Using a Chiminea Outdoors A chiminea can add an attractive accent to your outdoor patio space and can provide warmth for you and your guests. In contrast to fire pits, they are enclosed to prevent burning ash or embers from exploding and you don't have to worry about causing damage to furniture or plants. These fire places that burn wood offer a nostalgic Southwest or Mexican style due to their terracotta-based clay, stucco or glazed designs. Learn about how a fireplace functions and what types are available, and some safety tips before purchasing one. Types of Chimineas Chimineas are available in various materials to suit any backyard. Traditional clay models made of terracotta are easy to find and are affordable. These chimineas are not as durable, but are a great option for heating your outdoor space and weekend events. Modern steel, cast iron models, as well as copper are more robust and come in a variety of designs than terra-cotta models. They're more expensive but they last for years with minimal maintenance. A chiminea equipped with a cast-iron chimney is an excellent option for homeowners who want something more modern than the traditional clay model. Cast-iron chimneys are more expensive than clay models, but they last longer and can provide heat to multiple people at once. Cast-iron models are also more expensive than terra-cotta however they are worth the price because they do not break or crack as easily in winter. Steel chimineas are a great alternative to clay. They are not as expensive as cast iron models, and they come with a more contemporary style that can be incorporated into any backyard. Chimineas do not have to painted or cleaned as frequently as clay models due to the fact that they are strong and resistant to rust. Chiminesas can provide warmth to your yard, but they are two distinct things. Chimines are equipped with an chimney that lets smoke out while a firepit is equipped with a firebowl that holds the burning wood. A chiminea requires gravel or sand at the bottom to stop it from becoming a hazard, while a fire pit does not. Both chimineas, and fire pits are excellent for outdoor gatherings. However, a smaller chiminea will be the best option when your outdoor space is limited. The squat base of the chiminea tapers into the shape of a chimney, which makes it a beautiful and useful addition to your backyard. It can be moved to suit different spaces in your backyard. It's perfect for warming up your family and guests during the cool summer evenings and crisp autumn days. Materials The kind of material used to make the chiminea can affect its usefulness and longevity. Terra cotta is the traditional choice, however today chimineas are available in various materials, including steel and cast iron. The former is more resistant to damage, whereas the latter offers modern design. Whatever the material chimineas all require proper maintenance to keep them in good shape. Regularly inspect them for cracks, wear and tear and repair them whenever required. They also need to be lit, seasoned and extinguished properly for safe use. Chimineas can be more decorative than fire pits, and can be a an attractive accent to your garden or patio. Chimineas also produce more heat than firepits and the tall chimney design helps direct smoke upwards instead of outwards. Many models have a 360-degree mesh grate that maximizes heat, and a tall sturdy stand that can be used to raise the fire up to the highest point. A chiminea can be a fantastic addition to any backyard. However, it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for the dimensions of your patio. Consider the dimensions of your furniture and décor as well as any fire hazards that could be present to ensure that the chiminea you choose is the right size for your space. Chiminesas should always be placed on a safe base like terracotta tile, concrete or leveled sand. To avoid an accidental fire, it should be placed away from the deck railings. If your chiminea comes with legs, you must secure them to the ground using metal stakes. If your chiminea doesn't have a pedestal you can purchase one or construct one. This will help support the weight and stop the chiminea from falling over while it is in use. A chiminea, like any fireplace outdoors is required to be covered in bad weather to protect it against moisture and ice. If you own an chiminea made of clay it is recommended to use a ceramic sealant to help prevent cracking from water damage. Keeping it protected will ensure it will last longer and give you years of enjoyment. Styles This outdoor fireplace can be used to add warmth and elegance to your patio. https://www.fireplacesandstoves.uk/products/calico-cast-iron-chiminea-with-bbq-grill can be accented with planters, or made a focal point for your garden. The unique shape of a chiminea can be used as a canvas to create festive decorations or to create a romantic glow with the addition of sparkling beads. To protect yourself, chimineas should be kept away from flammable plants, but you can decorate them with heat-tolerant plants and foliage. Chimineas come in traditional clay, unglazed or glazed and metal designs that are either unfinished or glazed. Terracottas break more easily in the weather and require more maintenance than other types of Chimineas. However, they still have a sophisticated Mexican style that is popular among many homeowners. Metal chimineas are more resistant to damage, but they can also be extremely hot and heavy, making them a more expensive investment than the terracottas. Cast iron is a more robust option but they can also be heavy and difficult to move. The lighthouse design is a modern take on a chiminea. It has a fashionable rust finish that is perfect for modern backyards. This design is an eye-catching accent that looks great when paired up with furniture that is grey-finished on your deck. This chiminea is perfect for those who are avid entertainers because it lets you to cook your favorite pizzas on an open flame. If you have an old terracotta chimney that has been unused for years, consider giving it a fresh look by applying a coat of white paint to bring it back to life and give your outdoor space a fresh new feel. You can also recycle a gas tank to make a DIY chiminea. Keep your chiminea looking polished and beautiful by polishing it regularly with a natural polish like beeswax or olive oil. This will help keep the finish in good condition and keep its shine. It can be done easily using a soft sponge cloth. Chimineas can be shielded from weather and its lifespan by the use of a cover. Safety A chiminea outside is a fun way to entertain, adding ambiance as well heating to your patio or backyard. When using these fire features, it is crucial to use security precautions and keep pets and children away. Simple measures can ensure that your chiminea remains beautiful and safe for many years to come. Chimineas are best used outdoors at least 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials. They should be placed on a surface that is fire-safe like concrete pavers or bricks. It is not recommended to set them on a deck made of wood as it may burn through the boards, causing an unsafe collapse. It is also a good idea to rid the area around your chiminea of any materials that could ignite, and to remove grills and other combustible objects that are within 10 feet. This will prevent any embers from falling and igniting a fire. It is crucial to start with small pieces of wood, and then gradually increase the size. It is also a good idea to use only seasoned wood since it burns slower and not produce as many sparks as hot ones. Lastly, it is important to have water on hand to put out the fire in case it gets out of control. A spark arrestor can be made from fencing with holes that are small or a piece of chicken wire bent over the top. This will protect your home against smoke damage and decrease the chance of an accidental fire. A spark arrestor could be as simple as a piece of chicken wire bent over the top of the stack or it could be constructed from metal fencing with holes that are small that aid in removing any sparks that could be flying up. It's also an excellent idea to regularly maintain your chiminea, as this will extend its lifespan and ensure it looks amazing for years to come. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the ash, and checking for cracks. It is also a good idea for you to invest in a weather-resistant cover that can be used when not in use to shield your investment from the elements.