Clay chiminea fire pit (visit the site)
Clay chimineas are dangers to fire if they're not placed on the stand made of metal (hopefully included) that came with them. Also, they heat up to a very high temperature and could cause burns to hands when children play too close to.
Large chimineas are heavy and difficult to move. They also crack easily and can break when dropped or tipped on top of.
Rustic Design
A chiminea fire pit adds a distinct rustic look to your backyard, creating an inviting space for outdoor conversations and relaxation. They feature a large base that tapers to a chimney, and are available in a variety of styles to fit with your patio or garden decor. While they are heavier than other fire pit designs, a chiminea is simple to move around your yard and works well in smaller spaces.
Chimineas are available in a broad selection of materials, such as clay, cast aluminium chiminea iron, and terracotta to give a mexican chimineas-style look. They can be painted as an attractive accent and usually feature hand-crafted details. Clay and terracotta are less robust than metal chimineas, and may crack or break when exposed to high temperature and rough handling. However, they don't heat up as fast 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 because they are confined. 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're a great choice for homeowners in areas where open flame fires are not permitted or for those who wish to avoid the smoke smell of a burning flame.
Chimineas are best used when cooked with wood, but they can also be used with liquid propane or gas. Some models are designed to cook. When using a chiminea you must be sure to keep it away from windy conditions since strong gusts could blow smoke and embers 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. area covered in pavers or fireproof material.
When you build a chiminea you should use kiln-dried firewood that is placed in a consistent manner. Avoid large and bulky logs as well as branches because they can 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. It is also important to be cautious not to raise your chiminea from its chimney or stack as this could cause it to break. It is also a good idea to cover your fireplace with a cover when it is not in use.
Versatility
A chiminea fire pit is more versatile than a metal one, as it can be used with many different fuels. It can be filled with propane gas or wood. You can use it with various briquettes, but it is best to stick to kiln-dried firewood that is ignite and burns quickly, without releasing a lot of smoke. This will reduce the amount pollution that your backyard and neighbors suffer because of smoke.
It also has an integrated chimney that funnels smoke away from the people sitting on it, assisting to keep your outdoor chiminea fireplace space neat and inviting. You can also include accessories such as a log grate or a fire poker to help you tend the fire. If you're worried about the amount of smoke a chiminea releases it is a good idea to try using a model that utilizes an stainless steel firebox to control the amount of smoke released.
Chimineas are suitable for any type of location. They can be placed in small backyards or on balconies with proper care. Chimineas are more powerful than fire pits and they can provide a greater heat source to a larger area. It is therefore essential to build a patio hearth, or other fire-safe area that can be used to install the Chiminea. It should be small rectangular or circular space which is covered with pavers and is located at least a safe distance from other flammable structures or materials.
Chimineas made of clay can last for years if they are properly maintained and use. Place them on a stone, concrete or patio hearth. Cover the fire place with an sand layer and lava stones. This will stop cracking from heat stress. Never pour water on a hot clay chimney, as it will cause the chimney to crack or break.
If you're seeking a chiminea that can be affordable you can find a couple of models that are affordable. However, if you are looking for the traditional, classic look you'll have to pay more for the hand-crafted model that is constructed from top-quality clay.
Safety
If you choose to purchase clay models be sure that it has a permanent place to live. Moving it around could cause damage to the clay and cracks. If you don't have the space for a permanent chiminea location the chiminea covers protect it from damage caused by rain and will also stop dirt and leaves from building up. This can lead to a fire risk.
Chimineas are quite heavy, so if intend to use it as a garden feature or to place it in a large outdoor space, make sure it is placed securely and has ample space around it to ensure secure operation. You could consider a patio made of bricks or stones to protect your chiminea from wind damage.
Before using your chiminea outdoor fireplace the first time, fill it up with sand to about halfway. This will prevent the fire from touching the sides of the stack and will help to keep the clay cool. Once the sand is dry, you can ignite some newspaper and lighter. Be 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.
After you've started some small fires in your new chiminea, it's a good idea apply a sealer on the outside of the clay. This will help keep the clay safe and prevent water damage to the paint finish.
The sealer should be reapplied regularly, since the initial sealer wears off when used regularly. You can purchase an aqueous sealer from an outdoor or hardware store. Alternatively, you can make use of a high-temperature sealant, such as Future Acrylic Floor Finish which is perfect for metal and ceramic surfaces that are exposed to extreme temperatures.
When using a chiminea, it is best to only burn hardwood or split softwood logs that have been seasoned. Make sure to keep the chiminea out from any roofs or eaves that could catch fire. Don't use water to extinguish your chiminea since it can crack terracotta and clay.
Maintenance
Chimineas are a favorite due to their rustic beauty, but they require special care to keep them in good condition. You can extend the lifespan of your terracotta chiminea by taking some preventative measures.
Always make sure you have a fire-proof surface when using your chiminea. This means placing it on a concrete patio or brick fire pit that is outdoors, on a solid wood deck, or on paving stones set in a small area. It is also important to ensure that there's nothing in front of it that could catch fire, like an eaves or pergola made of wood of your home.
You should also keep the chiminea clean, especially during the first few fires. This will allow the clay "season" to be more resistant to heat. Start the first few fires with a few pieces of kindling Be sure to allow them to burn completely. You can build larger fires by adding more kindling. It is recommended to avoid using wood with a lot of bark, as it can generate a lot of sparks. Instead, choose wood that is seasoned since it tends to spark less.
When the chiminea has been seasoned and ready to use, fill it three-quarters of the way with sand, making sure that it does not touch the clay. Make sure to use a fire starter that does not contain lighter fluid, or any other flame enhancing products. Once the sand is covered by the clay, light a small fire using only paper and a lighter. Make the fire bigger each time, but make sure it does not come into contact with the clay or any other materials that could ignite.
Regular cleaning is essential to prolong the life of a chiminea made of clay. This decreases the likelihood of structural damage caused by accumulation of soot or ash. It also helps in preventing a fire hazard caused by unburnt ash that could quickly ignite.
Once or twice a yearly it is recommended to seal the clay chiminea. This protects it from the elements and stops moisture from getting into the clay, which may cause it to become softer.