9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Mexican Chimineas
Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
Chimineas, which were originally used as an oven for baking, represent Mexico's rich culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetic simplicity is timeless.
Clay chimineas can be fired in kilns, which remove organic materials from the clay and seals the pores to stop cracking. They are made to be outdoors all year round but should be protected from prolonged exposure to the elements.
Origins
Imagine a warm, sunny evening in summer, with your loved ones and family enjoying delicious food outdoors and being warm by your Mexican or big clay Chiminea chiminea. This scene is reminiscent of the Mexican origins of this kind of outdoor fireplace.
These traditional terra-cotta stoves were designed to serve as radiant heaters as well as ovens, aiding tribesmen during the cold desert nights of their homeland. Their distinctive design was derived from their utilitarian characteristics, emphasising practicality and the importance of living in a communal setting.
Originally, these stoves were created from terracotta clay, which was dried in kilns, then wood-fired. Chimineas made of clay are more rustic and don't have a a glazed surface to protect them. Modern manufacturers make chimineas using metals like cast iron, brass and aluminum. These materials are more robust and resistant to weathering, which is one of the main limitations of the clay design.
The unique design of the chiminea was created by a potbellied bottom that rises up to create an long fireplace. This shape is an ideal way to contain the flame while directing the smoke upwards, which decreases the risk of inhaling air and increases heat retention.
Chimineas were a popular method of lighting, heating and cooking. We still appreciate their beauty and the warmth they bring in the cold autumn evenings or even in the warm winter sun.
Whether your chiminea is an authentic Mexican piece or a more modern version, Gardeco has a choice of different styles to suit your decor and garden. We offer a range of sizes, from small to extra-large. We also have clay chimineas decorated with decorations that can be moulded or engraving into the body of the item.
Our range of terracotta-based chimineas and Mexican chimineas is handmade by artisans from the middle of the country. The process of making them can cause minor variations in shape and colour. You can always repaint your chiminea with an emulsion paint that's water-based if it starts to turn discoloured. Before using your new chiminea it is crucial to follow all instructions and tips for care provided by the manufacturer.
Design
Chimineas not only add warmth and character to any space, but they are also practical. They are available in a variety of materials and designs and can be paired with any furniture for your patio. They can be a focal point or blend in seamlessly with the surroundings.
The clay chimenea was created to serve both practical and historical reasons. Its tall chimney-like neck directed smoke away from the users, and its rounded body radiated warmth. It was also used as a gathering place for storytelling and socializing and played a significant role in Mexican and Central American culture.
Traditionally, chimineas were crafted by local artisans using moist clay, which was collected directly from the ground. The raw material was transformed into its final form prior to being dried in a kiln. Clay chimeneas are extremely labor-intensive to create especially the larger ones. Typically potters would coil long snakes of clay into a cylindrical shape and then smooth the clay together to form the chiminea's bowl and neck. The rim of the clay was usually decorated with carvings or patterns.
Modern chimineas are typically constructed from metals like cast-iron or aluminum. The introduction of chimineas made from metal was a significant step forward since they can withstand high temperatures and moisture without cracking. This change allowed chimineas to be used in a vast range of climates.
Metal chimineas are the most common but there are some companies that produce clay and terracotta chimineas. The advantages of a metal chiminea include its capability to withstand higher temperatures as well as the fact that it can be cleaned more easily. Metal chimineas are much more popular than clay chimineas due to the fact that they can endure higher temperatures and be cleaned with ease.
No matter what type of chiminea is selected it is essential to place it in the right spot. It should be set in a leveled area and away from any fire-prone objects such as trees, grass or other buildings. The chiminea should also be placed on a brick, concrete or stone patio and not on a wooden deck. It's also a good idea to place 50mm of sand or Gardeco Lava Stones under the chiminea. This will shield it from direct heat.
Materials
Kiln-fired clay chimineas and terracotta chimineas are still being produced by small-scale factories. The temperatures can reach up to 1000 degrees Celsius. After cooling and dried, the chimineas can be put together. Some are coated with glazes, while others are unglazed. Chimineas are a very popular choice since they give that authentic Mexican feel to a garden.
Chimineas can be hand painted in a variety colours and patterns to fit different styles. The paint finish does discolour as time passes and with the heat of the fire, so it is recommended to paint again using an emulsion that is water-based.
In the beginning, they were designed to provide cooking and heating facilities for Mexicans living in towns, chimineas over time have become a cultural symbol, adapting their function to satisfy a variety of requirements. Apart from serving as bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico They also played a crucial role in repelling insects and encouraging social gatherings.
The unique design of a big chiminea with a broad base and a narrow chimney spout, allows the maximum amount of air to be drawn into the bottom of the structure, reducing smoke inhalation. It also helps to retain heat in the belly of the chiminea indoor. This makes it ideal for cooking over.
Today, chimineas can be found in many different materials like terracotta clay, cast iron and even aluminum. Terracotta chimineas offer the classic Mexican appearance. However, they are prone to crack under pressure and should only be placed on a flat, fire-safe surface. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less susceptible to cracking and damage, but they are stylish and durable.
To make sure the chiminea is as long-lasting as you can, place it in a location which is well ventilated and shielded from rain and wind. It should be placed away from any walls or structures which could catch alight and also any roofs on patios or eaves that may be damaged by the sudden shift in temperature that occurs when the chiminea is completely extinguished. To avoid the chiminea burning excessively, it is recommended that only dried, seasoned logs are burned. Regular cleaning with a wire brush is important, as it will stop the accumulation of deposits which are likely to ignite and turn black. Sheltering the chiminea from the wind can also help reduce the amount of smoke it releases as it burns.
Maintenance
Like all fire equipment the proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of your chiminea. This will prolong its lifespan and ensure it operates safely. Chimineas are relatively fragile and should always be kept in a protected area in an area that is well tended. Although a chiminea made of clay might appear sturdy enough, it is still susceptible to cracks and breaking from a variety of sources. This is why it is important to inspect your chiminea frequently for signs of wear and tear, as well as to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding how often it should be fired.
To keep your Mexican chimney looking good you must clean it thoroughly with a mild detergent. This will get rid of any build-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 you have scrubbed the chiminea, rinse it and let it dry completely. This will prevent any moisture from causing corrosion and can significantly extend the life of your chiminea.
After your chiminea is cleaned and dried, you can lightly sand it using fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and eliminate any rough areas that could catch embers if you decide to build an open flame. Sanding can also help to make the surface more uniform and attractive. In the end, sanding could be followed by a series of coats of grill or stove paint, which will improve the appearance of your chiminea as well as keep it from corrosion.
It is also recommended to keep your chiminea away from direct sunlight and wind, as this can cause the paint to peel and fade. You can fix the issue using water-based emulsions or paints or masonry spray. Additionally, it is important to build small fires, and to add a few logs at a time to your chiminea to get it "broken in" and to prevent overheating.