What is a chiminea?
A chiminea is a free-standing open fireplace that has a bulbous base and a vertical vent, or chimney, for smoke. These were originally used by Mexican tribesmen for warmth and a method of heating for their families. The first chimineas exported for worldwide use were made of clay and designed for use in hot countries. Many people were not aware that their new chiminea needed curing before use. It’s recommended that you should make five small fires in the bottom of the chiminea pot, one after the other, allowing each to cool completely before setting the next one. People who didn’t do this found that their chimineas had problems with thermal shock – which is cracking, due to a rapid change in temperature. As a result of this, chimineas fell from favour for a while. But now they are back in some beautiful cast iron, antiqued metal and aluminium designs. These are understandably more expensive than the clay versions but wear a lot better. Other forms of patio wood heaters. Fire pits are b
A chiminea is a type of outdoor fireplace typically made of clay and often used as a decorative accent to gardens and patios. A chiminea is typically molded with a round base and a tall top, shaped similarly to a flower vase or flask, and has an opening at the top and a mouth in the center of the round base. Chimineas come in various sizes and some are very plain while others have decorative features and designs carved into them. A chiminea sets upon a stand rather than directly on the ground. There are several advantages to a chiminea when compared to other types of outdoor fireplaces, but they are not without their disadvantages. A chiminea typically makes a smaller footprint in a garden or on a patio, taking up less space than traditional outdoor fireplaces. Since chimineas are made of clay, they do not rust after exposure to the elements like cast iron and metal fireplaces. Another advantage to chimineas is their ability to quickly burn through wood, making them ideal for easily di
Cast iron chimineas are a great way to enjoy a contained fire on a cool evening. They truly resemble “outdoor fireplaces,” and provide the same kind of ambience as an indoor fireplace. They have one big advantage, however. An outdoor chiminea on your patio extends the usefulness of you outdoor living space earlier in the spring and later in the fall. Outdoor chimineas include copper chimineas and cast iron chimineas, as well as clay. A whole is cut out of their round bottom portions, through which you view the fire and add fuel. Also, outdoor chimineas have a short chimney that directs the smoke up and away from you and your guests. Remember, despite their appearance, outdoor chimineas are for outdoor use only and should never be used for burning wood indoors. Position your outdoor chiminea a safe distance from anything combustible, and remember the smoke will rise through the chimney, so be aware what is above it. After you have it positioned, it is important to insulate the bowl so t
Originating in Mexico in the 17th century, the original chimineas were used to bake bread. As with the originals, modern chimineas are handmade from raw, wet clay, giving each chiminea its own personality. They are actually made from two pieces… the chimney or “stack” made separately from the wood chamber or “base”. After a short period of air drying, they are joined together to make a seemingly seamless fireplace! The formed chiminea is allowed to air dry for a few more days and then is baked in a 900+ degree kiln. Allowing enough drying time as important since chimineas placed into the kiln while too wet will invariably crack. After thorough cooling, the outside is painted to give a rustic-looking, almost antique appearance. (Personally, I like the antique weathered look… then I don’t have to be on “pins n’ needles” waiting for that first inevitable blemish!) Chimineas range in size from table top stoves used as candle holders to multi-hundred pound behemoths that can be used for
