• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit

Originally designed to be a bread oven Chimineas are a symbol of Mexico's rich culture. The simple design, blending practicality with aesthetic simplicity is timeless.

Chimineas of clay can be fired in kilns which remove organic matter from the clay and seals the pores to prevent cracking. They are built to live outdoors all year round, but should be protected from prolonged exposure to the elements.

Origins

Imagine a warm summer evening with friends and family, enjoying delicious food in an outdoor space, surrounded by the gentle heat from your clay or Mexican chiminea. It's a picture reminiscent of the Mexican roots of this type of outdoor fire pit.

The traditional terra-cotta stoves were designed to function as radiant heaters and ovens, aiding tribesmen during the cold desert nights of their home. Their distinctive shape was influenced from their utilitarian values which focused on practicality and social living.

Originally, these stoves were built out of natural terracotta clay which was dried in kilns and then wood-fired. Clay chimineas are more rustic and don't have a the protection of a glazed surface. them. Modern manufacturers produce chimineas made of metals, such as aluminum, cast iron and brass. These materials provide enhanced weather resistance and durability and address one of the major weaknesses of the clay design.

The distinctive design of the chiminea was influenced by a pot-bellied bottom that rises up to create an long fireplace. This design is a great method of containing the flame while directing the smoke upwards, which reduces the possibility of air inhalation and enhances heat retention.

Chimineas were utilized for cooking as well as heating and lighting for the tribal people of Mexico. We still appreciate their design and the warmth they provide in the cold winter evenings, or even in the brisk winter sun.

Whether your chiminea is an authentic Mexican piece or a modernized version, Gardeco has a choice of different styles to suit your garden and décor. We have a variety of sizes, ranging from small chiminea and medium to extra-large and Jumbo. We also carry clay chimineas that have been decorated with either an engraved or moulded design.

Our range of terracotta chimineas and Mexican Chimineas (Onthelive.Co.Kr) is made by artisans from the heartland of the country. The manufacturing process can cause minor variations in shape and colour. You can always re-paint your chiminea using an emulsion paint that's water-based if it begins to turn discoloured. Before you use your new chiminea it is crucial to follow all instructions and care tips provided by the manufacturer.

Design

Chimineas are not only useful, but they also provide a rustic and authentic feel to the space. They come in various materials and designs and can be matched to any patio furniture. They can be a focal point or blend in seamlessly with the landscape.

The traditional chimenea made of Clay Chiminea large, was designed with both practical and historical significance in mind. Its chimney-like neck was tall and directed the smoke away from the users and its rounded round body radiates warmth. It also served as a place for storytelling and socializing which played a crucial function in Mexican and Central American culture.

Traditionally, chimineas were crafted by local artisans using moist clay that was taken directly from the ground. The raw material was molded to its final shape before being dried in a kiln. The process of making the clay chimenea was very labor-intensive, particularly for the huge ones. Typically potters would coil long snakes of clay into a circular shape and then smooth the clay to form the chiminea's bowl and neck. The rim of the clay was often decorated with patterns and carvings.

Modern chimineas are generally constructed of metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. The introduction of chimineas made from metal was an important evolutionary step because they can stand up to extreme temperatures and humidity without cracking. This modification allowed chimineas be used in a vast range of climates.

Metal chimineas are the most common but there are certain companies that make clay and terracotta chimineas. Metal chimineas are more durable and easier to clean. Metal chimineas are much more popular than clay chimineas since they can endure higher temperatures and be cleaned more easily.

No matter what type of chiminea you choose it is essential that it be placed in the correct place. It must be placed in a level area and away from anything that could ignite like grass, trees or other structures. The chiminea must be placed on a brick, concrete, patio or stone terrace and should not be placed on a deck made of wood. It's a good idea also to place 50mm of sand, or Gardeco Lava Stones under the chiminea outdoor fireplace. This will protect it from direct heat.

Materials

Traditional chimineas of terracotta and clay, which are still made by small factories today, are fired to temperatures of up to 1000c. After they have cooled and dried, the chimineas can be put together. Some are glazed, while others remain unglazed. These chimineas are a popular choice as they offer an authentic Mexican style to your garden.

Chimineas are generally hand-painted with various colours and designs to suit the various styles. The paint finish will fade over time and with the heat from the fire, so it is recommended to paint again using an acrylic emulsion based on water.

The original purpose was 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. These distinctive structures weren't only used by the indigenous peoples of Mexico as bread ovens, but also played a significant function in repelling insects and promoting social gatherings.

The unique design of a chiminea, having a wide base and narrow chimney spout, allows for the most air to be drawn into the bottom of the structure, which reduces smoke inhalation. It also helps retain heat in the chiminea's belly. This makes it perfect for cooking.

Chimineas are found in a variety of materials including terracotta clay, cast iron and even aluminium. Terracotta Chimineas have a classic Mexican appearance. They are prone to cracking under pressure, and should only be put on a flat surface that is fire-safe. Cast iron and aluminum chimineas aren't as susceptible to cracking and damage, but they are elegant and durable.

To ensure that the chiminea will last for as long as is possible, it should always be placed in a well-ventilated location and shielded from rain and wind. It should be kept away from any structures or walls that could catch fire, and also the roofs of patios and eaves that could be damaged by a sudden shift in temperatures when the top rated chiminea is extinguished. To stop the chiminea from burning too much, it is advised to keep the leaves away and only well-seasoned, kiln-dried logs be burned. Regular cleaning with a wire brush is essential, as it will keep deposits from accumulating that are liable to burn and blacken. The chiminea can be shielded from the wind to reduce the amount of smoke it produces.

Maintenance

As with any fire equipment it is important to maintain it properly to ensuring the longevity of your Chiminea. This will extend its lifespan and ensure that it works safely. Chimineas are quite fragile and should always be kept outside in a place where they can be properly maintained. Although a chiminea made from clay appears sturdy however, it could still crack and break from various sources. It is crucial to examine your chiminea for signs wear and follow the manufacturer's instructions on how often you should fire it.

To keep your Mexican chimney looking good it is essential to clean it thoroughly using a mild detergent. This will eliminate any built-up dirt and grime, which can lead to discoloration and rust. A wire brush should be used to scrub away loose rust particles, and it is recommended you wear gloves and safety glasses for safety purposes. After scrubbing your chiminea clean wash it off and allow it to dry completely. This will stop any moisture from causing corrosion, and it can greatly prolong the lifespan of your chiminea.

After your chiminea is cleaned and dried, it needs to be lightly sanded with fine grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and eliminate any rough spots which could be caught on embers when you build an open flame. Sanding can also make the surface look more attractive and even. In the end, sanding could be followed by a series of coats of stove or grill paint that will enhance the appearance of your chiminea and protect it from corrosion.

Keep your chiminea from direct sunlight and wind, as it can cause paint to peel and fade. If this happens it is possible to touch up the affected areas with water-based emulsion paints or masonry spray, and it is generally easy to do. Additionally, it is important to build small fires and add a few logs at a time to your chiminea to get it "broken in" and to prevent overheating.