Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
The first time they were used was as a bread oven Chimineas represent Mexico's rich heritage of culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetic simplicity, is timeless.
Clay chimineas are fired in kilns to remove organic matter and close the pores to prevent cracking. They are made to be outdoors all year round, but should be protected from long-term exposure to the elements.
Origins
Imagine a warm, sunny evening in the summer with friends and family eating delicious food outside and being warm by your Mexican or clay chiminea. This scene is reminiscent to the Mexican origins of this type of outdoor fireplace.
The terracotta stoves of the past were made to be both radiant heaters as well as ovens. They were used to help tribesmen endure the harsh winter nights in their homes. 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 constructed from natural terra-cotta clay which was dried before being fired wood in kilns. Chimineas made of clay are more rustic and do not have an exterior that is glazed to protect them. Modern manufacturers now produce chimineas made of metals like brass, cast iron and aluminum. These materials offer enhanced durability and resistance to weather, addressing one of the major weaknesses of the clay design.
The chiminea's distinctive design was inspired by the idea of a pot-bellied foundation that rises into an long chimney. This shape is an ideal way to contain fire while also directing smoke upwards, which reduces the risk of inhaling air and increases heat retention.
Chimineas were a popular method of lighting, heating and cooking. We can still enjoy their beauty and the warmth they bring in the cold winter evenings or even in the cold winter sun.
Gardeco has a range of styles that are suitable for your garden. We have a variety of sizes, ranging from small to extra-large. We also offer clay chimineas decorated with decorations that can be moulded, or engraving into the body of the product.
Our range of terracotta chimineas and Mexican Chimineas are made by artisans from the center of the country. The colours and shapes can vary slightly due to the nature of the manufacturing process. If your chiminea begins to fade, you can always repaint it using an water-based emulsion. It is important to read the instructions of the manufacturer and tips for care before using your new chiminea the first time.
Design
Chimineas not only add warmth and character to any space They are also useful. They come in different materials and designs and can be matched with any furniture for your patio. They can be used as a focal point or they can blend in seamlessly with your landscaping.
The traditional chimenea made of clay, was designed with both practical and historical significance in mind. The tall chimney-like neck directed smoke away from the users, while its rounded body exuded heat. It was also used for socializing and telling stories, which played an important place in Mexican and Central American cultures.
Traditional chimineas are made by local artisans using wet clay that is taken directly from the earth. The raw material was transformed into its final form before being kiln-dried. Clay chimeneas can be extremely labor-intensive to make, especially big ones. The chiminea's neck as well as the bowl are made by smoothing long snakes of clay rolled. The rim of the clay was usually decorated with patterns or carvings.
Modern chimineas are generally constructed of metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Metal chimineas were an important improvement because they could stand up to high temperatures and humidity without cracking. This allowed chimineas be used in a wide range of climates.
Metal Chimineas are most commonly used but there are certain companies that make clay and terracotta ones. Metal chimineas are more durable and easier to clean. These advantages have made chimineas made of metal more popular than their clay counterparts.
It doesn't matter what kind of chiminea you choose, it is important to place it in the right spot. It should be placed in a leveled area and away from any fire-prone objects like trees, grass or other structures. The chiminea should be placed on a concrete patio, brick patio or stone terrace and never on a deck made of wood. It's a good idea also to put 50mm of sand or Gardeco Lava Stones beneath the chiminea. This will protect it from direct heat.
Materials
Kiln-fired terracotta and clay chimineas are still being manufactured by small-scale factories. The temperatures can reach up to 1000c. After cooling and dried, the chimineas may be assembled. Some are glazed, while others remain unglazed. Chimineas can give a Mexican feel in a garden.
Chimineas can be hand painted in a variety colours and patterns to suit different styles. The paint finish can fade as time passes and due to the heat of the flame, so it is recommended to paint again using an acrylic emulsion that is water-based.
While originally intended to be essential elements of heating and cooking for urban Mexicans, chimineas have embodied the sense of heritage through time, adapting to diverse needs. These distinctive structures were not solely used by indigenous people of Mexico as bread ovens as well as played an important function in repelling insects and encouraging social gatherings.
The unique design of a chiminea featuring a wide base and narrow chimney spout, allows the most air to be drawn in at the bottom of the structure, minimizing smoke inhalation. It also helps keep the heat inside the chiminea. This makes it ideal to cook over.
Today, chimineas can be found in various materials, including cast iron, terracotta clay and even aluminium. Terracotta Chimineas are the most commonly used, and offer the traditional Mexican style. They are prone cracking when under pressure, and should be placed on a flat surface that is fire-safe. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less susceptible to damage, while remaining elegant and sturdy.
To ensure that the chiminea will last as long as you can, keep it in an area that is well-ventilated and protected from rain and wind. It should be kept away from walls and structures that could catch fire, as well as any eaves and patio roofs which could be damaged by a sudden shift in temperature after the chiminea has been put out. To ensure that the chiminea does not smoke excessively it is recommended that only seasoned, kiln-dried logs are burned. Regular cleaning using a wire brush is also crucial, as it helps prevent build up of deposits that are liable to burn and blacken. Sheltering the chiminea from the winds will also help reduce the amount of smoke it produces as it burns.
Maintenance
The proper maintenance is vital to the longevity of any fire equipment. This can help prolong its lifespan and ensure that it operates safely. Chimineas are quite fragile and should always be kept outside in a place where they can be properly taken care of. Even if a chiminea made of clay appears to be sturdy but it is still susceptible to cracks and break due to various causes. This is why it's essential to check your chiminea regularly for signs of wear and tear, and also to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on the frequency at which it should be fired.
The first step to ensure that your mexican chiminea stays looking its best is to wash it thoroughly with a mild detergent solution. This will remove any built-up dirt and grime, which can lead to discoloration and rust. A wire brush should be used to remove the rusty particles that are floating around, and it is recommended that you wear gloves and safety glasses for safety reasons. After scrubbing your chiminea clean, rinse it and allow it to dry completely. This will prevent any water from causing corrosion and can significantly prolong the life of your chiminea.
After the chiminea has been cleaned and dried, you can lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth out the surface and remove any rough areas that could attract embers if you decide to build a fire. Sanding can also help to make the surface more even and attractive. The sanding process can be followed by a series of coats of stove or grill paint, which will improve the appearance of your chiminea as well as guard it from corrosion.
Keep your chiminea out of direct sunlight and winds as it can cause the paint to peel and fade. You can fix the problem by using water-based emulsions or paints or masonry spray. It is also essential to only add a few pieces of wood at a given time and create small fires for your chiminea in order to "break it into" and avoid overheating.