15 Things You Didn't Know About Chiminea Fire Pit
Clay Chiminea Fire Pit
Clay chimineas are a fire risk unless they're placed on the stand made of metal (hopefully included) that came with them. They also heat up very high and can burn little hands on accident in the event that children are too close.
Large chimineas are heavy and difficult to move. They also can crack or break if they are dropped or tipped.
Rustic Design
A chiminea fire pit adds an element of rustic design to your backyard, creating a cozy setting for outdoor conversation and relaxation. Some come in a variety styles that complement your garden or patio. They feature a broad base that tapers into the form of a fireplace. Although more cumbersome than some fire pit designs the chiminea is very easy to move around your backyard and works well in small areas.
Like fire pits, chimineas can be available in many different materials like clay and terracotta for a more Mexican-style look, as well as cast iron or steel. They can be painted to add an aesthetic appeal and are often adorned with handcrafted detailing. Clay and terracotta chimineas are less sturdy than metal chimineas and can crack or break when exposed to extreme temperatures and rough handling. However, they don't get hot as quickly as chimineas made of metal and may be more suitable for homes with pets or children.
Because of their structure they are more secure than fire pits as they are contained. They also have an elongated chimney that directs smoke upwards, which will minimize the amount of smoke you or your neighbors are exposed to. They are therefore a good option for homeowners who live in areas where open-flame fireplaces are prohibited or who want to stay clear of the smell of smoke from a flame that is open.
Chimineas are best used with wood, but they can also be used with liquid propane or gas. Some models are designed to cook. It is best not to use a chiminea in a windy conditions, as powerful winds can blow smoke or embers into the air. It is recommended that you construct a chiminea in an area that is fire-proof, also known as a patio hearth which is a three-by-four-foot square covered with pavers or another fireproof material.
It is best to use firewood that is dry-fired and stacked in a uniform manner in the process of building a chiminea. Avoid large logs and oversized branches since they could easily break or split when handled. It is also important to keep a safe distance of at least 10 feet from any structure, including your shed or house. You should also be careful not to raise your chiminea by its chimney or the stack because this could cause it to break. When not in use it is a good idea to cover your chiminea using an open fire pit.
Versatility
A chiminea is more versatile than one made of metal because it can be filled with a variety of fuels. It can be filled with wood but it can also be filled with propane gas or natural gas. It can be used with various types of briquettes. However it is recommended to use dried firewood that has been kiln-baked that is simple to ignite and burns rapidly. This will help reduce the amount of pollution your neighbors and your garden are exposed to from the smoke.
It also has a chimney that funnels the smoke up and away from the area where people are sitting, which will help keep your outdoor space tidy and pleasant. You can also add accessories like a log grate, or a fire poker to help you to maintain the fire. If you're worried about the amount of smoke a chiminea releases it is a good idea to try out a model with an SS firebox to limit the amount of smoke released.
Chimineas can be utilized in a variety of locations and in smaller backyards, and even on a balcony, with careful installation. They typically distribute their heat over a larger area than a fire pit, therefore it is important to create a patio hearth or some other type of fire-safe area that you can construct the chiminea. It should be a small square, circular or circular area which is covered with pavers and situated at least a safe distance from other structures or other materials.
Clay chimineas can last for a long time when they are taken care of and used. Place them on a stone, concrete or patio hearth. Cover the fire pad with an sand layer and lava stones. This will prevent them from cracking because of heat stress. Don't pour water on a hot clay chimney, as it will cause the chiminea to crack or break.
If you're looking for a chiminea which is within your budget you can find a few models that are very affordable. If you want an old-fashioned, classic style, you'll have to pay a little more for chimineas made by hand with high-end ceramic.
Safety
If you decide to purchase clay models, make sure it is placed in a permanent location. Moving it around can cause damage to the clay and cracks. If garden chiminea don't have enough space for an enduring chiminea A chiminea cover can shield it from rain damage and also prevent dirt and leaves from building up. This could create a fire risk.
Chimineas are very heavy. If you plan to use it as a garden ornament or put it in a large outdoor space, make sure that it is placed securely and that there is enough clearance around it to ensure its safe operation. You could consider a patio made of stones or bricks to protect your chiminea from wind damage.
Before you use your chiminea the first time, fill it with sand to approximately halfway. This will keep the clay cool and stop the fire from touching any of the sides. Once 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. Once the fire has started to smolder, you can add a few logs or larger pieces of wood.
After you've made 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 help protect the clay and prevent moisture damage to the paint finish.
Sealer must be applied on a regular basis as the sealer will wear out over time with regular use. You can purchase an appropriate clay sealer from a hardware or garden store, or alternatively you can apply a high temperature silicone sealant, such as Future acrylic floor finish, which is ideal for use on metal and ceramic items that are exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is recommended to only burn hardwood or split softwood wood logs that have been seasoned prior to using your chiminea. Keep the chiminea clear from any eaves or roofs which could catch the fire. Never use water to extinguish your chiminea since it could crack terracotta and clay.
Maintenance
Chimineas have a rustic look that draws people to them, but they require special care to keep them in good condition. A few preventative measures will ensure that your terracotta chiminea lasts for many years.
Use a chiminea only on an area that is fire-safe. Place it on a concrete patio, brick outdoor fire pit or solid wood deck. Make sure there is nothing that can catch on fire above it like a wooden eave or pergola.
Keep the chiminea clean at all times, but especially during the initial fires. This allows the clay "season" to be more resistant to heat. Start your first fire with just a couple pieces of kindling and let them burn out completely. Then, you can build larger fires, adding more kindling each time. It is best to avoid using wood with a lot of bark, which can generate a lot of sparks that are hot. Choose seasoned wood instead because it is likely to spark less.
When the chiminea has been seasoned and ready to use and filled three-quarters of the way full with sand. Ensure that it does not touch the clay. Make sure to use a fire starter that does not contain lighter fluid, or any other products that enhance the flame. After the sand has been covered by the clay, light a small fire with only paper and some kindling. Make the fire bigger each time, but be sure it does not come into contact with the clay or any other flammable material.
A chiminea made of clay will last longer if it's regularly cleaned. This reduces the risk of structural damage from the accumulation of ash and soot. Ash that is not burned could pose a fire risk.
Once or twice a yearly, you should seal the clay chiminea. This seal protects the clay chiminea from elements, and stops moisture from entering the clay.