9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Mexican Chimineas
Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
The first time they were used was as bread ovens Chimineas represent Mexico's rich culture. The timeless design blends practicality and aesthetic simplicity.
Clay chimineas are fired in kilns to eliminate organic matter and make the pores more resistant to cracking. They are built to live outdoors all year round, but should be protected from long-term exposure to the elements.
Origins
Imagine a warm evening in summer, with family and friends eating delicious food outside with a warm Mexican or clay chiminea. This scene is reminiscent to the Mexican origins for this type of outdoor fireplace.
These traditional terra-cotta stoves were designed to function as radiant heaters as well as ovens, assisting tribesmen through the winter nights in their homeland. Their distinctive shape was influenced from their utilitarian values which emphasised practicality and shared living.
In the beginning, these stoves were created from natural terracotta clay that was dried in kilns, then wood-fired. Clay chimineas are more rustic and don't have a a glazed surface to protect them. Modern manufacturers make chimineas out of metals like aluminum, cast iron and brass. These are more robust and resistant to weathering which is one of the main limitations in the clay design.
The distinctive design of the chiminea was created by a potbellied bottom which rises to form an elongated fireplace. This design is a great method of containing a fire whilst directing the smoke upwards, which reduces the possibility of air inhalation and enhances heat retention.
Chimineas were utilized for cooking, heating and providing light for the indigenous people of Mexico. We can still enjoy their aesthetics as well as the warmth they offer in the cold autumn evenings, or even in the warm winter sun.
Gardeco offers a variety of styles that are suitable for your garden. We have a variety of sizes, from small and medium to extra-large and Jumbo. We also have clay chimineas that have been decorated with either engraving or a moulded design.
Our range of terracotta-based chimineas and Mexican Chimineas are made by artisans in the heart of Mexico. The process of manufacturing can result in small variations in the shape and colour. It is possible to repaint your chiminea using an emulsion paint which is water-based if it starts to fade. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and care guidelines prior to using your new chiminea fireplaces the first time.
Design
Chimineas aren't just useful, but they also provide an authentic and rustic feel to the space. They are available in a variety of materials and designs, and they can be matched to any patio furniture. They can be a focal point or blend in seamlessly with the landscape.
The clay chimenea was designed to serve both practical and historical reasons. The tall chimney-like neck directed smoke away from users, and its rounded body radiated heat. It was also used as a center for storytelling and socializing and played a significant role in Mexican and Central American culture.
Traditional chimineas are crafted by local artisans using wet clay that is gathered directly from the earth. The raw material was formed into its final form before being dried in a kiln. The process of making the clay chimenea was very labor-intensive, particularly for the larger ones. Typically the potters would roll long snakes of clay into a circular shape and then smooth the clay together to form the chiminea's bowl and neck. The rim of the clay was often decorated with carvings and patterns.
A modern chiminea is usually made of metal such as cast iron or aluminum. The introduction of chimineas made of metal was an important evolutionary step because they are able to endure high temperatures and extreme moisture without cracking. This modification allowed chimineas to be used in a variety of climates.
Metal Chimineas are the most popular however there are some companies that produce clay and terracotta ones. Metal chimineas are more durable and are easier to clean. These features have made chimineas for sale from metal more popular than their clay counterparts.
It doesn't matter which type of chiminea is chosen It is crucial that it is placed in the right place. It should be placed in a level space and away from any fire-prone objects such as trees, grass or other structures. The chiminea should also be set on a concrete, brick or stone patio and never on a wooden deck. It's a good idea also to put 50mm of sand, or Gardeco Lava Stones under the chiminea. This will protect it from direct heat.
Materials
Traditional chimineas made of terracotta and clay which are still manufactured by small factories today, are fired to temperatures up to 1000c. After they have been cooled and dried they are then assemble. Some are glazed while others remain unglazed. Chimineas are a very popular choice as they offer an authentic Mexican look to a garden.
Chimineas are hand-painted in a variety colours and patterns to suit different styles. The paint finish will fade over time and because of the heat generated by the flame, so it is best to re-paint using an acrylic emulsion that is water-based.
The original purpose was to provide heating and cooking facilities for Mexicans living in towns, chimineas through time have become a symbol of culture, adjusting their functions to accommodate a variety of needs. Apart from serving as bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico They also played an important function in repelling insects and in promoting social gatherings.
The unique design of a chiminea with a broad base and a narrow chimney spout allows for the maximum amount of air to be drawn in from the bottom of the structure, reducing smoke inhalation. It also helps to retain heat in the belly of the chiminea, making it ideal to cook over.
Chimineas are found in many different materials like cast iron, terracotta clay and even aluminum. Terracotta chimineas are the most popular choice, providing the classic Mexican appearance. They are prone cracking when under pressure and should be placed on flat surfaces that are safe from fire. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less prone to cracking, and are elegant and sturdy.
To make sure the chiminea will last as long as you can, place it in a location that is well-ventilated and shielded from wind and rain. It should be placed away from structures and walls that could catch fire, and also any eaves and patio roofs that could be damaged by a sudden change in temperature once the chiminea outdoor fireplace has been put out. To ensure that the chiminea does not smoke excessively it is recommended that only dried, seasoned logs are burned. It is important to regularly clean the chiminea with a wirebrush, as this will help prevent the build-up of deposits that can be burned and turn black. The chiminea can be protected from wind to decrease the amount smoke that it emits.
Maintenance
Like any other fire apparatus it is important to maintain it properly to ensuring the longevity of your chiminea. This will help to extend its life and ensure that it is operating safely. Chimineas are fragile and should be kept in a protected area where they can be cared for. While a clay chiminea may seem sturdy enough, it is still susceptible to cracks and breakage from various sources. It is essential to inspect your chiminea for signs of wear and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding how often to fire it.
The first step in ensuring that your mexican chiminea stays looking its best is to wash it thoroughly with an easy detergent solution. This will get rid of any build-up dirt and grime that could cause discoloration and rust. A wire brush should be used to scrub away loose rust particles, and it is recommended that you wear gloves and safety glasses for safety reasons. After scrubbing the chiminea then rinse it and let it dry completely. This will stop any moisture that causes corrosion and will greatly prolong the life of your chiminea.
After the chiminea has been cleaned and dried, you should lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and eliminate any rough spots that could catch on to embers when you build an fire. The sanding will also help make the surface more uniform and attractive. Sanding can be followed by a few coats of stove paint or grill paint to improve the appearance and safeguard your chiminea from rust.
It is also recommended to keep your chiminea away from direct sunlight and winds, as this can cause the paint to peel and fade. It is possible to fix the issue using water-based emulsions paints or masonry spray. It is also crucial to only add a few pieces of wood at a time, and build small fires to your chiminea in order to "break it into" and to avoid overheating.
