Clay Chiminea Fire Pit
Clay chimineas pose an ignition risk unless placed on the stand made of metal (hopefully included) that came with them. Also, they can heat up very high and can burn little hands on accident if children get too close.
Large chimineas are heavy and difficult to move. They are also susceptible to cracking and may break when dropped or tipped on top of.
Rustic Design
A chiminea fire pit adds a distinct rustic design element to your backyard, providing an inviting space for outdoor conversation and relaxation. They have a broad base that tapers into a chimney, and come in a variety styles to match your garden or patio decor. A chiminea, though heavier than other fire pit designs and difficult to move around your yard, is easy to squeeze into small areas.
Chimineas can be found in a vast range of materials, including clay, cast iron, and terracotta, for a Mexican-style appearance. They can be painted as an attractive accent and usually include hand-crafted elements. Chimineas made of clay and terracotta are less sturdy than metal and can break or crack when exposed to high temperatures and rough handling. However, they don't get hot as quickly as metal chimineas, and could be better suited to homes with children or pets.
Because of their structure Chimineas are more secure than fire pits since they are confined. Chimines direct smoke upwards to reduce the amount of smoke that you or your neighbors experience. They're a great option for homeowners who live in areas where open-flame fires are not permitted or want to avoid the smoke smell from a flame that is open.
Chimineas are the best choice for wood burning, but can also be used with liquid or gas propane. Some models can even be used for cooking. When using a chiminea, you should always avoid windy conditions since strong gusts could blow smoke and embers into the air. It is recommended that you build an chiminea in the hearth of a patio. This is a three-by-four foot area that is covered with pavers or fireproof material.
When you build a chiminea you should choose to use kiln dried firewood that is stacked in a uniform manner. Avoid large branches and logs, as they can easily break or split if handled. You should also keep at least 10 feet or more from any structure, such as your shed or home. Be careful not to raise your chiminea by its chimney or a stack since this can cause it to break. It is also an excellent idea to cover your chiminea with a firepit cover when it isn't being used.
Versatility
A chiminea fire pit is more versatile than a metal one since it can be used with various fuels. It can be filled with wood but it can also be used with propane gas or natural gas. It is possible to use it with different kinds of Briquettes. However it is recommended to use kiln dried firewood that is easy to ignite and burns quickly. This will minimize the amount of pollution that your garden and neighbors experience due to smoke.
It also has a chimney that funnels the smoke up and away from where people are sitting. This helps keep your outdoor space tidy and comfortable. You can also add other accessories such as a log grate or a fire poker to help you tend the fire. If you're concerned about the amount of smoke the chiminea produces it's a good idea to look for an option with stainless steel firebox.
Chimineas can be used in all kinds of places. They can be placed in small backyards, or on balconies with careful consideration. Chimineas are more robust than fire pits and can heat a larger area. It is therefore essential to construct a hearth for your patio or another fire-proof area, on which to place the Chiminea. It should be a small, circular or square area that is covered with pavers and situated at least a safe distance from any other flammable structures or other materials.
Clay chimineas can last many years with proper care and use. Place them on a concrete, stone or hearth for a patio. Cover the fire place with an sand layer and lava stones. This will prevent cracking from the heat stress. Do not pour water onto the chimney of a hot clay as it can cause the chiminea to crack or break.
If you are seeking a chiminea that will fit your budget there are a few models that are affordable. If you're looking for an old-fashioned, classic style you'll need to spend a little more for chimineas hand-crafted using high-end ceramic.
Safety
If you opt for clay models, it must find its permanent home as soon as possible because moving it often can damage the delicate clay and cause cracks. If you don't have enough space to permanently locate your chiminea, a good quality cover for chimineas is a fantastic option to protect it from rain damage and to prevent the accumulation of leaves and dirt which can block air flow and create a fire risk.
Chimineas can be quite heavy, so if are planning to use yours as an outdoor feature or place it in a large outdoor space, make sure it is securely placed and has ample space around it for safety. Also, consider a protective brick or stone patio to keep the chiminea from getting damaged by the winds.
Before using your chiminea for the first time, you should fill it with sand up to approximately halfway. This will keep the fire from touching the sides of the stack, and will help to keep the clay cool. When the sand is dry, you can light a small fire of newspaper and some kindling, making sure that it is kept away from the sides of the stack. When the fire is burning, you can add a few logs or larger pieces of wood.
After you've started a few small fires in your new chiminea, it's a good idea to apply a sealer on the exterior of the clay. This will protect the clay and prevent damage from moisture to the paint finish.
Sealer should be applied periodically because the sealer will wear out over time with regular use. You can buy a suitable clay sealer from a hardware or garden store, or you can use an extremely high temperature silicone sealant such as Future acrylic floor finish that is ideal for use on metal and ceramic items that are exposed to extreme temperatures.
When using your chiminea, it is best to only burn hardwood or split softwood logs that are seasoned. Always keep the chiminea away from any roofs or eaves that could catch fire. Don't use water to extinguish your chiminea since it could crack terracotta and clay.
Maintenance
Chimineas have a rustic look that draws people towards them, but they require special care to keep them in good condition. You can extend the life of your terracotta chiminea by taking a few preventative steps.
Make sure to use a chiminea on a surface that is fire-safe. This means putting it on a concrete patio or brick fire pit that is outdoors, on an unfinished wood deck or on paving stones placed in a small area. It is also important to ensure that there is nothing over it that could catch fire, like recommended a wooden pergola or eaves of your home.
Keep the chiminea spotless all the time, but especially during the initial fires. This lets the clay "season" and becomes more heat resistant. Start your fires with just handfuls of kindling and let them burn for a long time. You can then slowly build larger fires and add more kindling each time. It's best to avoid adding wood that has a lot of bark, which could produce a large number of sparks that are hot. Instead, choose wood that is seasoned because it is likely to be less sparky.
After the chiminea is dried and ready to use and filled three-quarters of the way with sand. Ensure that it does not touch the clay. Make use of a fire-starter that does not contain lighter fluid or other flame-enhancing products. Once the sand has been covered, begin small-scale fires using paper and a kindling. Make the fire a little larger each time, but be certain that it does not touch the clay or any other fire-proof material.
Regular cleaning is crucial to the longevity of a clay chiminea. This reduces the chance of structural damage caused by accumulated soot or ash. It also helps in preventing the risk of fire from unburnt ash that can quickly spark.
Every year, or at least once, you should seal the clay chiminea. This seal protects the clay chiminea from the elements, and stops moisture from entering the clay.