How to Build a Big Clay Chiminea Clay potters are able throw huge cylinders with incredible skill. For the majority of us the chiminea made of clay is going to need to find its permanent home as soon as possible and moving it could damage the clay. Find an area that has an open, fire-safe area and lay down a layer of children's play sand. Clay chimineas may be damaged when there are sudden fluctuations of temperature or moisture. Location A large clay chiminea can be a great way to warm your patio or garden. These large and long pieces of fire art look similar to chimneys, and are easy to light and keep the flames protected from the wind. They come with an open chimney that directs smoke to the air, meaning they don't produce excessive heat and are more secure than regular outdoor fireplaces. You can cook food inside them if you'd like however, it is best to use a separate grate and pan for this. The heaters are available in a variety of designs and materials. You can choose from clay and terracotta, but they can also be found in cast iron or steel. Cast iron can withstand higher temperatures, which makes it a better option for cooking with them. A metal chiminea can be moved around more quickly than clay or terracotta. The best spot to place your chiminea in is an open, clean space where the chimney can be vented properly. Also, ensure that there are no trees or other items that could ignite nearby. You can also put your Chiminea on the patio of a stone or brick however, you'll need to ensure that it doesn't rest directly on pavers, since this could cause them to crack and break. Fill the bottom of your fireplace with sand. This will help to prevent it from getting too hot and also prevent any papers or kindling from falling into. Keep the ashes and sand inside the chiminea and wash the chimney each week to avoid ash buildup. If you're not going to use your chiminea for some time, be sure to keep it in a safe place and cover it up with a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements. Consider placing your large clay chimney on a raised platform to ensure that the chimney is kept away from your home or other structures in your yard. It's also a good idea to keep it 10 to 20 feet away from your home, as it can be quite hot when you use it and sparks could fly out of the chimney. Size The size of your chiminea is contingent on the area you'll be placing it. If you intend to put a clay chiminea in a large space, it is best to choose one that can accommodate multiple people and provides them with plenty of heat. If you have a limited space to put the chiminea made of clay it is best to choose a model that is smaller and can hold a few people comfortably. It will also provide enough heat to allow them to all sit comfortably. The clay chimineas are typically made of terracotta clay, however, they are also available in cast iron and other materials. Clay models tend to be more prone to damage than their metal counterparts, although proper use and maintenance will ensure they last longer. Both types of chimineas need to be placed on flat, stable surfaces to prevent them from falling over and causing damage to decks or other outdoor furnishings. Set your clay chiminea upon an inert base, like sand. This will shield your decking and flooring from burns and scorches. Fill the clay chiminea's bottom with sand or volcanic rock. This will stop the sand and rock from burning or becoming too hot to touch. It also helps reduce the stress on the clay material in the first few times that you use your chiminea. The sand or the rock will also allow you to add or remove firewood at any time, and it will give you a convenient surface to balance your grill on when cooking outdoors. When you are done using your chiminea it is crucial to allow it to cool down slowly and naturally on its own. Intentionally speeding up the cooling process can cause stress in the clay, which could cause cracks or breakage in the clay. It is not recommended to put water on your chiminea, as it could damage or cause it to be destroyed. It is recommended to keep your chiminea clean by taking off any ash and rubbing with steel wool or a soft-bristled brush. It is recommended that you use a mild soap and water to clean your clay chiminea. However, some manufacturers suggest against using any acidic substances on their products. Style Chimineas are a beautiful addition to your backyard. Chiminea chimneys release smoke into the air. their shape allows for a large fire to be able to be held without having to worry about wind or rain. You might want to think about a terracotta or clay Chiminea to add warmth and ambience to your outdoor space. They are also great for cooking. Clay chimineas are constructed from fire-resistant materials that can withstand extreme temperatures. They are available in various sizes and colors, and some come with decorative accents for an additional look. They can be positioned on any surface that is fire-proof such as brick, concrete and stone patios. They can be used to cook wood or other fuels, but it is best to avoid using charcoal. Like all ceramic and terra cotta items, clay chimineas should be kept out of liquids like water and other. When they're not being used you can keep them in a protected area or inside a protective cover to keep moisture out. If you plan to use your chiminea for cooking, make sure you follow the instructions for use. Certain models require special care to avoid cracking. This can occur when the ceramic is exposed to sudden temperature fluctuations. Before lighting the chiminea's fire you must first fill it up to approximately halfway. This will prevent the flames from touching the sides of the chiminea and also to protect furniture on your patio. It's best if you start with a small fire. Chimineas made of clay heat up like huge radiators. A large fire can cause them crack or explode. It is also crucial to allow your chiminea to cool down slowly. It is possible for the clay to break if you use water to extinguish or move it quickly. This is called heat stress. To avoid this, place your chiminea in a stable area, such as an outdoor fire pit and avoid placing it near any wooden structures that could catch fire. Maintenance It is crucial to properly maintain your clay chiminea to ensure it lasts longer and works safely. Regular maintenance, such as using an appropriate cover, selecting the correct fuel, regulating the size of the fire, avoiding accelerants, and conducting regular inspections can significantly extend the life of your chiminea. Chimineas made of clay can break and crack, particularly if not used or stored properly. You can repair a broken clay chiminea by using a few materials and techniques. If the chiminea is split into more than two pieces, it's best to replace it. To avoid cracking, https://www.fireplacesandstoves.uk/products/murcia-medium-steel-chiminea-bbq-patio-heater to place the chiminea on an unflammable surface. You can also use sand or lava rock in the bottom of the bowl to absorb the heat of the flames. It is recommended to clean the ashes and rocks after each use as they will accumulate over time. You can also buy clay chiminea cleaner to keep the ash clean in between usages. When assembling your chiminea, be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer's directions and put it in a well-protected space away from branches that hang over, wires and wooden fences. It is also crucial to use only natural wood for your fires and not briquettes or coal, since they can cause cracks in the clay chiminea. If your chiminea starts to crack, you can often fix it with a bit of glue or putty. Make sure the chiminea is completely dry before you attempt to repair a crack. Sand the surface of the crack using medium grit sandpaper until it feels smooth. If your chiminea has been painted you'll need to take off the paint and sand down the unpainted clay beneath. In the off-season, it is possible to protect your Chiminea by covering it in a waterproof chiminea lid. This will stop moisture from damaging the clay, and prolong its lifespan. It's important not to leave the chiminea out in the elements during the winter months, since the changes in temperature can cause it to crack and break. Follow these easy tips to enjoy your chiminea throughout the year.