How to Build a Big Clay ChimineaClay potters can throw massive cylinders using incredible skill. A large chiminea made of clay will have to be positioned permanently because moving it could damage the clay.
Choose a place that has a safe open space and lay down a layer of play sand for children. Chimineas made of clay can break in the event of sudden changes of temperature or humidity.
Location
If you're looking for a method to warm up your patio or garden, a big clay chiminea is a great alternative. These chimney-like pieces of fire art are long and wide, making them easy to set a good flame and shield the flames from winds. They come with a chimney that directs smoke into the air, which means they don't generate too much heat and are safer than traditional outdoor fireplaces. You can cook your food on them, but it's best to use a separate pan and grate to cook this.
They are available in various designs and materials. You can pick from clay and terracotta, but they can also be found in cast iron or steel. Cast iron is a better choice for cooking as it can handle higher temperatures. The other advantage to a metal chiminea is that it's much easier to move around than clay or terracotta chimineas.
The best place to put your chiminea in is an open, clear area where the chimney can vent correctly. Also, you should make sure that there aren't any trees, or other dangerous objects around. You can also place the chiminea directly on the patio of a stone or brick patio. However, you should make sure it does not rest directly on pavers since this could cause them to crack.
Fill the bottom of your fireplace with sand. This will help to keep it from becoming too hot, and will also stop any papers or kindling from falling into. Keep the sand and ashes in the chiminea and clean the chimney every week to avoid ash buildup. If you are not going to use your chiminea for a while, be sure you cover it with a weatherproof cover and store it.
Consider placing your clay chimney on a raised platform to keep the chimney away from your home or other structures in your yard. It is also a good idea to keep it 10 to 20 feet from your home, since it can get quite hot when you use it and sparks could fly out of the chimney.
Size
The size of your chiminea will depend on the space you'll be placing it. If you have a large space in which to put the clay chiminea, it might be advisable to select a larger one that will easily accommodate several people and provide plenty of heat for them enjoy.
If you have a small space to place the chiminea made from clay in it is best to select a model which is smaller and can accommodate up to a couple of people comfortably. It will also provide enough heat for them to all be able to sit comfortably.
The chimineas of clay are traditionally made from terracotta, but they are also available in other materials, too. Clay models are more susceptible to damage than counterparts made of metal. However, proper care and maintenance will help them last longer. Both types of chimineas must be placed on stable, flat surfaces to avoid them falling over and damaging decking or other outdoor furniture.
Place your clay chiminea on an unflammable base like sand. This will shield your deck and flooring from burning and scorching. Fill the clay chiminea's bottom with volcanic rock or sand. This will prevent the sand and rocks from burning or getting too hot to touch. It also reduces the stress on the clay the first few times that you use your chiminea.
The sand or rock will also make it easier to add and take away firewood at any time, and it will give you a smooth place to rest your grill on when cooking outdoors. When you are done using your chiminea it is crucial to allow it to cool down slowly and naturally by itself. Attempting to speed the cooling process could cause stress that could cause cracks or breakage to the clay.
Do not sprinkle water on your chiminea as this could cause damage or destroy it. It is better to clean your chiminea regularly by taking off any ash and rubbing with steel wool or a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can clean your clay chiminea with mild soap and warm water however, some manufacturers advise against using anything acidic.
Style
Chimineas are a beautiful addition 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 wind or rain. If you're looking to bring warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space, then you might think about a terracotta or clay chimney. They are also ideal for cooking.
Clay chimineas can withstand high temperatures and are constructed of fire-resistant materials. They are available in various sizes and colors, and a few have decorative accents for an added look. They can be placed on any surface that is fire-safe including concrete, stone, and brick patios. They can be used to ignite wood or other fuels, but it is best to avoid using them with charcoal.
Clay chimineas, like most ceramics and terracotta products, should be kept away from water and other liquids. You can store them in a closed area or in a covered area, to keep moisture away. Read the instructions carefully if you intend to use your chiminea for a cooking device. Certain models require extra care to avoid cracks that can occur when the clay is exposed to sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fill the chiminea up with sand until it's halfway full. This will stop the flames from extending into the sides of the unit and protect your patio furniture. It is best to start with a small fire. Chimineas made of clay heat up like huge radiators. A large clay chiminea fire could cause them to crack or explode.
It's also important to let your chiminea cool slowly. If you attempt to put it out with water or move it too quickly it could put the clay under stress and cause it to break. This is known as heat stress. To prevent this from happening, put your chiminea inside a stable location like an outdoor fire pit, and do not set it near any wooden structures that could catch fire.
Maintenance
Maintaining your clay chiminea in a proper manner is essential to ensure it operates safely and lasts an extended period of time. Regular care, including the use of a protective cover, choosing the right fuel, managing the size of the fire, avoiding accelerants, and performing routine inspections can greatly extend the lifespan of your chiminea.
Clay chimineas may crack and break, especially when they are not stored or used properly. If a chiminea made of clay breaks, you'll be able to repair it with a few methods and materials. If the chiminea has been broken into more than two pieces, it is recommended to replace it.
To prevent cracking it is essential to place the chiminea terracotta on a non-flammable surface and to use lava rock or sand in the bottom of the bowl to absorb the heat of the flames. It's a good idea also to clean the ashes and rocks after each use since they will accumulate over time. You can also buy a clay chiminea cleaning product to keep the ash free in between use.
Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer when building your chiminea. Put it in a location that is safe away from branches, wires and wooden fences. It is also crucial to make sure you use only natural wood for fires and not briquettes or coal, as they can crack the clay chiminea.
You can repair a cracked chiminea using a bit of glue or putty. Before attempting to mend cracks, ensure that the chiminea is dry. Sand the surface of the crack using medium grit sandpaper until it feels smooth. If your chiminea is painted, you'll have to take it off and sand down the bare clay underneath.
In the off-season, it is possible to protect your Chiminea by covering it in an insulated chiminea lid that is waterproof. This will prevent moisture from damaging the clay, and prolong its lifespan. It is a good idea to not leave your chiminea outside during the cold weather during the winter. The temperature changes could cause cracks or breaks to the chiminea. If you follow these simple tips you will be able to enjoy your chiminea throughout the year.