Clay Chiminea Fire Pit

Clay chimineas are dangerous to fire if it sits on the stand made of metal that (hopefully) came with it. They also heat up very quickly and can burn hands if accidentally touched if children get too close.

Large chimineas can be heavy and difficult for you to move. They can also break or crack when dropped or tipped.


Rustic Design

A chiminea fire pit adds a distinct rustic look to your backyard, creating a cozy setting for outdoor conversation and relaxation. They are available in a variety of styles that complement your patio or garden decor. They have a wide base that tapers to an open fireplace. While they are heavier than other fire pit designs the chiminea is very easy to move around your yard and works well in small areas.

Chimineas can be found in a vast variety of materials, including clay, terracotta, and cast iron for a Mexican-style appearance. They are able to be painted for an aesthetic appeal and are often adorned with handcrafted detailing. The chimineas made of clay and terracotta are less durable than metal and may break or crack when exposed to extreme temperatures and rough handling. They do not heat up in the same speed as metal ones, and are better for homes with pets or children.

Because of their design they are more secure than fire pits because they are confined. They also have a chimney that directs smoke upwards, which will reduce the amount of smoke that you or your neighbors experience. They are therefore a great option for homeowners who live in areas where open-flame fireplaces are not permitted or for those who wish to stay clear of the smell of smoke from a flame that is open.

Chimineas work best when cooked with wood, but they can also be used with liquid propane or gas. Some models are also designed for cooking. You should never use a chiminea in a windy conditions, as strong gusts could blow smoke or embers through the air. It is recommended that you build a chiminea on an outdoor hearth. This is a three by four foot area that is covered with pavers or fireproof material.

When you build a chiminea you should use kiln-dried firewood that is placed in a consistent manner. Avoid large logs and branches as they could easily break or split if handled. It is also recommended to keep at least 10 feet or more away from any structure, such as your shed or home. It is important to not lift your chiminea using its chimney or stack since this could cause it cracks. It is also a good idea to cover your chimney with a firepit cover when it isn't being used.

Versatility

Chimineas are more adaptable than one made of steel because it can be filled with a variety fuels. It can be filled with wood or propane gas. It can be used with various briquettes, however it is preferred to use kiln-dried firewood that is easy to ignite and burns quickly, without emitting a lot of smoke. This will minimize the amount of pollution your backyard and neighbors suffer due to smoke.

It also has an integrated chimney that draws smoke away from people sitting on it, assisting to keep your outdoor area neat and comfortable. You can also add accessories such as a log grate or a fire poker to make it easier to tend the fire. If you're worried about the amount of smoke that a chiminea releases it's a good idea to look for a model with a stainless steel firebox.

Chimineas work well in any type of location. Metal chimineas can be put in small backyards or on balconies with proper care. They usually distribute their heat over a larger area than the fire pit, which is why it is essential to build a patio hearth or other kind of fire-safe space in which to build the Chiminea. It should be small rectangular or circular space which is covered with pavers and situated at a minimum distance from other structures or other materials.

Chimineas made of clay can last for a long time when they are taken care of and used. Place them on a stone, concrete or hearth in a patio. Cover the fire pit with a layer of sand and lava stones. This will stop cracking from heat stress. Never pour water on the chimney of a hot clay because it could cause the chiminea to break or crack.

You can find several models that are reasonably priced when you're searching for a chiminea to fit your budget. However, if you're looking for the traditional, classic look, you will have to spend more for a hand-crafted version that is made from high-quality clay.

Safety

If you decide to buy a clay model be sure that it is placed in a permanent location. Moving it around could cause damage to the clay and cause cracks. If you don't have enough space to permanently locate your chiminea, a quality cover for chimineas is a fantastic option to shield it from damage caused by rain and prevent the build-up of leaves and dirt that could block air flow and cause fire hazards.

Chimineas are heavy. If you plan to make use of them as garden ornaments or put it in the outdoors be sure it is securely placed and that there is sufficient clearance around it to ensure its safety operation. Also, consider a protective stone or brick patio to prevent the chiminea from being damaged by the winds.

Before using your chiminea for the first time you should fill it with sand up to about halfway. This will stop the fire from touching the sides of the stack and will help to keep the clay cool. Once the sand is dry you can start a small flame of newspaper and some kindling, making sure that the fire is kept away from the sides of the stack. Once the fire has started to smolder, you can add some logs or larger pieces of wood.

After you've started a few small fires in your new chiminea it's a good idea apply a sealer on the exterior of the clay. This will help to protect the clay and prevent damage from moisture to the paint finish.

Sealer should be applied regularly as the sealer will wear out with regular use. You can purchase a suitable clay sealer from a garden or hardware store, or alternatively you can apply a high-temperature silicone sealant like Future acrylic floor finish which is ideal for use on ceramic and metal objects that are exposed extreme temperatures.

It is recommended to burn only softwood or hardwood logs that are seasoned before using your chiminea. Also, always make sure the chiminea is not situated from eaves and any kind of roof that could catch fire. Never put out a chiminea using water, as this can crack clay and terracotta.

Maintenance

Chimineas have a rustic charm that draws people to them, but they require special attention to ensure they stay in good shape. You can prolong the life of your terracotta chiminea by taking some preventative measures.

Always ensure that you use a safe, fire-proof surface when you use your chiminea. Place it on a brick or concrete patio, fire pit for outdoor use or a solid wooden deck. Also, make sure that there is nothing over it that can catch fire, for example an eaves or pergola made of wood of your home.

Clean the chiminea all the time, but especially during the initial fires. This will allow the clay to "season" and become more resistant to heat. Begin the fires with a few pieces of kindling and let them burn out completely. You can then build larger fires, adding more kindling each time. Avoid adding wood that has a lot of bark as it can cause many sparks. Choose seasoned wood instead since it tends to be less sparky.

When the chiminea has been seasoned and ready to use and filled three-quarters of the way full with sand. Ensure that it doesn't touch the clay. Use a fire starter without lighter fluid or any other flame-enhancing products. After the sand has been covered by the clay, light a small fire using only paper and a lighter. The fire should be growing in size each time. Be careful not to let it touch the clay or other substances that are flammable.

Regular cleaning is essential for the longevity of a chiminea made of clay. This helps reduce the chance of structural damage from accumulation of soot and ash. Ash that is not burned could pose the risk of fire.

Every year, or at least once, you should seal the clay chiminea. This protects it from the elements and keeps moisture from leaking into the clay, which can cause it to become softer.