Clay Chiminea Fire Pit

Clay chimineas are a fire risk unless they're placed on the metal stand (hopefully included) that came with them. They also heat up to a very high temperature and could cause burns to hands when children play too close to.

Large chimineas are hefty and difficult to move. They also can break or crack when dropped or tipped.

Rustic Design

A chiminea firepit adds an element of rustic to your backyard and creates a cozy environment for outdoor conversation. They feature a large base that tapers into a chimney, and are available in a variety of styles to fit with your patio or garden decor. A chiminea, though heavier than other fire pit designs, and more difficult to move around your backyard, is able to fit into smaller spaces.

Chimineas come in a wide variety of materials, including clay, cast iron, and terracotta for a Mexican-style appearance. They can be painted for an attractive accent and usually have handcrafted details. Clay and terracotta are not as durable than chimineas made of metal and can crack or even break when exposed to high temperatures and rough handling. They do not heat as fast as metal ones, and are ideal for households with children or pets.

Because of their structure they are more secure than fire pits as they are confined. A chimney directs smoke upwards to lessen the amount of smoke you or your neighbors experience. They're a great option for homeowners who live in areas where open flame fires are not permitted or for those who wish to stay clear of the smell of smoke from an open flame.

Chimineas are the best choice for wood burning, but can also be used with liquid or gas propane. Some models can also be used for cooking. When using a chiminea you should avoid turbulent conditions as strong winds can blow embers and smoke into the air. It is recommended that you build the chiminea on an outdoor hearth. It is a three by four foot area covered in pavers or a fireproof material.

You should only use firewood that is dried and kiln-dried and stacked evenly in the process of building an chiminea. Avoid oversized logs and large branches since they could easily split or break when handled. It is also recommended to keep at least 10 feet or more away from any structure like your home or shed. It is important to avoid lifting your chiminea using its chimney or stack as this could cause it to crack. It is also an excellent idea to cover your chimney with a firepit cover when it isn't being used.

Versatility

A chiminea fire pit can be more versatile than a metal one, as it can be used with various fuels. It can be filled with propane gas or wood. It can be used with different kinds of briquettes, but it is recommended to use kiln dried firewood that is easy to ignite and burns quickly, without emitting much smoke. This will minimize the amount of pollution that your neighbors and your garden suffer due to smoke.

It also has a chimney that funnels the smoke up and away from where people are seated, which can help to keep your outdoor space tidy and pleasant. You can also add other accessories like a log grate, or a fire poker to make it easier to tend the fire. If you're concerned about the amount of smoke that the chiminea produces, it's worth looking for an option with a stainless steel firebox.

Chimineas can be used in a variety of locations and in smaller backyards and even on balconies with careful installation. They typically distribute their heat over a greater area than the fire pit, which is why it is important to create a patio hearth or some other kind of fire-proof area that you can construct the chiminea. It should be smaller square, circular or circular area that is covered with pavers and located at least a safe distance from other structures or other materials.

Clay chimineas sale can last for many years when they are properly maintained and used. Place them on a stone, concrete or hearth for a patio. Cover the fire place with a layer of sand and lava stones. This will stop cracking due to the heat stress. Do not pour water onto a clay chimney that is hot because it could cause the chiminea to break or crack.

If you are seeking a chiminea that will fit your budget there are a few models that are affordable. However, if you are looking for the classic, traditional look you'll have to pay more for the hand-crafted model made from top-quality clay.

Safety

If you choose clay models, they must find its permanent home as soon as possible, as moving it regularly could cause damage to the delicate clay and cause cracks. If you don't have the space for an permanent chiminea space, a big chiminea cover will protect it from rain damage and will also stop dirt and leaves from accumulating. This can create the risk of fire.

Chimineas are hefty. If you are planning to make use of it as a garden ornament or place it in a large outdoor space ensure that it is secured and that there is sufficient clearance around it to ensure its safety operation. Consider a patio constructed of stone or bricks to protect your chiminea from wind-related damage.

Fill your chiminea with sand until it is about half full. This will keep the clay cool and keep the fire from touching the sides. Once the sand is dry you can light a small fire of newspaper and some kindling, but make sure that the fire is kept away from the sides of the stack. When the fire is burning, you can add a few logs or larger pieces of wood.

After you've started small flames with your chiminea, it's a excellent idea to seal the clay. This will help protect the clay and stop moisture damage to the paint finish.

Sealer should be applied periodically because the sealer will wear out with regular use. You can buy a suitable clay sealer from a hardware or garden retailer, or you can use a high-temperature silicone sealant like Future acrylic floor finish, that is ideal for use on ceramic and metal objects that are exposed extreme heat.

It is best to only burn hardwood or split softwood logs that are seasoned before using your chiminea. Also, always make sure the chiminea is not situated from eaves or any type of roof that may catch fire. Also, never remove a chiminea from flames using water, as this can crack clay and terracotta.

Maintenance

Chimineas are a favorite due to their rustic appeal, however they require special care to keep them in good condition. A few preventative steps will ensure that your terra-cotta chiminea lasts for a long time.

Always make sure you have a fire-proof surface when using your chiminea. This means placing it on an outdoor patio made of concrete or brick fire pit that is outdoors, on a solid wood deck, or on paving stones that are set in a small space. Make sure there is nothing that could catch fire above it such as an eave made of wood or a pergola.

Clean the chiminea always and especially during initial fires. This allows the clay to "season" and become more resistant to heat. Begin the fires by using a couple of pieces of kindling and let them burn out completely. You can then build larger fires and add more kindling each time. Avoid using wood with a lot bark because it could cause lots of sparks. Choose seasoned wood instead, as it tends to produce less sparks.

Fill the chiminea three quarters full of sand when it is ready to be used. Be sure to not touch any clay. Use a fire starter without lighter fluid or any other flame-enhancing products. After the sand has been covered with sand, light a small flame using only paper and a lighter. Make the fire a little bigger each time, but be sure that it doesn't touch the clay or any other flammable material.

A clay chiminea will last longer if regularly cleaned. This reduces the chance of structural damage resulting from accumulated soot or ash. Unburned ash can cause the risk of fire.

You should also apply a protective seal to the clay chiminea at least once or twice per year. This protects it from the elements and prevents moisture from leaking into the clay, which could make it more brittle.