9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Mexican Chimineas
Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
Originally designed to be a bread oven Chimineas represent Mexico's rich culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetics, is timeless.
Clay chimineas can be fired in kilns which remove organic material from the clay and seals the pores to avoid cracking. They are made to be outdoors all year round, but must be protected from prolonged exposure to the elements.
Origins
Imagine a warm evening in the summer, with your loved ones and family enjoying delicious food outdoors with a warm Mexican or clay chiminea. It's a picture an ode to the Mexican origins of this type of outdoor fire pit.
These traditional terracotta stoves were made to be both radiant heaters as well as ovens. They helped tribesmen to survive the cold winter nights in their homes. Their distinctive shape stems from their utilitarian values, emphasising practicality and the importance of living in a communal setting.
The stoves were created from terracotta clay, which was dried in kilns, then wood-fired. Clay chimineas have a more rustic appearance and were not glazed to protect the surface. Modern manufacturers produce chimineas made of metals, such as aluminum, cast iron and brass. These materials are more robust and resistant to weather which is one of the major limitations in the clay design.
The distinctive design of the chiminea was inspired by the concept of a pot-bellied foundation that rises into an long chimney. This form is a perfect way to contain fire while also directing smoke upwards, which reduces air inhalation and maximizes heat retention.
Chimineas were used by Mexican tribes for heating, cooking and lighting. We still appreciate their beauty and the warmth they provide in the chilly autumn evenings or even in the brisk winter sun.
No matter if your chiminea's an authentic Mexican piece or a more modern version, Gardeco has a choice of styles that will suit your decor and garden. We carry a wide selection of sizes, ranging from small and medium to extra-large and jumbo. We also have clay chimineas which have been decorated with either a moulded or engraved design.
Our selection of terracotta Chimineas as well as Mexican chimineas is handmade by artisans from the heart of the country. The colours and shapes can vary slightly due to the nature of the manufacturing process. You can always repaint your chiminea using an emulsion paint that is water-based if it begins to turn discoloured. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and care tips before using your new chiminea for the first time.
Design
Chimineas not just add warmth and character to any space They are also functional. They are available in a variety of designs and materials. They can be paired with any patio furniture. They can be a focal point or blend in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
The traditional chimenea, made of clay, was created with both practical and cultural significance in mind. Its tall, chimney-like neck directed the smoke away from the users and its rounded round body radiates warmth. It was also used for socializing and telling stories, giving it a significant role in Mexican and Central American cultures.
Traditionally, chimineas were made by local artisans from wet clay that was taken directly from the ground. This raw material was then formed into its final form before being dried in a kiln. Clay chimeneas can be extremely labor-intensive to create particularly large ones. Typically potters would coil long snakes of clay into a cylindrical shape, and then smooth the clay together to form the chiminea's bowl as well as neck. The rim of the clay was often decorated with carvings and patterns.
A modern chiminea is typically made of metal such as cast iron or aluminum. The introduction of chimineas made of metal was a significant step forward because they can endure high temperatures and extreme moisture without cracking. This modification allowed chimineas be used in a broad range of climates.
Metal chimineas for sale near me are most commonly used however there are some companies that produce clay and terracotta chimineas. The benefits of using metal chimineas are its ability to withstand higher temperatures as well as the fact that it can be cleaned more easily. Metal chimineas are much more popular than clay chimineas since they can endure higher temperatures and be cleaned with ease.
No matter which type of chiminea you choose, it's essential that you place it in the right place. It should be set in a leveled space far from any flammable items such as trees, grass or other buildings. The chiminea should be placed on a brick, concrete, patio or stone terrace and not on a wood deck. It's also recommended to place 50mm of sand or Gardeco lava stones beneath the chiminea in order to shield it from direct heat and keep the hot part of the fire from the clay.
Materials
Kiln-fired clay chimineas and terracotta are still being made today by small-scale factories. The temperatures can rise up to 1000c. Once they are cooled and cured they are then assemble. Some are glazed while others remain unglazed. These chimineas are a popular choice because they provide that authentic Mexican style to your garden.
Chimineas are usually hand painted, with a variety of colors and designs that can be adapted to a wide range of styles. The paint finish will fade over time and because of the heat generated by the flame, so it is best to re-paint using a water-based acrylic emulsion.
Though originally intended as vital elements of heating and cooking for urban Mexicans, chimineas have embodied an appreciation for cultural heritage through time, adapting to diverse requirements for functional purposes. These distinctive structures weren't only used by the indigenous people of Mexico as bread ovens, but also played a significant function in repelling insects and promoting social gatherings.
The unique design of a chiminea, having a wide base and narrow chimney spout, allows the maximum amount of air to be drawn in at the bottom of the structure, reducing smoke inhalation. It also helps keep the heat within the chiminea's belly, which makes it perfect for cooking.
Currently, chimineas are available in a wide variety of materials, including cast iron, terracotta and even aluminum. Terracotta chimineas offer the classic Mexican look. However, they are susceptible to crack under pressure and should only be used on a flat, safe for fire pits chimineas surface. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less susceptible to damage, while remaining stylish and robust.
To ensure the chiminea lasts as long as possible It should be placed in a well-ventilated location and shielded from rain and wind. It should be positioned away from any walls or structures that might catch alight and also any eaves or patio roofs which may be damaged by the sudden shift in temperature when the chiminea's flame is completely extinguished. In order to prevent the chiminea's ashes from burning too much, it's recommended that leaves be avoided and only well-seasoned, kiln-dried logs be burned. Regular cleaning using a wire brush is important, as it will prevent build up of deposits that could cause the chiminea to burn and blacken. The chiminea can be shielded from the wind to reduce the amount smoke that it emits.
Maintenance
Like any other fire apparatus it is important to maintain it properly to ensuring the longevity of your Chiminea. This will extend its lifespan and ensure that it operates safely. Chimineas are fragile and should be kept outdoors in a place where they can be taken care for. Even if a chiminea made of clay appears sturdy, it can still crack and break from various sources. This is why it's important to inspect your chiminea regularly for signs of wear and tear as well as to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on how often it should be fired.
To keep your mexican chimney looking great it is essential to clean it thoroughly using mild detergent. This will eliminate any dirt or grime that can cause discoloration or corrosion. A wire brush should be used to scrub away dust and rust particles. it is also recommended that you use gloves and goggles to protect yourself. After scrubbing your chiminea clean, rinse it and let it dry completely. This will prevent any moisture from causing corrosion, and can also prolong the life of your chiminea.
After your chiminea is cleaned and dried, it should be lightly sanded using fine grit the sandpaper. This will smooth out the surface and remove any rough areas that could catch embers if you decide to make an open flame. Sanding can also make the surface appear more attractive and even. In the end, sanding could be followed by several coats of grill or stove paint that will enhance the appearance of your top rated chiminea and keep it from rust.
Keep your chiminea away from direct sunlight and winds as it can cause paint to peel and fade. You can easily fix the issue using water-based emulsions paints or masonry sprayed. It is also essential to only add a few pieces of wood at a time and make small fires in your chiminea to "break it in" and prevent overheating.