Clay Chiminea Fire Pit

Clay chimineas can be a fire hazard unless it is placed on the stand made of steel that (hopefully) came with it. They can also heat up very quickly and cause burns to small hands if children get too close.

Large chimineas are hefty and difficult to move. They can also break or crack when dropped or tipped.

Rustic Design

A chiminea firepit adds a rustic element to your backyard and creates an inviting setting for outdoor conversations. Some come in a variety styles that will complement your garden or patio. They have a large base that tapers into the form of a fireplace. Although they're heavier than fire pit designs the chiminea is very easy to move around your yard and fits well in smaller spaces.

Similar to fire pits, chimineas are available in various materials, including clay and terracotta for an authentic Mexican look, as well as steel or cast iron. They can be painted to provide a decorative accent and often feature handcrafted detailing. The chimineas made of clay and terracotta are less durable than metal and may break or crack if exposed to extreme temperatures and rough handling. They don't heat up as fast as metal ones and are therefore ideal for homes with children or pets.

Because of their design they are more secure than fire pits as they are confined. Chimines direct smoke upwards to lessen the amount of smoke you or your neighbors experience. As a result, they are an ideal option for homeowners living in areas that have restrictions on open-flame fires, or who prefer to stay clear of the smell of smoke emitted by an open flame.

Chimineas are the best choice for wood burning, but can be used with liquid or gas propane. Some models are even designed to cook. You should never use a chiminea in a windy conditions, since strong gusts could blow smoke or embers through the air. It is recommended that you build the chiminea on a patio hearth. This is a three-by-four foot space that is covered in pavers or other fireproof materials.

When building a chiminea, you should use kiln-dried firewood that is laid out in a uniform way. Avoid large and bulky logs as well as branches because they can easily split or break when handled. It is also recommended to keep a distance of 10 feet or more from any structure like your shed or home. It is also important to be cautious not to raise your chiminea over its chimney or stack as this can cause it to crack. When not in use it is a good idea to cover your chiminea with an open fire pit.

Versatility

A indoor chiminea fire pit can be more adaptable than a steel one because it can be used with a variety of fuels. It can be filled up with propane gas or wood. It can be used with various types of brquettes. However it is recommended to use kiln dried firewood that is simple to ignite and quickly burns. This will lessen the amount of pollution your garden and neighbors experience because of smoke.

It also includes a chimney to funnel the smoke up and away from the area where people are seated, which helps keep your outdoor chiminea fireplace space clean and pleasant. You can also include accessories such as log grates or a fire poker to help tend the fire. If you're concerned about the amount of smoke a chiminea emits it's a good idea to look for a model with stainless steel firebox.

Chimineas work well in any type of location. They can be set in small backyards, or on balconies with care. Chimineas are more robust than fire pits and are able to heat a larger area. Therefore, it is essential to construct a hearth for your patio, or other fire-safe area, on which to place the chiminea. It should be a small circular or square area that is covered with pavers and situated at a safe distance away from other flammable materials or structures.

Clay chimineas will last for many years provided they are properly cared for and used. Place them on a concrete, stone or hearth for a patio. Cover the fire pit with a layer of sand or lava stones. This will stop cracking from the heat stress. Don't pour water over a hot clay chiminea since this could cause it to crack or break.

There are many models that are reasonably priced when you're searching for a chiminea that will fit your budget. If you're looking for a traditional, classic look you'll need to spend slightly more for chimineas that are handmade with high-end ceramic.

Safety

If you opt for clay models, it should really find its permanent home straight away since moving it frequently could cause damage to the delicate clay and cause cracks. If you don't have the space to permanently locate your chiminea, a good quality chiminea outdoor fireplace cover is a great option to protect it from rain damage and to prevent the accumulation of leaves and dirt that could block air flow and create a fire risk.

Chimineas are heavy. If you are planning to use it as a garden ornament or to place it in a large outdoor space be sure it is secured and that there is sufficient space around it to ensure its safe operation. You could consider a patio made of stones or bricks to protect the chiminea against wind damage.

Before using your chiminea the first time, you should fill it with sand to about halfway. This will keep the fire from touching the sides of the stack, and will aid in keeping the clay cool. After the sand has dried you can ignite some newspaper and lighter. Make sure that you keep it away from the sides. Once the fire has started to smolder, you can add a few logs or larger pieces of wood.

Once you have made a few small flames in your new chiminea it's a good idea apply a sealer to the outside of the clay. This will protect the clay finish and prevent moisture damage.

The sealer needs to be applied periodically, as the initial sealer will wear away over time. You can buy a clay sealer at the hardware or garden store. Alternately, you could apply a high-temperature silicone sealant such as Future Acrylic Floor Finish, that is perfect for ceramic and metal surfaces that are exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is best to burn only softwood or hardwood logs that are seasoned when using your chiminea. Keep the chiminea clear from any eaves or roofs that could catch on fire. Do not use water to extinguish your chiminea as it can break terracotta as well as clay.

Maintenance

Chimineas are a favorite due to their rustic charm, but they require special care to keep them in good condition. A few preventative measures can ensure that your terra-cotta chiminea will last for many years.

Always ensure that you use a safe, fire-proof surface when using your chiminea outdoor fireplace. Place it on a brick or concrete patio, fire pit for outdoor use or a solid wooden deck. Make sure there's nothing that can catch on the fire like pergolas or eaves made of wood.

It is also recommended to keep the chiminea clean, particularly during the initial fires. This will allow the clay to "season" and become more heat resistant. Start your first fire with a few pieces of kindling, and be sure to let them burn out completely. You can build larger fires by adding more of the kindling. It is best to avoid using wood that is full of bark, as it can cause a lot of sparks. Instead, opt for mature wood, which tends to create less sparks.

When the chiminea has been seasoned and ready to use then fill it three-quarters of the way full with sand. Ensure that it doesn't touch the clay. Use a fire starter without lighter fluid or other enhancing products. Once the sand is completely covered by the clay, light a small fire with only paper and some kindling. Make the fire a little bigger each time, but be certain that it does not touch the clay or any other fire-proof material.

Regular cleaning is vital to prolong the life of a chiminea made of clay. This decreases the risk of structural damage caused by accumulated soot and ash. It also helps prevent an accident that could cause fire due to unburnt ash that could quickly ignite.

Every year, or at least once, you should seal the clay chiminea near me. This protects it from the elements and keeps moisture from getting into the clay, which could make it softer.