Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
Originally used as bread ovens Chimineas are a symbol of Mexico's rich heritage of culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetics, is timeless.
Chimineas made of clay are fired in kilns to eliminate organic material and seal the pores to reduce cracking. They can be used all year round however they shouldn't be exposed to the elements for too long.
Origins
Imagine a summer evening that is warm and sunny with your family and friends, enjoying delicious food in a beautiful outdoor space, warm by the gentle heat of your clay or Mexican chiminea. It's a picture reminiscent of the Mexican origins of this type of outdoor fire pit.
The terracotta stoves of the past were designed to function as radiant heaters as well as ovens. They helped tribesmen survive the harsh winter nights in their homes. Their distinctive shape stems from their utilitarian qualities which emphasized practicality and importance of living in a communal setting.
These stoves were initially constructed of natural terra-cotta clay which was dried and wood-fired in kilns. Chimineas made from clay are more rustic in appearance and were not glazed to protect the surface. Modern manufacturers produce chimineas made of metals, such as cast iron, aluminum and brass. These materials provide enhanced durability and resistance to weather which addresses one of the main limitations of the clay design.
The distinctive design of the chiminea was inspired by a potbellied bottom that rises to an extended fireplace. This design is ideal for containing a fire while sending smoke upwards. This helps reduce air intake and enhances heat retention.
Chimineas were used to cook, heating and providing light for the tribal people of Mexico. Today, we can appreciate these beautiful qualities as well as the warm comfort they offer on chilly autumn evenings and even in the chilly winter sun.
No matter if your chiminea's an authentic Mexican piece or a more modern version, Gardeco has a choice of different styles to match your garden and décor. We have a variety of sizes, ranging from small to extra-large. We also sell clay chimineas that have decor that is either moulded or engraving into the body of the product.
Our range of terracotta Chimineas and Mexican Chimineas are made by artisans right in the middle of the country. The process of making them can cause minor variations in shape and colour. It is possible to repaint your chiminea with an emulsion paint that is water-based if it starts to discolour. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and care tips before using your new chiminea for the first time.
Design
Chimineas are not only useful, but they also provide a rustic and authentic feel to the space. They come in various materials and designs, and they can be matched with any patio furniture. They can be used as a focal point or they can blend seamlessly with your landscaping.
The clay chimenea was created to serve both practical and historical reasons. Its chimney-like neck was tall and directed smoke away from the users and its rounded rounded body radiated warmth. It was also used to socialize and tell stories, giving it a significant role in Mexican and Central American cultures.
Traditionally, chimineas were made by local artisans using moist clay, which was collected directly from the ground. The raw material was formed into its final form prior to being dried in a kiln. Clay chimeneas are very labor-intensive to create, especially the larger ones. Typically potters would coil long snakes of clay into a cylindrical shape, and then smooth the clay together to form the
chiminea large's bowl as well as neck. The clay's rim was often decorated with carvings or patterns.
A modern chiminea is typically constructed from
Metal chimineas, such as cast iron or aluminum. The introduction of
metal chimineas was a significant step forward because they are able to withstand high temperatures and moisture without cracking. This change allowed chimineas be used in many different climates.
While there are several companies that make clay and terracotta chimineas most chimineas now are constructed from metal. The advantages of
metal chimineas include its capability to withstand higher temperatures as well as the fact that it is able to be cleaned more easily. These factors have made
metal chimineas more popular than clay counterparts.
No matter which type of chiminea that you select it's important to place it in the right spot. It should be placed in a level space and away from any flammable objects, such as grass, trees, or other buildings. The chiminea should also be placed on a brick, concrete or stone patio and never on a wooden deck. It's also a good idea to put 50mm of sand or Gardeco lava stones underneath the chiminea to protect it from direct heat and keep the most hot part of the fire away from the clay.
Materials
Kiln-fired clay chimineas and terracotta chimineas are still being manufactured by small factories. The temperatures can reach up to 1000 degrees Celsius. Once they are cooled and cured, the chimineas are assembled. Some are glazed while others are left unglazed. These chimineas provide an Mexican feeling in a garden.
Chimineas can be hand painted in a variety colours and patterns to suit different styles. The paint finish will discolour over time and because of the heat generated by the fire, so it is best to re-paint using a water-based acrylic emulsion.
Although originally designed as essential elements of heating and cooking for city-dwelling Mexicans Chimineas have also embodied an appreciation for cultural heritage through time adapting to various needs. These distinctive structures weren't only used by the indigenous peoples of Mexico as bread ovens as well as played a crucial role in repelling bugs and promoting social gatherings.
The unique design of the chiminea's chiminea with its broad base and narrow chimney spout allow maximum air flow into the structure from the bottom, which reduces the intake of smoke. It also helps to keep the heat within the chiminea's belly, making it perfect for cooking.
Today, chimineas can be found in a variety of materials including terracotta clay, cast iron and even aluminum. Terracotta Chimineas have a classic Mexican look. They are susceptible to cracking when under pressure and should only be put on flat surfaces that are safe from fire. Cast iron and aluminum chimineas aren't as susceptible to damage, while remaining stylish and sturdy.
To ensure that the chiminea will last as long as you can, keep it in a place that is well ventilated and protected from rain and wind. It should be placed away from any structures or walls that could catch fire, and also any eaves and patio roofs that may be damaged by a sudden change in temperatures when the chiminea has been put out. To prevent the chiminea smoking excessively it is recommended that only seasoned, kiln-dried logs are burned. It is important to regularly clean the chiminea using a wirebrush, since this will help prevent the build-up of deposits that could be burned and turn black. Shielding the chiminea from wind will also help to reduce the amount of smoke it releases as it burns.
Maintenance
Maintaining the equipment properly is essential to the longevity of any fire apparatus. This will help prolong its life and ensure that it functions safely. Chimineas are quite fragile and should always be kept in a protected area in an area that is well maintained. While a chiminea made from clay may seem solid enough, it is still vulnerable to cracks and breaking from a variety of sources.