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Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit

Chimineas, which were originally used as ovens for baking, are a reflection of Mexico's rich tradition of culture. The simple design, blending practicality with aesthetic simplicity is timeless.

Clay chimineas can be fired in kilns which remove organic material from the clay and seals the pores to stop cracking. They can be used outdoors all year long however they shouldn't be exposed to the elements for too long.

Origins

Imagine a warm evening in the summer with family and friends enjoying delicious food outdoors with a warm Mexican or clay chiminea. This scene is reminiscent of the Mexican origins for this type of outdoor fireplace.

These traditional terracotta stoves were designed to serve as radiant heaters as well as ovens. They were used to help tribesmen endure the cold winter nights in their home. Their distinctive shape stems from their utilitarian values that emphasized practicality and the importance of communal living.

Originally, these stoves were built from natural terracotta clay that was dried in kilns and then wood-fired. Chimineas made from clay have a more rustic look and were not glazed to protect the surface. Modern manufacturers now produce chimineas using metals like brass, cast iron and aluminum. These materials offer enhanced durability and weather resistance which addresses one of the biggest weaknesses of the clay design.

The chiminea's distinctive design was influenced by the concept of a potbellied base which rises up into an elongated chimney. This design is perfect for containing a fire while sending smoke upwards. This reduces air intake and maximizes heat retention.

Chimineas were used for cooking, heating and providing light for the indigenous people of Mexico. Today, we can appreciate these beautiful qualities and also for the comforting warmth they provide in cold autumn evenings and even in brisk winter days.

If your chiminea outdoor fireplace is an authentic Mexican piece or a modernized version, Gardeco has a choice of different styles to match your decor and garden. We carry a wide selection of sizes, ranging from small and medium to extra-large and large. We also have clay chimineas that have decor that can be moulded, or engraved into the body of the item.

Our range of terracotta chimineas and Mexican Chimineas are made by artisans in the heart of the country. The process of manufacturing can result in slight variations in shape and colour. If your chiminea begins discolour you can always paint it over with an water-based emulsion. Before you begin using your new chiminea it is important to read all the instructions and care tips provided by the manufacturer.

Design

Chimineas not only add warmth and character to any space they also are useful. They come in different styles and materials and can be paired to any patio furniture. They can be used as a focal point, or they can blend in seamlessly with your landscape.

The clay chimenea was conceived to serve both practical and historical reasons. Its chimney-like neck was tall and directed smoke away from users, while its rounded body exuded warmth. It was also used for socializing and telling stories, playing an important place in Mexican and Central American cultures.

Traditionally, chimineas were crafted by local artisans using wet clay, which was gathered directly from the ground. The clay was then formed into its final form before being kiln dried. Clay chimeneas are very labor intensive to make especially large ones. The chiminea's neck and bowl are created by smoothing long snakes of clay that have been rolled. The rim of the clay was usually decorated with patterns or carvings.

Modern chimineas are typically constructed of metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. The introduction of chimineas made from metal was a significant step forward because they can withstand high temperatures and moisture without cracking. This change allowed chimineas be used in many different climates.

Metal chimineas are the most common, although there are still some companies that manufacture clay and terracotta chimineas. The benefits of using metal chimineas are its capability 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 stand up to higher temperatures and be cleaned with ease.

No matter what kind of chiminea you pick it is essential to place it in the proper spot. It must be placed in a level area, away from any fire-prone objects like grass, trees or other structures. The largest chiminea should also be placed on a brick, concrete or stone patio and not on a wooden deck. It's also a good idea to put 50mm of sand, or Gardeco Lava Stones, under the chiminea. This will protect it from direct heat.

Materials

Traditional clay and terracotta chimineas which are still manufactured by small factories today, are kiln fired to temperatures as high as 1000c. Once they are cooled and dried they are then assemble. Some are coated with glazes, while others are unglazed. Chimineas like these are a popular choice because they provide that authentic Mexican look to a garden.

Chimineas are hand-painted in a variety colours and patterns to fit different styles. The paint finish can fade due to time and heat of the fire so it is recommended to paint again using an emulsion based on water.

The original purpose was to provide heating and cooking facilities for Mexicans living in towns, chimineas through the years have evolved into a symbol of culture, adjusting their function to accommodate a variety of needs. These distinctive structures were not only used by the indigenous people of Mexico as bread ovens, but also played an important function in repelling insects and promoting social gatherings.

The unique design of a chiminea having a wide base and a narrow chimney spout, allows the most air to be drawn in at the bottom of the structure, reducing smoke inhalation. It also helps retain heat in the belly of the chiminea, making it ideal for cooking over.

Today, chimineas can be found in a variety of materials including cast iron, terracotta clay and even aluminum. Terracotta chimineas are by far the most popular choice, providing the traditional Mexican style. However, they are prone to crack under pressure and should only be placed on a flat, fire-safe surface. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less susceptible to cracking and damage, but they are elegant and durable.

To ensure the chiminea lasts as long as possible, it should always be kept in a well-ventilated space and protected from wind and rain. It should be placed away from any walls or structures that might catch alight as well as eaves or patio roofs which could be damaged by the sudden change in temperature after the chiminea has been removed. To prevent the chiminea smoking excessively it is recommended that only seasoned, kiln-dried logs are burned. Regular cleaning with a wire brush is also important, as it will stop the accumulation of deposits that are liable to burn and blacken. Chimineas can be protected from wind, which will reduce the amount of smoke it produces.

Maintenance

Like any other fire apparatus the proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of your chiminea. This will extend its life and ensure that it operates safely. Chimineas can be fragile, and should be kept in a protected area in a place where they can be taken care for. While a chiminea made from clay may seem sturdy enough, it's still vulnerable to cracks and breakage from various sources. This is why it's essential to check your chiminea frequently for signs of wear and tear, and also to follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how often it should be fired.

To keep your Mexican chimney looking beautiful, you should clean it thoroughly with mild detergent. This will get rid of any dirt or grime that can cause discoloration or rust. To remove loose rust particles you should use a wire brush. It is recommended that gloves and goggles are used to protect. After you have scrubbed the chiminea, rinse it and allow it to dry completely. This will stop any moisture from causing corrosion, and can significantly extend the lifespan of your chiminea.

After your chiminea is cleaned and dried, it can be lightly sanded using fine-grit the sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and eliminate any rough areas that could catch on to sparks when you start an fire. The sanding can also help to make the surface more even and attractive. The sanding process can be followed by several coats of grill or stove paint to improve the appearance and ensure that your chiminea is protected from corrosion.

It is also recommended that you keep your chiminea out of direct sunlight and winds because this could cause the paint to fade and peel. If this happens, you can touch up the areas affected with water-based emulsion paints or masonry sprays and it's usually easy to do. It is also important to only build small fires and to add small chiminea amounts of wood at each time to your chiminea so that you make sure it is "broken in" and to prevent overheating.