The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Mexican Chimineas

Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit

Originally designed to be a bread oven Chimineas represent Mexico's rich cultural heritage. The simple design, blending practicality with 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 should be protected from long-term exposure to the elements.

Origins

Imagine a balmy summer evening, surrounded by family and friends, savoring delicious food in a beautiful outdoor space, surrounded by the gentle warmth of your clay or Mexican chiminea. This scene is reminiscent to the Mexican origins of this kind of outdoor fireplace.

These traditional terracotta stoves were designed to serve as radiant heaters as well as ovens. They helped tribesmen to survive the cold desert nights in their home. Their distinctive shape stems from their utilitarian values that emphasized practicality and the importance of living in a communal setting.

The stoves were created out of natural terracotta clay which was dried in kilns before being then wood-fired. Chimineas made of clay have a more rustic appearance and were not glazed to protect their surface. Modern manufacturers now produce chimineas from metals such as cast iron, brass and aluminum. These materials provide enhanced durability and resistance to weather which addresses one of the major weaknesses of the clay design.

The unique design of the ceramic chiminea was created by a pot-bellied base that rises up to create an extended fireplace. This form is a perfect way to contain the flame while directing the smoke upwards, which reduces the possibility of air inhalation and enhances heat retention.

Chimineas were used for cooking for heating, cooking and also to provide light for the indigenous people of Mexico. We can still enjoy their beauty and the warmth they provide in the cold autumn evenings, or even in the brisk winter sun.

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

Our range of terracotta chimineas and mexican chimineas (just click for source) are handmade by artisans from the center of Mexico. The colours and shapes can vary slightly due to the nature of the manufacturing process. If your chiminea begins to discolour, you can easily 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 not just add warmth and character to any space, but they are also functional. They are available in a variety of materials and designs and can be matched to 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 to serve both practical and historical reasons. Its tall, chimney-like neck directed smoke away from its users and its rounded, circular body exuded warmth. It also served as a center for storytelling and socializing, giving it an important function in Mexican and Central American culture.

Traditionally, chimineas were handcrafted by local artisans using wet clay that was taken directly from the ground. This raw material was then formed into its final form prior to being dried by kiln. Clay chimeneas are very labor intensive to make particularly big ones. Typically the potters would roll long snakes of clay into a cylindrical shape, and then smooth the clay to form the chiminea's bowl as well as neck. The rim of the clay was usually decorated with patterns or carvings.

Modern chimineas are typically made from metals such as cast-iron or aluminum. Metal chimineas were a significant development because they can endure high temperatures and moisture without cracking. This change allowed chimineas to be used in a wide range of climates.

Although there are a number of companies that manufacture clay and terracotta-based chimineas most chimineas now are made from metal. Metal chimineas last longer and easier to clean. Metal chimineas are more popular than clay chimineas because they can withstand higher temperatures and can be cleaned with ease.

Whatever kind of chiminea large you pick it's important to put it in the correct location. It should be placed in a leveled area, away from any flammable items such as trees, grass or other buildings. The chiminea should also be set 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 under the chiminea in order to shield it from direct heat and to keep the most hot part of the fire pits & chimineas away from the clay.

Materials

Traditional clay and terracotta chimineas that are still produced by small companies today, are kiln fired to temperatures up to 1000c. After cooling and dried, the chimineas are able to be put together. Some are coated with glazes, while others are unglazed. These chimineas are a popular choice because they provide that authentic Mexican feel to a garden.

Chimineas can be painted by hand in a variety of colours and patterns to fit different styles. The paint finish will discolour over time and due to the heat of the fire, so it is recommended to paint again using a water-based acrylic emulsion.

Although originally designed as essential elements of heating and cooking for urban Mexicans Chimineas have also embodied the sense of heritage through time adapting to various requirements for functional purposes. In addition to 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 permits maximum air to be drawn into the structure from the bottom, which reduces smoke intake. It also helps keep the heat within the chiminea's belly, which makes it perfect for cooking.

Presently, chimineas can be found in a variety of materials such as terracotta, cast iron, and even aluminum. Terracotta Chimineas have a classic Mexican look. They are prone to cracking under pressure, and should be placed on an even surface that is fire-safe. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less susceptible to cracking, and are stylish and durable.

To ensure the chiminea lasts for as long as it can it should be kept in a well-ventilated space and protected from rain and wind. It should be placed away from any walls or structures which could catch alight as well as eaves or patio roofs which might be damaged due to the sudden change in temperature when the chiminea is extinguished. To prevent the chiminea from burning excessively, it is recommended that leaves are not burned and only dry, seasoned logs are burned. Regular cleaning using a wire brush is also essential, as it will keep deposits from accumulating that could cause the chiminea to burn and blacken. Chimineas can be protected from wind, which will reduce the amount of smoke it emits.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial to the longevity of any fire equipment. This will extend its lifespan and ensure it operates safely. Chimineas can be fragile and should be kept in a protected area where they can be properly cared for. Even if a chiminea made of clay appears sturdy but it is still susceptible to cracks and break due to various causes. It is crucial to examine your chiminea's condition for signs of wear and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations on how often you should fire it.

To keep your mexican chimney looking great it is essential to clean it thoroughly using a mild detergent. This will remove any built-up dirt and grime that could cause discoloration and corrosion. To remove loose rust particles you should use a wire brush. It is recommended that goggles and gloves are worn to protect yourself. After you have scrubbed, wash the chiminea and let it dry completely. This will prevent any moisture causing corrosion and can greatly prolong the life of your chiminea.

After your chiminea has been cleaned and dried, it can be lightly sanded with fine grit the sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and remove any rough areas that could catch on to embers when you build an open flame. The sanding will also help make the surface more uniform and attractive. The sanding process can be followed by several coats of stove or grill paint that will enhance the appearance of your chiminea as well as protect it from corrosion.

Keep your chiminea away from direct sunlight and wind as it can cause paint to peel and fade. If this occurs you can sand the areas affected with water-based emulsion paints or masonry sprays and it is generally easy to do. It is also important to only add a few pieces of wood at a time and build small fires to your chiminea so that you can "break it in" and prevent overheating.