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Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit

Originally used as a bread oven Chimineas represent Mexico's rich cultural heritage. The timeless design blends practicality and aesthetic simplicity.

Chimineas made of clay can be fired in kilns which remove organic material from the clay and seals the pores to stop cracking. They can be utilized outdoors all year, but should not be exposed to the elements for too long.

Origins

Imagine a summer evening that is warm and sunny with your friends and family, enjoying delicious food in a beautiful outdoor space, kept warm by the gentle warmth of your clay or Mexican chiminea. It's a scene like the Mexican roots of this type of outdoor fire pit.

The traditional terra-cotta stoves were designed to function as radiant heaters and ovens, assisting tribesmen through the winter nights in their home country. Their distinct shape was derived from their utilitarian values that emphasized practicality and the importance of living in a communal setting.

Originally, these stoves were made from terracotta clay, which was dried in kilns, then wood-fired. Clay chimineas have a more rustic look and were not glazed to protect the surface. Modern manufacturers create chimineas made of metals, such as aluminum, cast iron and brass. These materials provide enhanced durability and weather resistance and address one of the major weaknesses of the Clay Chiminea large design.

The unique design of the chiminea was inspired by the idea of a pot-bellied foundation that rises to form an elongated chimney. This form is a perfect way to contain a fire whilst directing the smoke upwards, which reduces the risk of inhaling air and increases heat retention.

Chimineas were a popular method of lighting, heating and cooking. We still appreciate their beauty and the warmth they provide in the chilly autumn evenings or even under the cold winter sun.

Gardeco has a range of styles that will fit your garden. We offer a variety of sizes, from small to extra-large. We also carry clay chimineas which have been decorated with either a moulded or engraved design.

Our selection of terracotta chimineas and Mexican Chimineas is made by artisans in the heartland of Mexico. The process of manufacturing can result in minor variations in the shape and colour. If your chiminea starts to discolour, you can easily repaint it with an water-based emulsion. Before you use your new chiminea, it is important to read all the instructions and tips on care given by the manufacturer.

Design

Chimineas not only add character and warmth to any space they also are functional. They are available in a variety of styles and materials and can be combined with any patio furniture. They can be used as a focal point or they can blend seamlessly with your landscape.

The traditional chimenea made of clay, was designed with both practical and historical significance in mind. Its tall chimney-like neck directed smoke away from the users and its rounded body radiates warmth. It also served as a gathering place for storytelling and socializing and played a significant role in Mexican and Central American culture.

Traditional chimineas are crafted by local artisans using moist clay that is taken directly from the earth. The clay was then formed into its final form before being kiln-dried. The process of making the clay chimenea was very labor-intensive, particularly for the larger ones. The chiminea's neck and bowl are made by smoothing long snakes of clay rolled. The clay's rim was often decorated with patterns and carvings.

Modern chimineas are usually made from metals such as cast-iron or aluminum. Metal chimineas are an important development because they can withstand moisture and high temperatures without cracking. This change allowed chimineas be used in many different climates.

Although there are a number of companies that make clay and terracotta chimineas, most chimineas now are made of metal. Metal chimineas last longer and are easier to clean. Metal chimineas are more sought-after than clay chimineas since they can endure higher temperatures and be cleaned easier.

No matter what type of chiminea you choose, it's essential that you place it in the proper location. It should be positioned in a level location and away from any fire-prone objects like grass, trees or other structures. The chiminea must also be placed on a brick, concrete or stone patio and never on a wooden deck. It's also recommended to place 50mm of sand or Gardeco lava stones under the chiminea indoor in order to shield it from direct heat and keep the hot part of the fire away from the clay.

Materials

Traditional chimineas of terracotta and clay which are still manufactured by small companies today, are fired to temperatures up to 1000c. Once they are cooled and dried, the chimineas are assembled. Some are glazed, while others are left unglazed. These chimineas provide an Mexican feel in the garden.

Chimineas are typically hand-painted with various colors and designs that can be adapted to the various styles. The paint finish will fade over time and with the heat from the fire, therefore it is recommended to paint again using an acrylic emulsion that is water-based.

Originally designed to provide cooking and heating facilities for Mexicans living in towns, chimineas through the years have evolved into an iconic symbol of Mexican culture, changing their functions to meet a variety of needs. In addition to being bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico, these distinctive structures also played an important function in repelling insects and in promoting social gatherings.

The unique design of the chiminea, with its wide base and narrow chimney spout allow the most air to be drawn into the chiminea's bottom, reducing the intake of smoke. It also helps to retain heat within the belly of the chiminea, which makes it ideal for cooking over.

Currently, chimineas are available in a wide variety of materials such as terracotta, cast iron, and even aluminum. Terracotta Chimineas are the most common choice, offering the classic Mexican look. However, they are prone to cracking under pressure, and should only be used on a flat, safe for fire surface. Cast iron and aluminum chimineas carry less danger of being damaged but are still stylish and robust.

To ensure the chiminea lasts as long as possible, it should always be kept in a well-ventilated area and protected from wind and rain. It should be placed away from walls and structures that could catch fire, and also the roofs of patios and eaves that may be damaged by a sudden change in temperature after the chiminea has been extinguished. To prevent the chiminea smoking excessively it is recommended that only seasoned, kiln-dried logs are burned. Regular cleaning using a wire brush is also essential, as it will stop the accumulation of deposits that could cause the chiminea to burn and blacken. Shielding the chiminea from wind will also help to reduce the amount of smoke that it emits when it is burned.

Maintenance

Maintaining the equipment properly is essential to the longevity of any fire equipment. This will help to extend its lifespan and ensure it is operating safely. Chimineas can be fragile, and should be kept in a protected area where they can be properly cared for. Although a biggest chiminea made of clay might appear sturdy enough, it's still vulnerable to cracks and breakage from various sources. This is why it is crucial to examine your chiminea regularly for signs of wear and tear, and to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding how often it should be fired.

To keep your mexican chimney looking beautiful, you should clean it thoroughly with a mild detergent. This will remove any built-up dirt and grime, which can lead to discoloration and rust. A wire brush is used to scrub away the rusty particles that are floating around, and it is also recommended that you wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself. After cleaning, rinse the chiminea and allow it to dry completely. This will prevent any moisture causing corrosion and can greatly prolong the life of your chiminea.

After the chiminea has been cleaned and dried, you can lightly sand it down using fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and eliminate any rough areas that could catch on to embers when you build an fire. Sanding can also make the appear more appealing and even. Sanding can be followed by several coats of stove paint or grill paint to enhance the appearance and protect your chiminea from rust.

Keep your chiminea out of direct sunlight and winds as it can cause the paint to peel off and fade. You can easily fix the problem by using water-based emulsions paints or masonry spray. It is also crucial to only add a small amount of wood at a time, and create small fires for your chiminea so that you can "break it into" and prevent overheating.