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Clay Chiminea Large
Clay chimineas are a lovely option to enjoy fires in the outdoors. They are a little more fragile than iron chimineas and require special care to ensure they last a long time.
Fill the chiminea with sand, 3-4 inches below its mouth. This will shield the chiminea from the first few times from contact with flames, and allow it to dry out.
Material
Clay chimineas have been used for about four hundred years as a place to gather to talk and eat and also to warm the home. They are generally constructed from terracotta clay although they are also available in a number of other materials, like cast iron and steel.
Cast iron is more durable than terracotta, and it is less prone to damage from abrupt temperature fluctuations. However, it could crack or break easily if it is not protected from rain and snow. Terracotta is more delicate, but gives the chiminea a traditional Mexican look.
It is essential to let your clay cure chiminea prior using it for the first time. This will prevent it from cracking over time due to the sudden shift in the temperature of the fire. This is accomplished by adding two to three inches (or more) of river sand in the bottom of the chiminea. Start by using small pieces and then increase the size of the wood gradually. After a few small fires, the clay should be ready to use.
Chimineas made of clay can be sealed to stop moisture from destroying chimineas over time. This is a great idea for any type of outdoor fire pit, but it's particularly important for clay chimineas clay because the clay absorbs water and when exposed to water too often, it can crack.
Clay chimineas are less prone to crack compared to metal chiminea chimineas, however they should be handled with care in order to avoid moisture damage. Clay chimineas must be covered when not utilized and should not be kept inside. Moisture can cause the clay to crack or break.
Clay chimineas are more heavy than other types of chimineas and must be placed on a base that is designed for outdoor fire pits. A patio hearth is a good option to accomplish this, since it provides a fire-proof zone on the deck or patio made of wood. The hearth in the patio can be built using pavers or bricks, and it should be at least a three-by-four-foot area. If you do not want to build a hearth for your patio you can put the chiminea on an even patch of garden soil, but this isn't advised because it could cause cracks or breakage to the chiminea over time.
Size
Chimineas are becoming more popular, they create an ideal outdoor atmosphere, but also provide plenty of heat, making them perfect to use when cooking or simply enjoying the company of friends and family. They can be found in a wide range of sizes and styles, from traditional clay models to modern cast iron and stainless steel chiminea ones. They are among the most versatile garden items available. They can be utilized in a variety of ways, including heating, cooking, illumination and decoration.
Chimineas are incredibly fragile and are susceptible to cracking due to the fact that they are able to withstand fluctuations in humidity and temperature, therefore it is essential to care for them properly. A cover will protect them against rain damage which could cause them to become weaker over time and crack. It is also a great idea to place some Gardeco lava stone or 50mm of sand at the bottom of your chimenea. This will shield it from direct heating and prevent the hot part from directly touching the clay which could cause it to crack.
A cap made of clay is an excellent idea since it will stop water seepage, which could again cause them to weaken over time and crack. The clay capped chimeneas are a bit more costly than those that are not capped, but it is worth the investment because it will prolong their lifespan. It is also an excellent idea to keep them away from fire-prone objects because this could lead to an accident and also to never place them in windy areas as this can cause smoke to flow in unintended directions, which could make it difficult to use.
It is also a good idea, to seal your chimenea using Butchers' wax or Future floor wax once or twice per year. This will help protect the clay from damage and make the clay more resistant to warping and cracking. If you have any doubt about how to care for your chimenea or are uncertain of anything, contact us and we'll be happy to assist.
Cooking
Chimineas are intended to be used outdoors for cooking, and a large range of options are available. They are generally made of clay, but can also be made of cast iron or aluminum. They can be fuelled by wood, gas or charcoal. Many models come with built-in grates which make them suitable for preparing an array of outdoor meals.
When selecting a chiminea be sure to consider the material, size and style to choose the one that is best chiminea for your requirements. A traditional clay chiminea has classic style and great heat distribution, while aluminum and cast iron are more durable and versatile. Some chimineas have extra features, like tables to prepare food. This allows you to transform your fire into an area of culinary activity.
Install your chiminea on a flat concrete, brick, or stone patio once you have found the ideal spot. It's important not to place it on a wood deck as sparks could erupt from the fireplace and ignite material that is flammable under it. It's not recommended to place the chimney near eaves or other overhead structures as they can catch fire.
The bowl of your clay chiminea up to approximately 3 inches below the mouth. This will shield the hot part away from flames and prevent it from damaging the clay. The next step is to build an unintentional fire using a small amount of kindling and paper and let it burn and go out naturally.
After the fire is out, allow your chiminea to cool completely before trying to move it or add fuel. This will reduce excessive smoke, reduce the risk of chimney fires and enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Regular cleaning of the chiminea also necessary, as ash and debris can clog the chimney and reduce the airflow. Make sure you remove any ash and debris after every use, as well during the cooling process to avoid damage. Keeping your chiminea clean and secured will prolong its lifespan and ensure that it performs to its best.
Maintenance
The key to keeping your Clay Chiminea looking good and working safely is regular cleaning, security measures, and a clear set of guidelines for use. These simple steps will allow your chiminea to last longer and give you safe and enjoyable fires throughout the year.
Chimineas are designed to be used with small fires. It's essential to start with a small fire and small logs, then gradually increase the size of the fire over a few uses. This allows the clay heat up slowly, reducing the risk of thermal shock which can crack the pottery.
It is advisable to use an air-tight cover for your chiminea when it's not being used particularly in rainy weather or overnight. Covers reduce the amount of moisture and rain to the chiminea, which could cause cracking over time. A cover that is breathable allows ventilation, which prevents condensation from building up and damaging the chiminea.
Extinguishing the chiminea properly is essential to ensure its long-term viability. Avoid using accelerants like coal, propane, briquettes or gasoline. These could damage your chiminea, and put you at risk by emitting toxic fumes. Instead, you should extinguish the largest chiminea using a cover with sand or putting out the flames with a dry chemical fire extinguisher.
It's recommended to keep your chiminea in a safe area, away from the overhanging branches and wires as well as garden furniture and wooden fences. Additionally, it's an ideal idea to set the chiminea on a non-flammable surface, like a stone or tile patio.
It is also important to check your chiminea for cracks or damage, particularly after long use or extreme weather conditions. If you notice any signs of damage, fix them quickly using a clay repair kit to stop cracks from spreading and further damaging your chiminea.
A chiminea is a great focal point for your outdoor space. It provides warmth and charm and can be put in any yard or patio. Your chiminea can be a beautiful addition to your home for many years with regular maintenance. Follow these simple guidelines and your chiminea will last for longer and be safer to use than ever before.