9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Mexican Chimineas
Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
Chimineas, which were originally used as ovens for baking, are a reflection of Mexico's rich culture. The simple design, blending practicality with aesthetic simplicity, is timeless.
Clay chimineas are fired in kilns to remove organic matter and close the pores to prevent 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 friends and family, enjoying delicious food in an outdoor space, surrounded by the gentle heat of your clay or Mexican chiminea. It's a picture like the Mexican origins of this kind of outdoor firepit.
These traditional terracotta stoves were designed to function as radiant heaters and ovens. They were used to help tribesmen endure the harsh winter nights in their home. Their distinctive shape was influenced by their utilitarian principles that emphasised practicality and shared living.
The stoves were originally made from natural terra-cotta clay, which was dried and wood-fired in kilns. Chimineas made from clay have a more rustic appearance and were not coated to protect the surface. Modern manufacturers make chimineas out of metals such as cast iron, aluminum and brass. These materials are more robust and resistant to weathering which is one of the main drawbacks of the clay design.
The unique design of the chiminea was created by a potbellied bottom that rises up to create an elongated fireplace. This design is perfect for containing a fire while directing smoke upwards. This helps reduce the intake of air and increases heat retention.
Mexican tribes used chimineas for lighting, heating and cooking. Today we can enjoy them for their beauty and also for the warmth they provide on cold autumn evenings, and even in chilly winter sun.
No matter if your chiminea's an authentic Mexican piece or a more modern one, Gardeco has a choice of styles that will suit your garden and décor. We carry a wide selection of sizes, from small and medium to large and Jumbo. We also offer clay chimineas sale with decor which can be moulded or inscribed into the body of the item.
Our range of terracotta-based Chimineas and Mexican Chimineas is made by artisans from the heart of the country. The process of making them can cause minor variations in colour and shape. If your chiminea starts to fade, you can always repaint it using an emulsion water-based paint. It is crucial to read the instructions of the manufacturer and care guidelines prior to using your new chiminea for the first time.
Design
Chimineas aren't just functional but they also add an authentic and rustic feel to the space. They are available in a variety of styles and materials and can be matched to any patio furniture. They can be used as a focal point, or they can blend in seamlessly with your landscaping.
The clay chimenea was designed to be practical as well as for cultural reasons. Its chimney-like neck was tall and directed smoke away from users, while its rounded body exuded heat. It was also used to socialize and tell stories, playing an important place in Mexican and Central American cultures.
Traditionally, chimineas were made by local artisans from wet clay that was taken directly from the ground. The raw material was transformed into its final form before being dried by kiln. The process of making the clay chimenea was labor-intensive, particularly for the huge ones. Typically potters would coil long snakes of clay into a cylinder shape, and then smooth the clay together and create the chiminea's bowl and neck. The rim of the clay was often decorated with carvings and patterns.
Modern chimineas are usually constructed of metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. The introduction of metal chimineas was a significant evolutionary step since they can stand up to extreme temperatures and humidity without cracking. This change allowed chimineas to be used in a wide range of climates.
Although there are still several companies that manufacture clay and terracotta-based chimineas the majority of chimineas today are made from metal. metal chiminea chimineas last longer and easier to clean. These factors have made chimineas from metal more popular than their clay counterparts.
No matter what type of chiminea you choose, it is important that it be placed in the right spot. It should be set in a level area far from anything that could ignite like trees, grass or other buildings. The chiminea should be placed on a concrete, brick, or stone patio and never on a wooden deck. It's also an excellent idea to put 50mm of sand or Gardeco lava stones underneath the chiminea to shield it from direct heat and keep the hottest part of the fire away from the clay.
Materials
Traditional clay and terracotta chimineas which are still manufactured by small factories today, are kiln fired to temperatures up to 1000c. After they have been cooled and dried the chimineas are then assembled. Some are glazed, while others are left unglazed. These chimineas offer a Mexican feel in a garden.
Chimineas can be hand painted in a variety colours and patterns to match different styles. The paint finish will fade due to time and temperature of the fire, so it's best to re-paint with an emulsion based on water.
In the beginning, they were designed to provide heating and cooking facilities for Mexicans living in towns, chimineas over the years have transformed into a cultural symbol, adapting their functions to accommodate a variety of needs. In addition to serving as bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico They also played a vital role in repelling insects as well as encouraging social gatherings.
The unique design of a chiminea, featuring a wide base and a narrow chimney spout, allows the most air to be drawn into the bottom of the structure, which reduces smoke inhalation. It also helps to keep the heat inside the chiminea's belly, making it ideal for cooking.
Today, chimineas can be found in various materials, including cast iron, terracotta clay and even aluminium. Terracotta chimineas offer a classic Mexican look. However, they are susceptible to crack under pressure and should only be used on a flat, fire-safe surface. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less susceptible to cracking, and are stylish and sturdy.
To make sure the chiminea will last as long as you can, keep it in a place that is well ventilated and shielded from rain and wind. It should be kept away from any walls or structures that could catch fire as well as patio roofs or eaves that might be damaged by the sudden change in temperature that occurs when the chiminea's flame is extinguished. To stop the chiminea from burning too much, it's recommended that leaves are not burned and only seasoned, kiln dried logs are burned. It is essential to regularly clean the chiminea using a wirebrush, since this will avoid deposits that can cause blackening and burning. The chiminea being protected from wind can also help reduce the amount of smoke that it emits as it is burned.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is crucial to the longevity of any fire equipment. This can extend its lifespan and also ensure that it operates safely. Chimineas can be quite fragile and should always be kept in a protected area in a place where they can be properly tended. Although a chiminea made from clay appears sturdy but it is still susceptible to cracks and break due to various causes. This is why it is essential to check your chiminea frequently for signs of wear and tear and also to follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding how often it should be fired.
To keep your mexican chimney looking great it is essential to clean it thoroughly with mild detergent. This will eliminate any built-up dirt and grime that can lead to discoloration and corrosion. To get rid of loose rust particles you should employ a wire brush. It is recommended that gloves and goggles be used to protect. After scrubbing your chiminea clean then rinse it and allow it to dry completely. This will prevent any moisture which causes corrosion, and can prolong the life of your chiminea.
After your chiminea is cleaned and dried, lightly sand it using fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and remove any rough areas which could be caught on embers when you build a fire. Sanding can also make the appear more attractive and even. In the end, sanding could be followed by a series of coats of grill or stove paint that will enhance the appearance of your chiminea and protect it from corrosion.
It is also recommended that you keep your chiminea away from direct sunlight and wind because this could cause the paint to peel and fade. If this occurs, you can touch up the affected areas using water-based emulsion paints or masonry spray, and it's generally simple to do. It is also important to only build small fires, and to add small amounts of wood at a time to your chiminea in order to get it "broken in" and to prevent overheating.