Using a Chiminea Outdoors
Chimines can be an elegant touch to your outdoor patio and provide warmth for guests and you. They are enclosed, unlike fire pits, to prevent embers and ash from flying. This means that you aren't worried about causing damage to your furniture or plants.
These fire places that burn wood are nostalgic Southwest or Mexican look thanks to their terracotta clay, stucco or glazed designs. Learn how a chiminea works and the different types of chimineas available, and safety guidelines to think about before purchasing one.
Types of Chimineas
There are a myriad of materials that can be used to make chimineas that suit every backyard. Traditional clay models made of terracotta are easy to find and are inexpensive. These chimineas aren't as durable, but they are a great choice for basic outdoor heating and weekend celebrations. 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 a long time and require little maintenance.
A chiminea that has an iron fireplace is a great choice for homeowners who are looking for an elegant design than the clay model. The cast-iron models are more expensive than the clay models, however they last longer and are able to heat multiple people at once. Cast-iron models are also more expensive than terra-cotta models, but they are worth the price since they don't break or crack as easily during winter.
Steel chimineas are an excellent alternative to clay. They aren't as costly as cast-iron models and they have a more contemporary style that is a perfect match for any backyard. These chimineas are durable and rust-resistant, so they will not need to be painted or maintained as often as the clay models.
Both a chiminea as well as a fire pit can bring warmth to your backyard, however the two are very different. Chimines have a chimney that lets smoke out, whereas fire pits have a fire bowl which holds the burning logs. A chiminea needs pebbles or sand in the bottom of it to prevent it becoming a risk to the safety of people. Fire pits don't.
Chimineas and fire pits are excellent for outdoor gatherings. However smaller chimineas will be the best option when your outdoor space is small. Its squat-shaped base tapers to the shape of a chimney, which makes it a beautiful and functional addition to your backyard. It can also be moved to make room for different areas in your backyard. It's a great way to warm your guests and family during the cool summer evenings and crisp autumn days.
Materials
The material used to build a chiminea has an impact on its durability and utility. Terra cotta is the most popular material, but chimineas can be made from many different materials today, including cast iron or steel. The former is more resistant to damage whereas the latter provides a more contemporary aesthetic.
Whatever the material, all chimineas require proper maintenance to keep them in good condition. Regularly inspect them for cracks and wear and tear and repair them as needed. They should also be seasoned, lit and extinguished in a safe manner for use.
Chimineas are typically more decorative than fire pits, providing an an attractive accent to your pergola, patio, garden or other outdoor space. They also tend to emit more heat than fire pits and their tall chimney design allows them to the smoke to be directed upwards instead of outward. To add style, a lot of models feature a 360 degree mesh grate that maximizes the heat that is released and a sturdy, tall stand that elevates the fire up to the highest point.
While a chiminea can be an excellent addition to your backyard, it's crucial to select one that works perfectly with the dimensions of your patio or outdoor space. Consider the dimensions of your furniture and decor, as well as any fire hazards that could be present to make sure that the chiminea is the perfect fit.
A chiminea should always be placed on a fire-proof base, such as terracotta tile or concrete, or leveled sand. To avoid an accidental fire it must be set away from shrubbery or deck railings. If your chiminea has legs, they should be anchored in the ground with stakes made of metal. If your chiminea doesn't have a pedestal, you can purchase one or build one. chiminea garden will help support the weight and prevent the chiminea from falling while it is in use.
As with any fireplace outdoors, a chiminea needs to be covered during inclement weather to protect it from freezing and moisture. If you own clay chimineas and a ceramic sealant is required, it can aid in preventing cracks from water damage. Protecting it will help it last longer and give you years of enjoyment.
Styles
It doesn't matter if you want to embellish a chiminea by adding planters or make it the centerpiece of your garden the outdoor fireplace will add warmth and style to any patio. The unique shape of a chiminea may be used as a canvas to create seasonal decorations or an elegant glow by adding sparkling beads. To ensure safety, chimineas should be kept away from flammable plants. However you can embellish them using heat-tolerant plants and foliage.
Chimineas can be found in various styles that include traditional clay which can be unglazed or glazed and metal, which can be finished or glazed. Terracottas are the most susceptible to cracking in the elements and require more frequent maintenance than other types of chiminea, but they still have a classy Mexican-inspired look that's popular with many homeowners. Metal chimineas are less susceptible to damage but can also become extremely hot which makes them a much heavier investment than Terracottas. A sturdier choice is to go with cast iron, but they can weigh a lot and are difficult to move.
The lighthouse design is a modern take on a Chiminea. It features a trendy Rust finish that is ideal for a modern backyard. This design is an eye-catching feature that looks stunning when paired up with furniture that is grey-finished on your deck. This chiminea has the added benefit of letting you cook your favorite pizzas over an open flame, which means it's ideal for anyone who loves entertaining.
If you have an old terracotta chiminea that has been sitting unused for a while, you should consider giving it a makeover with a fresh coat of white paint to brighten it up and give your outdoor space a fresh new look. You can also recycle gas tanks to create a chiminea that you can make yourself.
Polish your chiminea regularly with beeswax, olive oil or other natural polishes. This will help keep the finish intact while preserving its shine, and it is easily done using an easy sponge or cloth. In addition, a chiminea cover can protect it from the elements of weather and extend its lifespan.
Safety
A chiminea outside is a fun way to entertain by adding ambiance as in providing warmth to your patio or backyard. When using these fire features, it's crucial to use safety precautions and keep children and pets away. Simple steps can ensure that your chiminea stays beautiful and safe for many years.
Chimineas are best utilized outdoors at least 10 feet from any structures or combustible materials. They should be placed on a safe surface such as bricks or concrete pavers. It is not recommended to set them on a wooden deck as it may burn through the boards, causing an unintentional collapse. It is recommended to remove all flame-prone material from the area surrounding your chiminea, and to remove any grills or other items that are combustible within 10 feet. This will stop any sparks from falling and causing an accidental fire.
When you are constructing a fire for your chiminea, it is essential to start with small pieces of firewood and then work your way towards larger pieces of wood. It is also a good idea to use only seasoned wood, because it will burn slower and not produce as many sparks as hot ones. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that water is available to put out the flame if it starts to get out of control.
A spark arrestor may be made from metal fencing with small holes or a piece of chicken wire bent over the top. This will protect your home from damage caused by smoke and minimize the chance of a fire that could be accidental. 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 small-holed holes, both of which will aid in removing any sparks that could rise up.
Regular maintenance of your chiminea will help prolong its lifespan and ensure it looks good for many years. Regular maintenance involves cleaning the ash and checking for cracks. You should also invest in a weatherproof cover to protect your investment.