9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Chiminea Large
Clay chiminea sale large (webpage)
Clay chimineas are a great way to enjoy an outdoor fire. They are more fragile than iron chimineas, and require special care to ensure they last a long time.
Fill the chiminea up with sand, 3-4 inches below its mouth. This will protect the chiminea from direct contact with flames for the first few fires and allows it to get the chance to season.
Material
Since the beginning of time the use of clay chimineas has been used to heat homes and gather people for a meal and conversation. They are generally constructed of terracotta but they can also be made from other materials like cast iron or steel.
Cast iron is more durable than terracotta and is less susceptible to damage from abrupt temperature fluctuations. It can crack and break if not protected from snow or rain. Terracotta is more brittle however, it is a gorgeous material that gives the chiminea a classic Mexican look.
It is essential to let your clay cure chiminea prior using it for the first time. This will stop it from cracking from the sudden change in the temperature of the fire. You can do this by placing about two to three inches of river sand into the bottom of the chiminea. Then, begin with small pieces of kindling and gradually increase the size of the wood you choose to use. After some small chiminea fires the clay should be ready to start using.
Clay chimineas are often sealed to prevent water from causing damage over time. This is a great idea for any type of outdoor fire pit, but it's particularly important for clay chimineas because the clay absorbs water and when exposed to water frequently enough, it could crack.
While a clay chiminea is less likely to crack than metal, it does require some care to prevent moisture damage. Clay chimineas should be kept covered when not in use, and they should never be stored in a closed space because repeated exposure to moisture could cause the clay to break or crack.
Clay chimineas weigh more than other Ceramic chimineas and should be placed on a base specifically designed for outdoor fire pits. A patio hearth is a good option for this purpose, as it creates a fire-safe zone on a wooden deck or patio. The hearth in the patio can be built using pavers or bricks and 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 area of level garden soil, however this isn't advised since it may break or crack the chiminea with time.
Size
Chimineas are becoming more and more popular, they not only create a great atmosphere for relaxing outdoors but also provide plenty of heat, which makes them ideal for cooking or simply having fun with family and friends. They can be found in a wide variety of sizes and styles, from traditional clay models to contemporary cast iron and stainless steel models. They are one of the most versatile garden accessories and can be used for a variety reasons, such as cooking, heating lighting, and even decoration.
Chimineas are brittle and susceptible to cracking due withstand changes in temperature and moisture. It is therefore important to take care of them properly. A cover will protect them from rain damage, which can cause them weaken over time and eventually crack. It's also a good idea to place some Gardeco lava stone or 50mm of sand on the bottom of your chimenea. This will protect it from direct heat and stop the hottest part directly touching the clay which can cause it crack.
It is also a good idea to put a cap on the clay because it can prevent water seepage that can cause cracks and weakening over the years. The clay capped chimeneas are a bit more costly than the ones that aren't capped, but it is worth the investment as it will greatly extend their life span. Keep them away from items that ignite as this could lead to an accident. Also, do not place them in windy places because this could cause smoke to move in unexpected directions and make it difficult to use.
It is also a good idea, to seal your chimenea by using Butchers wax or Future floor wax at least twice a years. This will shield the clay from the elements and make the clay more resistant to cracking and warping. If you are in doubt about how to take care of your chimenea, or aren't sure of anything then please call us and we'll be happy to assist.
Cooking
Chimineas are intended to be used for outdoor cooking, and a vast variety of options are available. They are usually made out of clay, but they can also be made of cast iron or aluminum. They can be powered by charcoal, wood or gas. A lot of models have built-in grates that make them ideal for cooking a range of outdoor meals.
When selecting a chiminea to use, consider the dimensions, material and size to determine the best one for your requirements. Cast iron and aluminum are both durable and adaptable, whereas a traditional clay chiminea has classic design and excellent heat distribution. Certain chimineas have additional features, such as side tables for food preparation, which allows you to turn your fire into a centre of gastronomic activity.
Once you've found the perfect location for your chiminea, set it up on a level area of brick, concrete or a stone patio. It's important not to place it on a deck that is made of wood because sparks could fly out of the chimney and ignite any flammable material under it. It's important to place it away from eaves and other structures overhead because they could catch fire.
To prepare your clay chiminea for use, fill the bowl of the chiminea using coarse sand that is 3 inches above the mouth of the chiminea. This will help keep the hottest part of the flames from the clay, and also prevent it from cracking. Next, create an unintentional fire using a small amount of kindling and paper, then let it go to a halt and burn out naturally.
Once the fire is out, allow your tall chiminea to cool completely prior to trying to move it or add fuel. This will help minimize excessive smoke, reduce the possibility of chimney fires and improve your outdoor cooking experience. As ash and debris could clog up the chimney, it's important to regularly clean the chiminea. Make sure to remove any ash and debris after every use, as as during the cooling process to avoid damage. Keep your chiminea well-protected and clean to ensure it lasts longer and performs at its best.
Maintenance
Regular cleaning, precautions, and following the proper guidelines for usage are crucial to ensuring that your Clay Chiminea is in great condition and working safely. These easy steps will allow your chiminea to last longer and provide you with safe and enjoyable fires throughout the year.
Chimineas are designed to be used with small fires; it's important 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 to heat slowly, reducing the chance of thermal shock, which can cause cracks in the clay.
It is recommended to use a breathable cover for your chiminea when it's not being used particularly in rainy weather or overnight. Covers reduce the amount of moisture and rain that can damage the chiminea over time. A cover that is breathable allows air circulation, which stops condensation from accumulating and causing damage to the chiminea.
Properly extinguishing your chiminea is essential to ensure its longevity. Avoid using accelerants, such as gasoline, coal brquettes, propane or briquettes which can cause damage to the chiminea and pose danger to your safety by releasing toxic fumes. Instead, put out the chiminea by covering it with sand or extinguishing the flames using a dry chemical fire extinguisher.
It's important to keep your chiminea at a safe area, away from the overhanging branches and wires or garden furniture, as well as wooden fences. It's also a good idea to stand the chiminea on a non-flammable surface, such as a stone or tile patio.
Finally, it is important to check your chiminea for cracks or damage, especially after prolonged use or extreme weather conditions. If you spot any signs of damage, fix them promptly with clay repair kits to stop cracks from spreading and further causing damage to your chiminea.
A chiminea is a great focal point for your outdoor space. It brings warmth and charm and can be positioned in any garden or patio. Chimines could be a wonderful addition to your home for many years with regular maintenance. Follow these simple guidelines and your chiminea will last for longer and be more secure than ever.