasoned. Also, always make sure the chiminea is not situated from eaves and any kind of roof that might catch fire and never put out a chiminea using water, since this could cause cracks in clay and terracotta.
Maintenance
Chimineas have a rustic appeal that draws people towards them, but they require special care to keep them in good condition. A few preventative steps will ensure that your terra-cotta chiminea will last for a long time.
Make sure to use a chiminea on the surface that is safe for fire. Place it on an outdoor patio made of concrete, brick outdoor fire pit, or a solid wood deck. It is also important to ensure that there's nothing in front of it that could catch fire, for example a wooden pergola or eaves of the house.
It is also recommended to keep the chiminea clean, especially during the first few fires. This allows the clay "season" to become more heat resistant. Start the first few fires with a few pieces of kindling and let them burn completely. You can build up larger fires by adding more of the kindling. It is best to avoid using wood that is full of bark, which could cause a lot of sparks that are hot. Instead, opt for mature wood, which is more likely to produce less sparking.
Fill the chiminea to three quarters full of sand once it is ready for use. Make sure that it does not touch any clay. Use a fire starter that does not contain lighter fluid, or any other products to enhance the flame. Once the sand is completely covered, light a small fire with just paper and kindling. The fire should get slightly larger each time. Be careful not to let it touch the clay or other flammable materials.
Regular cleaning is essential to the longevity of a chiminea made of clay. This helps reduce the chance of structural damage due to accumulation of soot and ash. It also helps in preventing an accident that could cause fire due to unburnt ash which can suddenly ignite.
Once or twice per year it is recommended to seal the clay chiminea. The seal shields the clay chiminea against the elements, and prevents moisture from leaking into the clay.