The Basics of a Ceramic Chiminea The most common type of chiminea is made out of clay. Think terra cotta plant pots or the red pottery ones. Clay is durable and hard but it can also crack when handled improperly. Clay is highly absorbent, and therefore needs to be protected by sand or gravel at the bottom of a chiminea, along with some kindling or logs. This prevents the clay from burning too hot and seals hairline cracks. Materials The traditional clay chimineas (also known as pot-bellied ovens) include a chimney that sends smoke upwards. These chimineas are usually coated to guard against weathering and cracking due to sudden temperature changes. However, they are still susceptible to sun and rain. Therefore, it is important to cover them when not in use to stop water puddles forming within the clay. The majority of chimineas are created out of terracotta clay, but other materials like cast iron and steel are also available. Aluminum and cast iron offer a durable option that requires less maintenance. Terracotta has a classic Mexican look. Some manufacturers offer modern designs that combine the beauty and durability of a clay-based chiminea. Many people choose to pair their chimineas with flowering or evergreen plants. This helps to create an organic look that enhances the natural beauty of their backyard space. It is crucial to be careful when you select the plants you want to plant since a Chiminea should be placed in a spot that is free of structures that could catch fire. It is important to ensure that the chiminea sits in a safe area for fire, such as a brick, concrete, or stone patio. Chimines are typically constructed by hand using high-fired clay that might or may not be coated with glaze. The artisan who shapes the clay is known as a potter. they can throw the piece on a wheel for a potter or using a mould made of plaster. In either case, the clay is kneaded and smoothed before being allowed to dry. Some of the more recent clay chimineas are pre-grogged. This is an additive that can help them resist thermal stress that can cause cracking in earthenware. Other chimineas can be made in metal moulds which allow them to be made in different styles and shapes to suit any backyard. Cast iron chimineas weigh more than clay models, however they hold up better to the elements and aren't as prone to cracking or breaking due to sudden temperature fluctuations like clay. They are cheaper than other types of chimineas, too and are available in gas-burning models, too to give you more versatility. Styles A chiminea is a fireplace which can be decorated in a variety styles and materials. Terracotta chimineas are an elegant appearance that has been used for centuries, whereas metal chimineas are more durable and are able to withstand high temperatures. Many chimineas feature designs and patterns that match the furniture of the patio. A rustic finish, for example, can give your chiminea a vintage look especially if you match it with wood or iron patio furniture. Chimineas can be freestanding or hung on a patio made of brick, stone or concrete. Whatever you decide to place your chiminea pick a spot that is safe from winds and away from flame-prone plants or structures. It is important to keep in mind that chimineas release smoke and soot that can impact the quality of the air in the area around it. Certain chimineas feature chimneys that open at the lower part of the structure, while others are square and point upwards. Both styles come with or without an opening that is large enough to accommodate firewood. The chimneys of squat models may also be shaped to add visual appeal and create a striking style. You can also add decorative elements to the exterior of your chiminea such as wrought iron, marble, or granite. You can also consider a ceramic or copper top for a touch of elegance. These finishes reflect light and increase the appearance of your chiminea. A regular chiminea-polish is another option to protect your outdoor fire pit from harm and enhance it. Utilize olive oil, beeswax or other natural products to polish the surface for an elegant, glowing appearance. Apply a thin layer of the product and rub gently. Rinse and dry your chiminea to achieve a radiant finish. Chimineas can be a lot of work, but with the right care and attention your chiminea outside will be elegant for a long time. By using efficient decorating strategies and maintaining your chiminea, you will be able to enjoy it well into the winter months. Safety Although chimineas are popular, they can pose dangers to safety if they are not properly utilized. Clay chimineas, especially ones that are not glazed, are susceptible to cracking and breaking. They also pose a fire hazard when placed too close to other materials that are flammable, such as your furniture, your home and the surrounding garden. It is best to use a chiminea outside and in an area that is secured or surrounded by fire-proof materials. Keep a fire extinguisher close to you and use it to put out small fires or hot coals that might occur while you tend to your flame. It is also a good idea to make use of a long lighter to light your fire and to move coals around with tongs instead of your hands. It is also a good idea to keep an empty bucket of water on hand in case you have to extinguish the chiminea. However, it is important not to use water to extinguish the chiminea that has been cool and to only add water after the fire has gone out naturally or if a huge fire is in danger of overflowing the chimney. The draft that is created by a chiminea could bring sparks up the stack, which is why it is important to protect your home and neighbors from accidental burns by using a simple spark arrestor constructed from chicken wire that is placed on the top of the stack. Chimineas also generate a lot of heat and the area surrounding them can get extremely hot, which is why you should place a low wall around the chiminea to remind people that coming too close could cause painful burns. You should never burn your chiminea in rainy or windy weather, as the sparks can catch surrounding plants and possibly cause a chimney fire which could easily damage your house. Check with your local fire department to see if there burning bans in place before using the chimney. Before adding firewood to the chiminea, make sure you clear the area surrounding it. This will ensure that there aren't any flammable materials within the area. It is also recommended to wash the inside of your chiminea following each use to avoid ash accumulation that could cause smoke inhalation and an ashy exterior. Maintenance Clay chimineas need some attention even when they are used to create outdoor fires. To ensure their longevity they must be handled exactly the same way as all clay products. This means avoiding permitting them to get too hot too quickly and taking the time to allow them to cool down between each use. They should also be sanded regularly and sealed to keep the paint from being damaged. The first step to keep your chiminea in good shape is to remove the ashes from it after every use, but only once the thing has completely cooled down. It will be warm, even though it appears to be cooling, so make use of a small rake and a brush to clear away the ash. Once https://www.fireplacesandstoves.uk/products/contemporary-steel-chiminea-patio-heater-black swept the ash out and disposed of it in a careful manner the next step is to fill the bottom with either gravel or sand. If you don't do this your chiminea might crack. The clay absorbs moisture and can crack if it is too dried. Some sources recommend sealing the outside of the chiminea with an acrylic waterproofing agent similar to those used to seal tiles. This will prevent moisture from getting into the chiminea and causing damage to it. It is recommended that the chiminea is sanded and resealed every 6-8 weeks during times of heavy use. Chimineas should only be burnt on clean, safe surfaces. They should not be placed on wood decking or on any other kind of overhead covering. Only using hardwood that has been well-seasoned will lower the amount of sparks and stop the clay from cracking. Because a chiminea is made of clay, it won't last forever, but it is hard to break unless you smash it with an hit or drop it. However, cracks can develop due to a variety reasons, like poor combustion and lack of maintenance. They also are susceptible to rust and need to be kept covered, at the very least, when not in use. This will keep snow and rain off of it, so that it will not cause corrosion to the metal parts of the chiminea.