Using a Chiminea Outdoors
A chiminea can be an elegant accent to your outdoor space and provide warmth for you and your guests. As opposed to fire pits they are enclosed to stop embers or ash from flying, so you don't have to worry about causing damage to furniture or plants.
These fireplaces that burn wood exude a nostalgic Southwest or Mexican design in stucco or terracotta clay and decorated with glazed designs. Learn about how a chiminea functions and the various types available, and safety tips to think about before purchasing one.
Types of Chimineas
Chimineas are available in different materials that will suit any backyard. The classic clay models in terracotta are easy to find and are affordable. These chimineas aren't as durable, but they are an excellent choice for basic outdoor heating and for weekend parties. Modern cast iron, steel and copper models are more robust and come with a wider variety of designs as opposed to the terra-cotta models. These are more expensive but last for years and require little maintenance.
A chiminea that has cast-iron fireplaces is a great choice for those who want an elegant design than the clay model. Cast-iron chimneys are more expensive than clay models, but they last longer and heat multiple people at once. Cast-iron models are also more expensive than terra-cotta models, but they are worth the price because they do not crack or break as easily during the winter.
Steel chimineas are an excellent alternative to clay. They are less expensive than cast-iron models, and their contemporary style is a perfect fit for any backyard. These chimineas are sturdy and rust-proof, so they won't need to be painted or treated as often as the clay models.
Both a chiminea as well as a fire pit can bring warmth to your backyard, but they are two distinct things. Chimines are equipped with chimneys to let smoke out and a firepit comes with a firebowl that holds the burning wood. Chimines require gravel or sand at its bottom to stop it from becoming a risk and the fire pit doesn't.
Both chimineas, and fire pits, are fantastic for outdoor gatherings. However smaller chimineas would be the best option if your patio or yard is limited. The squat base of the chiminea tapers into an chimney, making it a beautiful and functional addition to your backyard. It can be moved to fit various spaces in your yard. It is a great way to keep your family and guests warm during cool autumn evenings and crisp summer days.
Materials
The kind of material used to create the chiminea has an impact on its usefulness and longevity. Terra cotta is the most popular material, but chimineas are made of various materials that include cast iron and steel. The one is more resistant to damage while the latter provides a more contemporary aesthetic.
No matter the material, all chimineas require proper maintenance to keep them in good shape. Check them regularly for cracks and wear and tear and repair when necessary. To ensure safety they should also be properly cleaned, seasoned, and lit before being cleaned.
Chimineas are more decorative than fire pits, and can be a a beautiful design to your patio or garden. Chimineas also produce more heat than firepits and the tall chimney design helps direct smoke upwards, rather than outwards. To add style, a lot of models feature a 360 degree mesh grate to maximize the heat that is released and a tall, sturdy stand that raises the fire.
While a chiminea can be an excellent addition to your backyard, you need to choose one that fits well with the size of your patio or outdoor space. To ensure the chiminea fits your space, think about the dimensions of your furniture, the decor and any potential fire hazards.
Chiminesas should always be placed on a fire-proof base such as terracotta tiles or concrete, or even leveled sand. It should be set away from shrubbery, deck railings, or other fire-prone objects to minimize the possibility of a mishap causing a fire. If your chiminea is equipped with legs, they should be anchored in the ground using metal stakes. If it doesn't have a pedestal, you need to purchase or construct one to support the weight of the chiminea and stop it from falling over during operation.
As with any fireplace outdoors, a chiminea must be covered during stormy weather to guard it from moisture and ice. If you own an chiminea made of clay and a ceramic sealant is required, it can help to prevent cracks from water damage. It will last longer if you take care to protect it.
Styles
Whether you want to accent a chiminea with planters or make it a centerpiece for your garden the outdoor fireplace will add warmth and style to any patio. 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 ensure safety, chimineas should be kept away from plants that are flammable. However you can decorate them using heat-tolerant plants and foliage.
Chimineas are available in traditional clay, glazed or unglazed and metal styles that are either unfinished or glazed. Terracottas are most prone to cracking due to the elements and require more frequent maintenance than other kinds of chiminea, but they do offer a stylish Mexican-inspired look that's popular with many homeowners. Metal chimineas are more durable, however they can also become extremely hot. This makes them a more expensive investment than the terracottas. Cast iron is a more robust option, but they can be heavy and difficult to move.
The lighthouse design is a contemporary approach to a Chiminea. It has a fashionable rustic rust finish that is perfect for a modern backyard. This style is a striking accent that will look great when paired with grey-finished furniture on your deck. This chiminea is ideal for those who love to entertain, as it allows you to cook your favorite pizzas over an open flame.
If you have an old terracotta chiminea which has been sitting 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 look. Alternatively, you can repurpose an old gas tank to create an easy-to-make chiminea by using a little creativity and skill.
Keep your chiminea looking polished and beautiful by polishing it regularly with an organic polish such as beeswax or olive oil. This will help keep the finish intact and maintain its lustrous sheen. It is easy to do using a soft sponge or cloth. Chimineas can be protected from the weather and its lifespan with an enclosure.
Safety
Chimineas are a great way to bring warmth and ambiance to your patio or backyard. It is crucial to follow safety measures when using these fire features, and to keep kids and pets away from them. A few simple precautions will help ensure your chiminea stays gorgeous and safe for years to come.
Chimineas are best used outdoors, at least 10 feet away from any structure or combustible material. modern chiminea should be placed on a fire-proof surface, such as bricks or concrete pavers. They should not be placed on a deck made of wood as it may ignite through the boards and cause an unintentional collapse. It is a good idea to remove all flame-prone material from the area surrounding your chiminea, and to take away any grills or other items that are combustible within ten feet. This will prevent any embers from falling, and possibly causing an accidental fire.
It is essential to start with small pieces of wood and then move on to larger pieces. It is best to only use seasoned firewood, since it will burn slower and produce fewer hot sparks. It is also essential to have water available to quell the fire in the event that it becomes out of control.
It is also a good idea to place a spark arrestor on your chiminea stack, as this will help protect your home from smoke damage and will reduce the chance of a fire that is not accidental. A spark arrestor can be as simple as a piece of chicken wire bent over the top of the stack or it could be made of metal fencing with small-holed holes and both will help to extinguish any hot sparks that may be flying up.
Regular maintenance of your Chiminea can also help prolong its life and keep it looking good for a long time. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the ash, and checking for cracks. You should also consider investing in a weather resistant cover to safeguard your investment.