9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Mexican Chimineas
Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit
Chimineas, originally designed to be ovens for baking, are a reflection of Mexico's rich tradition of culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetics, is timeless.
Clay chimineas are fired in kilns to remove organic materials and make the pores more resistant to cracking. They can be used all year round however they shouldn't be exposed to the elements for too long.
Origins
Imagine a warm, sunny evening in the summer, with friends and family eating delicious food outside with a warm Mexican or clay chiminea. It's a scene an ode to the Mexican roots of this type of outdoor firepit.
The terracotta stoves of the past were made to be both radiant heaters and ovens. They helped tribesmen to survive the harsh winter nights in their homeland. Their distinctive design was inspired from their utilitarian values which focused on practicality and social living.
Originally these stoves were constructed of natural terra-cotta clay that was dried and then wood-fired in kilns. Chimineas made of clay are more rustic and do not have the protection of a glazed surface. them. Modern manufacturers produce chimineas made of metals such as cast iron, aluminum and brass. These materials provide enhanced durability and weather resistance which addresses one of the major weaknesses of the clay design.
The unique design of the chiminea was inspired by the concept of a pot-bellied foundation that rises into an elongated chimney. This shape is an ideal method of containing the flame while directing the smoke upwards, which decreases air inhalation and maximizes heat retention.
Chimineas were used for cooking, heating and providing light for the tribal people of Mexico. Today, we can savor them for their aesthetic qualities and also for the warmth they provide on chilly autumn evenings and even in the chilly winter days.
No matter if your chiminea's an authentic Mexican piece or a modernized version, Gardeco has a choice of different styles to suit your garden and décor. We stock a wide range of sizes, ranging from small and medium, to extra-large and large. We also have clay chimineas decorated with decorations that is either moulded or engraved into the body of the product.
Our range of terracotta and Mexican chimineas are handmade by artisans from the center of the country. The manufacturing process can cause small variations in the shape and colour. It is possible to repaint your chiminea using an emulsion paint which is water-based if it begins to turn discoloured. Before using your new chiminea it is important to read all the instructions and tips for care provided by the manufacturer.
Design
Chimineas are not just functional but they also add an authentic and rustic feel to the space. They come in various styles and materials, and they can be paired with any patio furniture. They can be focal points or blend in seamlessly with the surroundings.
The clay chimenea was created to be practical as well as for cultural reasons. The tall, chimney-like neck directed smoke away from its users, and its rounded, round body radiates warmth. It was also used to socialize and tell stories, giving it an important place in Mexican and Central American cultures.
Traditionally, chimineas were made by local artisans using wet clay, which was gathered directly from the ground. The raw material was transformed into its final form before being dried by kiln. The process of making a clay chimenea was extremely labor-intensive, especially for large sized ones. Typically, potters would coil 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.
Modern chimineas are usually constructed of metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Metal chimineas were a significant improvement because they could endure high temperatures and moisture without cracking. This change allowed chimineas be used in many different climates.
Metal Chimineas are the most popular however there are some companies that produce clay and terracotta chimineas. The benefits of using metal chimineas are its ability 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 because they can stand up to higher temperatures and be cleaned more easily.
It doesn't matter what kind of chiminea you choose, it is important to place it in the correct place. It should be placed in a leveled space far from any fire-prone objects such as trees, grass or other structures. The chiminea should be set on a concrete, brick or stone patio and not on a wooden deck. It is a good idea to put 50mm of sand, or Gardeco Lava Stones, under the chiminea. This will shield it from direct heat.
Materials
Kiln-fired clay chimineas and terracotta are still being manufactured by small factories. The temperatures can reach up to 1000c. After cooling and cured the chimineas are then assembled. Some are coated with glazes, while others are unglazed. These chimineas offer a Mexican experience in the garden.
Chimineas are usually hand painted, with a variety of colors and designs that can be adapted to an array of styles. The paint finish will fade as time passes and because of the heat generated by the fire, so it is best to re-paint using an acrylic emulsion based on water.
Though originally intended as vital elements of heating and cooking for town-dwelling Mexicans, chimineas have embodied the sense of heritage throughout the ages and have adapted to a variety of needs. In addition to serving as bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico, these distinctive structures also played an important role in repelling insects and encouraging social gatherings.
The unique design of the chiminea with its broad base and narrow chimney spout allows maximum air to be drawn into the structure at the bottom, which reduces the intake of smoke. It also helps keep heat in the belly of the chiminea. This makes it ideal for cooking over.
Chimineas today can be found in a variety of materials including terracotta clay, cast iron and even aluminium. Terracotta chimineas are by far the most common choice, offering the traditional mexican chimineas look. They are susceptible to cracking when under pressure and should only be placed on a flat surface that is fire-safe. Cast iron and aluminum chimineas aren't as susceptible to cracking and damage, but they are stylish and durable.
To ensure that the chiminea lasts for as long as it can, it should always be placed in a well-ventilated location and shielded from rain and wind. It should be placed away from any walls or structures which could catch alight, as well as any patio roofs or eaves that could be damaged by the sudden shift in temperature that happens when the chiminea's flame is completely extinguished. To avoid the chiminea burning excessively, it is recommended that only dried, seasoned logs are burned. Regular cleaning with wire brushes is crucial, as it helps prevent build up of deposits 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
The proper maintenance is vital to the longevity of any fire apparatus. This can extend its lifespan and also ensure it is operating safely. Chimineas are quite fragile and should always be kept away from the elements in an area that is well tended. Although a chiminea made from clay appears to be sturdy, it can still crack and break due to various causes. It is crucial to examine your chiminea for signs wear and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations on how often to start it up.
To keep your Mexican chimney looking great, you should clean it thoroughly using a mild detergent. This will remove any built-up dirt and grime, which can lead to discoloration and rust. To get rid of loose rust particles, use a wire brush. It is recommended that goggles and gloves are worn to protect yourself. After you have scrubbed, wash the largest chiminea, and let it dry completely. This will prevent any moisture that causes corrosion and will greatly prolong the life of your chiminea.
After your chiminea for sale near me has been cleaned and dried, it needs to be lightly sanded using fine-grit Sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and eliminate any rough spots that could catch on to the embers as you build a fire. Sanding can also make the surface more even and attractive. 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 near me as well as guard it from corrosion.
Keep your chiminea away from direct sunlight and winds as it can cause the paint to peel off and fade. If this occurs, you can touch up the affected areas with water-based emulsion paints or masonry spray, and it's generally simple to do. Also, it is essential to build small fires and add a few logs at a time to your chiminea in order to get it "broken in" and to avoid overheating.