How to Build a Big Clay Chiminea

Expert clay potters can create massive cylinders of the stuff with incredible skill. A large chiminea made of clay will have to be positioned permanently as moving it could damage the clay.

Find a spot that has a safe open space and put down a layer of play sand for children. Clay chimineas can crack when there are sudden changes in humidity and temperature.

Location

A large clay chiminea can be a great option to warm your garden or patio. These chimney-like pieces art are long and wide which makes them easy to set a good fire and shield the flames from winds. They come with an open chimney that directs smoke into the air, which means they don't produce too much heat and are safer than regular outdoor fireplaces. You can cook your food on them, but it's best to use a separate pan and grate to cook this.

You'll also find a wide selection of styles and types for these heaters. You can choose between clay and terracotta, however they can also be found in cast iron or steel. Cast iron is more suitable to cook with because it can handle higher temperatures. Another benefit of an iron chiminea is that it's simpler to move around than clay or terracotta chimineas.

The best spot to place your chiminea is in an open, clean space in which the chimney will be in a position to vent properly. Also, ensure that there aren't any trees or other items that could ignite nearby. You can also place your chiminea fireplaces on a brick or stone patio however, you'll need to ensure that it doesn't sit directly over any pavers, since this could cause cracks and breakage.

Fill the fireplace's bottom with sand. This will help to keep it from becoming too hot and also prevent any kindling or papers from falling in. Keep the sand and ashes inside the chiminea and wash the chimney every week to avoid ash buildup. If you're not going to use your chiminea for a while, be sure to store it and cover it with a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements.

If you own a large clay chiminea you can consider putting it on a higher base to keep the chimney from being too close to your house or other structures in your yard. It's a good idea also to keep it at least 10 to 20 feet away from your house. This is because it could be extremely hot and sparks could fly out of the chimney.

Size

The size of the chiminea that you choose will depend on where you intend to put it. If you intend to put a clay chiminea in the middle of a large area it is best to choose one that is able to accommodate multiple people and provide them with ample heat.

Alternatively, if you have a smaller space in which to locate the clay chiminea, it might be better to go for a smaller model that can comfortably hold just a few people and offer enough warmth for them to all be able to relax comfortably.

Clay chimineas are made of terracotta clay, however they can also be found in cast iron and other materials. Clay models tend to be more prone to damage than their metal counterparts, but proper care and use will make them last longer. Both types of chimineas must be placed on flat, stable surfaces to prevent them from falling over and damaging decking or other outdoor furniture.

Set your clay chiminea upon an inert base, like sand. This will help protect your decking and flooring from burns and scorches. Fill the bottom of the clay chiminea with volcanic rock or sand. This will keep the rock or sand from burning or becoming too hot to touch, and it will also help reduce heat stress on the clay during the first few times you use your chiminea.

It will also be easier to add or remove firewood if required and you can use it to balance your grill when cooking outside. When you have finished using your chiminea, it is crucial to allow it to cool down slowly and naturally by itself. If you try to speed up the cooling process can cause stress in the clay, which could cause cracks or breakage to the clay.

Don't pour water over your chiminea. It can cause damage or even ruin it. It is best to keep your chiminea clean by taking off any ash and rubbing with steel wool or a soft-bristled brush. It is recommended to use a mild soap and water to wash your clay chiminea. However, certain manufacturers recommend against using any acidic products on their products.

Style

Chimineas are beautiful additions to your backyard. Their chimneys direct smoke into the air, and their design lets them hold a large fire without worrying about rain or wind. You might want to consider a terracotta or clay chiminea to add warmth and ambience to your outdoor area. They're also perfect for cooking.

Clay chimineas can stand up to high temperatures and are constructed of fire-resistant materials. They are available in a variety of colors and sizes and some even feature decorative accents to add a touch of flair. They can be placed on any surface that is fire-safe, including concrete, stone and brick patios. They can be used to ignite wood, but not charcoal.

Like all ceramic and terra cotta products, clay chimineas should be kept out of liquids and water. When they're 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 terracotta for cooking, ensure that you go over the user's instructions carefully. Certain models require special care to prevent cracking. This can occur when the ceramic is exposed to sudden temperature fluctuations.

Before lighting the chiminea's fire it is recommended to first fill it up with sand to about halfway. This will keep the flames from reaching the sides of your unit and also protect your patio furniture. It's best to build an initial small fire. Clay chimineas warm up like giant radiators and a large fire can cause them break or explode.

It is also important to allow your chiminea's temperature to cool slowly. If you attempt to extinguish it using water or move it too fast it could put the clay under stress and cause it to break. This is called heat stress. To avoid this, place your chiminea in a stable area like a firepit and avoid placing it near any wooden structures that could catch fire.

Maintenance

Maintaining your clay chiminea correctly is crucial to ensure that it works safely and lasts an extended period of time. Regular care, including using an appropriate cover, selecting the correct fuel, regulating fire size, avoiding accelerants, and conducting regular inspections can significantly extend the life of your chiminea.

Clay chimineas can be susceptible to cracking and breakage particularly if they're used frequently or stored in a proper manner. If a chiminea made of clay breaks, you'll be able to repair it using simple materials and techniques. However when the chiminea is broken into more than two pieces it's time to consider replacing it altogether.

To avoid cracking, it's essential to place the chiminea on an unflammable surface. Also, use sand or lava rock in the bottom of the bowl to absorb the 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 buy an specialized clay chiminea cleaner to keep the ash clean between uses.

Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer when assembling your chiminea. Put it in a location that is safe, away from branches that hang overhanging wires and wooden fences. It is also important to make sure you use only natural wood for your fires and not coal or briquettes, since they can cause cracks in the clay chiminea.

If your chiminea develops a crack, you can often fix it with the help of some glue or putty. Make sure the chiminea is completely dry before you attempt to repair the crack. Sand the crack's surface using sandpaper of medium-grit until it is smooth. If your chiminea was painted, you'll have to remove it and sand down the clay beneath.

In the off-season, you can protect your chiminea by covering it with an insulated chiminea lid that is waterproof. This will prevent the clay from being damaged by moisture and will extend the life of the clay. It is important not to leave the chiminea out in the elements during the winter, as the changes in temperature can cause it to crack and break. By following these easy tips you can enjoy your chiminea year-round.