• 목록
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit

Originally used as a bread oven, chimineas reflect Mexico's rich culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetic simplicity, is timeless.

Chimineas of clay are fired in kilns to eliminate organic matter and close the pores to prevent cracking. They are made to be outdoors all year round, but must be protected from prolonged exposure to the elements.

Origins

Imagine a balmy evening in the summer with your loved ones and family eating delicious food outdoors and being warm by your Mexican or clay chiminea. This scene is reminiscent of the Mexican origins for this type of outdoor fireplace.

The traditional terra-cotta stoves were designed to function as both radiant heaters and ovens, aiding tribesmen during the dark winter nights of their home country. Their distinctive shape stems from their utilitarian qualities, emphasising practicality and the importance of living in a communal setting.

Originally, these stoves were created out of natural terracotta clay which was dried in kilns and then wood-fired. Clay chimineas have a more rustic look and were not coated to protect the surface. Modern manufacturers create chimineas made of metals like cast iron, aluminum and brass. These materials offer enhanced durability and resistance to weather and address one of the biggest weaknesses of the clay design.

The distinctive design of the chiminea was inspired by a potbellied bottom which rises to form an extended fireplace. This shape is perfect for containing a fire while directing smoke upwards. This reduces the intake of air and increases heat retention.

Chimineas were used for cooking for heating, cooking and also to provide light for the tribal people of Mexico. Today we can enjoy them for their aesthetic qualities and the warmth they provide on chilly autumn evenings and even in brisk winter sunshine.

Gardeco offers a variety of styles that are suitable for your garden. We have a variety of sizes, ranging from small and medium, to extra-large and large clay chiminea. We also carry clay chimineas that are decorated with either engraving or a moulded design.

Our range of terracotta chimineas and Mexican Chimineas is made by artisans in the heart of Mexico. The process of manufacturing can result in small variations in shape and colour. It is possible to repaint your chiminea using an emulsion paint that's water-based if it begins to fade. Before you begin using your new chiminea it is essential to read all instructions and care tips provided by the manufacturer.

Design

Chimineas aren't just useful, but they also provide an authentic and rustic look to the space. They are available in a variety of styles and materials and can be paired with any furniture for your patio. They can be used as a focal point, or they can blend in seamlessly with your landscape.

The clay chimenea was designed for both practical and cultural reasons. The tall, chimney-like neck directed the smoke away from its users, and its rounded, round body radiates warmth. It was also used to socialize and tell stories, which played a significant role in Mexican and Central American cultures.

Traditional chimineas sale are made by local artisans using wet clay that is gathered directly from the earth. This raw material was then formed into its final form before being kiln-dried. The process of creating a clay chimenea was extremely labor-intensive, particularly for the large sized ones. Typically potters would coil long snakes of clay into a cylinder shape, and then smooth the big clay chiminea together, creating the chiminea's bowl as well as neck. The clay's rim was often decorated with patterns or carvings.

A modern chiminea is usually made of metal such as cast iron or aluminum. The introduction of metal chimineas was an important evolutionary step because they can withstand high temperatures and moisture without cracking. This modification allowed chimineas be used in a vast range of climates.

Metal Chimineas are the most popular, although there are still certain companies that make big clay chiminea and terracotta ones. The advantages of using a metal chiminea include its capability to withstand higher temperatures, as well as the fact that it can be cleaned more easily. These factors have made metal chimineas more popular than clay counterparts.

It doesn't matter what kind of chiminea you choose, it is important to place it in the right spot. It must be placed in a leveled area and away from any flammable items such as trees, grass or other structures. The chiminea should also be set on a brick, concrete or stone patio and not on a wooden deck. It's also recommended to place 50mm of sand or Gardeco lava stones beneath the top rated chiminea to protect it from direct heat and to keep the most hot part of the fire from the clay.

Materials

Kiln-fired clay chimineas and terracotta are still being manufactured by small factories. The temperatures can go up to 1000 degrees Celsius. After they have been cooled and dried the chimineas are then assembled. Some are coated with glazes, while others are unglazed. Chimineas can give the Mexican experience in the garden.

Chimineas can be painted by hand in a variety colours and patterns to suit different styles. The paint finish will fade as time passes and also with the heat from the flame, so 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 over time have become a cultural symbol, adapting their function to accommodate a variety of needs. Apart from serving as bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico These distinctive structures also played a crucial function in repelling insects and promoting social gatherings.

The unique design of the chiminea, with its broad base and narrow chimney spout allow the most air to be drawn into the structure at the bottom, reducing smoke intake. It also helps retain the heat inside the chiminea's belly. This makes it perfect for cooking.

Presently, chimineas can be found in a wide range of materials, including cast iron, terracotta and even aluminum. Terracotta chimineas are the most popular choice, providing the traditional Mexican style. 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 risk of damage but are still attractive and sturdy.

To ensure that the chiminea lasts for as long as it can, it should always be kept in a well-ventilated area and protected from rain and wind. It should be placed away from any walls or structures which could catch alight, as well as any eaves or patio roofs which may be damaged by the sudden shift in temperature that occurs when the chiminea is completely extinguished. To stop the chiminea from smoking too much, it is recommended that leaves are not burned and only dry, seasoned logs be burned. It is crucial to clean the chiminea frequently by using a wirebrush as this will help prevent the build-up of deposits that can cause blackening and burning. The chiminea can be shielded from wind to decrease the amount of smoke it emits.

Maintenance

As with any fire equipment it is important to maintain it properly to ensure the longevity of your chiminea. This will help to extend its lifespan and ensure it operates safely. Chimineas are fragile and should be kept outside where they can be cared for. Even though a clay chiminea appears sturdy, it can still crack and break from various sources. It is crucial to examine your chiminea for signs of wear, and to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how often you should use it.

To keep your mexican chimney looking great, you should clean it thoroughly with mild detergent. This will eliminate any dirt or grime that could cause discoloration or corrosion. A wire brush is used to remove loose rust particles, and it is recommended that you wear gloves and safety glasses for safety reasons. After you have scrubbed, wash the chiminea, and allow it to dry completely. This will stop any water from causing corrosion and can also extend the life of your chiminea.

After your chiminea is cleaned and dried, lightly sand it down using fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and remove any rough areas which could be caught on the embers as you build an open flame. The sanding can also help to make the surface more even and attractive. Finally, the sanding can be followed by a series of coats of stove or grill paint, which will enhance the appearance of your chiminea as well as guard it from corrosion.

It is also recommended to keep your chiminea from direct sunlight and wind, as this can cause the paint to fade and peel. If this happens, you can touch up the areas affected with water-based emulsion paints or masonry sprays and it's generally simple to do. It is also important to only add a small amount of wood at a given time and create small fires for your chiminea to "break it into" and prevent overheating.