Fire pits are fantastic, but chimineas offer an entirely new perspective to fire pits in the backyard. These unique outdoor fire places are art pieces creating warmth and ambiance for family gatherings.
Chimineas should be stored outdoors and not placed directly beneath any material that is flammable. They must also be protected from rainy weather.
Safety
It’s important that you ensure safety regardless of the type of fire feature is located in your backyard. Both chimineas and fire pits have the potential to create hot sparks, which could cause burns. Both emit a plume of smoke that could contain pollutants like secondhand smoke. Ensure that the surrounding area is clear of anything combustible and that the chiminea is kept away from overhanging trees or eaves that could catch fire. It’s also best to wear protective clothing when using a chiminea, especially if you are planning to cook food on it.
While both chimineas as well as fire pits can provide warmth, entertainment, and create a focal point for your outdoor space however, they differ in terms of aesthetic preferences and lifestyle needs. Fire pits are more striking and can be used to complement a wide variety of design styles. Chimineas have a rustic more traditional look that is perfect for smaller gardens. They also require more maintenance as they tend to produce more smoke than fire pits and require regular cleaning of ash.
In terms of environmental impact, chimineas release less particulate pollution than traditional wood-burning fire places due to the fact that they use smoky dryer, and more seasoned wood that results in less emission per usage. Both types of fire pits release large quantities of air pollutants mostly in the form of toxic chemicals.
When constructing the chiminea, make sure to use only seasoned wood and to keep the burning flames as small as possible. It’s recommended to place an electrical spark arrester made of mesh on the top of the chimney. A spark arrester will help reduce the creation of unwanted sparks that can ignite grass fires or spread the fire to nearby combustible materials. It’s a good idea to avoid extinguishing a chiminea with water since the sudden shift in temperature could damage clay, terracotta, or even metal.
Both fire pits and chimineas are best suited to an unflammable surface like pavers, concrete, brick or slate tiles. Ideally, the chiminea should be at least ten feet away from any structure or combustible material. It is a good idea to purchase a hose and a water container for homeowners so they can quickly extinguish any fires that might occur.
Style
Although fire pits have become very popular and may be the most common option for outdoor fire features, chimineas are still an attractive choice for many homeowners. They can give an authentic, Mexican feel to your patio or garden. They also provide warmth during the colder months. You must decide between a chiminea or fire pit in relation to the dimensions of your outdoor space and the kind of fuel you want to use.
Chimineas come in a variety of styles, ranging from the classic terra-cotta round design to more modern metal options. Some allow you to burn wood instead of gas, which is an alternative to use when the weather gets cool or the wind is too strong to have an open fire pit with chiminea.
The base of the traditional chiminea is hollow, and it holds the firewood. This wood is fed from the front. The chimney neck is extended upward to funnel smoke upwards and away from the home to keep drafts out and reduce the amount of soot that would otherwise get into your food or onto you while cooking.
Clay and terracotta chimineas can be damaged if they become too hot. They are best used in areas that are protected from the elements. Cast iron and steel chimineas will be able to withstand heat, however they are heavy and difficult to move.
A fireplace with wood burning is a great addition to your patio if you have the space to accommodate it. Be aware that chimineas require a lot of space to smoke. You should put them away from other structures or seating areas to avoid damage.
You can find a chiminea made of clay or metal and is either painted or natural-looking. If you opt for a metal chiminea, it is likely to have an anti-corrosive coating that helps to keep rust at bay. Some even have a black finish for a contemporary look. You can pick an item that has a natural patina of rust. This happens when the metal is exposed.
Fuel
With a wide base tapering to a narrow chimney, chimneys make the perfect focal point for smaller patios. They are available in different materials and have hand-crafted features. They add warmth and ambience to your outdoor living space.
Chimineas minimize unwanted emissions, unlike traditional fire places that burn wood, which can be hazardous to your health. Their enclosed design and upward-directed chimney help reduce smoke, which can alleviate environmental issues and nuisances from neighbors. This is especially beneficial if you live in an urban area where excessive smoke could create problems for other residents.
Chimineas are typically made of treated or seasoned wood. However, there are models that can also be used with propane gas and charcoal to provide a more flexible cooking experience. If you opt to burn fossil fuels, such as coal, you’ll have to be aware of the fuel you use to ensure it doesn’t release too much smoke.
As with fire pits, size of chimineas is also different. You can find designs to fit standard logs, or even larger pieces that can be used for grilling. Certain chimineas feature features like a grilling grate and a screen, or a rain cap to shield the chimney against falling sparks and other debris. Others, like this model from Bali Outdoors, include a mouth opening that is screened and a steel chiminea wood poker to safely ignite the fuel.
There’s a chiminea for every style, regardless of whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary aesthetic. There are chimineas with engraving or painted details as well as traditional models. Certain manufacturers, like the Blue Rooster Company that makes our top choice, offer conversion kits to transform Ceramic chimineas that burn wood into gas-powered versions.
A chiminea that is properly designed will provide the safety and comfort of your garden experience. To determine which option is best for you, take into consideration your lifestyle, your preferences for aesthetics and the size of your garden. Make sure to prioritize security features and maintenance requirements when you shop and think about your budget to ensure you are able to enjoy your chiminea all year round.
Maintenance
Although they are simple to use, chimineas need some care to ensure that they last a long time and are safe. Keep your chiminea free of debris and ash to avoid fire hazards and structural damage. Regular cleaning improves your outdoor fireplace’s appearance and rustic charm.
Gas models can be converted to burn propane or natural gas. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s important to ensure that the chimney is free of flammable materials such as leaves and twigs when you use gas-powered chimineas. It is best to only burn dry, seasoned wood with your gas chiminea. The materials that are treated or painted release toxic chemicals.
It is recommended to cover the bottom of a clay chiminea with pea gravel or rock sand. This will prevent the clay from cracking when heated by a large flame. A slate or metal stack top can be placed on the chiminea to shield it from rain. Chimineas are made to be cured or broken down slowly by creating small fires, and then growing in size over time. After three to four small fires, your chiminea should be ready for larger logs.
When using your chiminea, it is essential to adhere to local laws regarding burning. Be especially cautious during drought conditions, since the constant smoke from a chiminea may cause your neighbors to become angry or request you to remove your fires.
Chimineas made of clay and steel are both susceptible to breaking or cracking when the weather is too cold or hot. However, steel structures will be more likely to rust and suffer corrosion than those made of clay. A durable, high-quality chiminea can ensure that your outdoor fire will last for many years.
It is recommended to fill the grate with 3 inches of pea gravel or rock sand when using your chiminea. This will stop the fire from spreading and causing the risk of a fire. It is also a good idea to put your fireplace so that the wind can take the smoke away and not into your home. The constant stream of noxious gases could cause issues.