How to Build a Big Clay Chiminea
Clay potters can throw huge cylinders with incredible skill. For the people who aren't experts an enormous clay chiminea is going to need to find its permanent home immediately - moving it can damage the clay.
Find a spot that has a safe open space and lay down a layer of play sand to children. Chimineas made from clay may be damaged if there are sudden changes of temperature or moisture.
Location
If you're looking for a method to warm your garden or patio, a large clay chiminea is an excellent alternative. These chimney-like works of fire art are wide and long and are easy to set up a solid flame and shield the flames from winds. The chimney is a conduit for smoke to the upwards, which reduces the heat they release. They are also safer than outdoor fireplaces. You can even cook food inside them if you'd like but it's recommended to make use of a separate grate and pan for this.
You'll also find a wide variety of styles and materials for these heaters. Clay and terracotta are traditional options however, you can get them in metals like steel or cast iron. Cast iron is a better choice for cooking because it can withstand higher temperatures. Another benefit of a metal chiminea is that it's simpler to move around than the clay or terracotta ones.
The best place to position your chimney is in an open, clear space where the chimney will be in a position to vent properly. Also, make sure there aren't any trees or other flammable items close to. You can also place the chiminea directly on the patio of a stone or brick patio. But, you must make sure it does not rest directly on any pavers, as this could cause cracks in the pavers.
You'll need to fill the bottom of your chiminea with sand in order to stop it from getting too hot while burning and also to stop any paper or kindling from falling into the chiminea and catching fire. Keep the sand and ashes in the chiminea, and clean the chimney each week to prevent ash accumulation. If you're not planning to use your chiminea in a long time make sure you keep it safe and cover it with a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements.
If you have a large clay chiminea, consider placing it on a raised base to prevent the chimney from getting too close to your home or other structures in your yard. It is a good idea to keep it 10 to 20 feet from your house. This is because it will become extremely hot and sparks could fly out of the chimney.
Size
The size of the chiminea you pick will depend on the place you plan to put it. If you have a large area in which to place the clay chiminea it could be advisable to select one that is larger to easily accommodate several people, and also provide plenty of warmth for them to enjoy.
If you're in a smaller space in which to place the clay chiminea, it might be better to opt for a small model that is able to comfortably hold only a handful of people and offer enough warmth for them to all sit comfortably.
The clay chimineas are typically made from terracotta clay however, they are also available in cast iron and other materials. Clay models are more vulnerable to damage than metal counterparts. However the proper care and maintenance will help them last longer. Both types of chimineas should be placed on stable, flat surfaces to prevent them from falling over and damaging decking or other outdoor furnishings.
Place your clay chiminea on an unflammable base like sand. This will help protect your decking and flooring from burns and scorches. It is also important to fill the bottom of the chiminea up to about halfway with sand or volcanic rock. This will stop the sand and rock from burning or becoming too hot to touch. It also reduces the stress on the clay material the first few times that you use your chiminea.
The sand chiminea fire pit or the rock will also allow you to add and remove firewood at any time as well as give you a convenient place to rest your grill on when cooking outdoors. It is important to let your chiminea cool down naturally and slowly when you are finished using it. If you attempt to speed up the process of cooling it may cause stress on the ceramic, which could cause cracks or break the ceramic.
It is not recommended to sprinkle water on your chiminea as this can damage or even ruin it. It is best to regularly clean your chiminea by removing any ash and brushing with steel wool or a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is recommended that you make use of mild soap and water to wash your clay chiminea. However, certain manufacturers recommend against using any acidic substances on their products.
Style
Chimineas are beautiful additions to your backyard. Their chimneys direct smoke into the air, and their shape allows them to accommodate a large fire without having to worry about rain or wind. You might want to consider a clay or terracotta Chiminea to add warmth and ambiance to your outdoor area. They are also ideal for cooking.
Clay chimineas can stand up to high temperatures and are constructed of fire-resistant materials. They come in a wide range of sizes and colors, and some even have decorative accents that add a touch of flair. They can be placed on any surface that is fire-proof such as brick, concrete, and stone patios. They can be used to burn wood or other fuels, however you should not use charcoal.
Clay chimineas, like most ceramics and terracotta objects, are best kept out of water and other liquids. When not in use you can keep them in a protected area or in a protective cover to keep moisture out. If you plan on using your chiminea for cooking, ensure that you follow the instructions for use. Certain models require special attention to avoid cracking. This can happen when the ceramic is subjected to sudden temperature fluctuations.
Before lighting the chiminea's fire you must first fill it with sand up to about halfway. This will stop the flames from extending into the sides of the unit and protect the furniture you have on your patio. It is best to create a small fire at first. Chimineas made of clay heat up like giant radiators. A large fire could cause them to crack or explode.
It is also essential to allow your chiminea to cool slowly. If you attempt to extinguish it using water or move it too fast, you can put the clay under stress and cause it to break. This is referred to as heat stress. To prevent this from happening, put your chiminea in a safe space like a firepit and avoid placing it near any wooden structures that could catch fire.
Maintenance
It is crucial to maintain your clay chiminea to ensure it lasts longer and functions safely. Regular care can extend the life of your chiminea. This includes putting on a cover to protect it and choosing the right fuel.
Clay chimineas can break and crack, particularly when not stored or used properly. If a clay chiminea is damaged, you can repair it using simple methods and materials. If the chiminea is broken into more than two pieces, it is recommended to replace it.
To avoid cracking, it's crucial to set the chiminea on a non-flammable surface and to use lava rock or sand in the bottom of the bowl to absorb heat from the flames. It's a good idea also to clean the ashes and rocks after each use, as they can accumulate over time. You can also purchase a special clay chiminea cleaner to keep the ash clear between use.
When assembling your chiminea, be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer's directions and put it in a well-protected area away from overhanging branches, wires and wooden fences. It is also essential to only use natural wood, not briquettes, coal or other fire-prone materials. Briquettes and coal can cause cracks in the clay chiminea.
If your chiminea starts to crack, it is possible to fix it with the help of some glue or putty. Make sure that the chiminea has dried completely before you attempt to repair the crack. Sand the surface of the crack with medium-grit sandpaper until the surface feels smooth. If your chiminea has been painted you'll need to take off the paint and sand down the naked clay underneath.
In the off-season, you can protect your Chiminea by covering it with a waterproof chiminea lid. This will prevent the clay from being damaged by moisture and will extend the life of the clay. It's a good idea to avoid leaving your chiminea outside during the cold weather during the winter. The temperature changes could cause it to break or crack. Follow these easy tips to enjoy your chiminea all year long.