Just be sure that your chiminea is sitting on a flat surface away from overhanging branches or any other flammable materials. It’s best to buy a chiminea base for your new wood burner but you can also use rocks, bricks or concrete slabs. What type of outdoor flooring do I need for a chiminea?Īs chimineas burn so hot, you’ll want to protect your outdoor flooring as much as possible. Shortly after this has burned out, you’ll need to light a slightly larger fire, then allow this to cool completely.įollow these steps daily for approximately seven days to ensure your chiminea is well protected from cracks and rust. Continue to do this for a week, with each fire gradually getting larger.įor cast-iron and steel varieties, you’ll need to fix the grate inside and light small fires with kindling. Let this cool completely before building another small fire. With the clay variety, place a pumice stone, sand or lava rock in the bottom of the chiminea and start by lighting a small fire using only paper. If you’re buying a cast-iron, steel or clay chiminea, you’ll need to “cure” it to prevent rust and hairline cracks that can shorten the life of a chiminea over time. How can I protect my chiminea from the elements? Their portability means they’re easier to move, but even if you keep them away from harsh environments, the cheaper material means a shorter life. They won’t last as long as clay or cast iron ones and are prone to damage from the elements. The inexpensiveness of stainless steel chimineas comes at a cost, though. Better still, stainless steel versions can be used with all solid fuel types. They’re also a good option for anyone living in rented or short-term accommodation, as they’re easily movable from home to home. They’re both lighter in weight and on your wallet, so stainless steel allows you to indulge your chiminea desires without spending a fortune. Stainless steel chimineas: Cheap and cheerful stainless steel chimineas are a great option if you’re new to outdoor heating. One downside is that cast-iron chimineas can be very heavy, so you won’t want to move them around too often – if at all. Like their clay counterparts, they need to be periodically resealed but not nearly as often. They also don’t need to be stored during winter and can be used when wet, although it’s still worth buying a cover for a cast-iron chiminea. This also means they burn hotter for longer, which can be an advantage. Cast iron doesn’t require the same level of maintenance as clay, allows you to burn wood, charcoal and coal, and can be heated to very high temperatures without the risk of cracking. They are relatively high-maintenance items, but if you want something truly authentic, they’re worth the time and effort.Ĭast-iron chimineas: If a robust and long-lasting chiminea is your top priority, then consider one made from cast iron. Instructions on how to care for clay chimineas can vary, so you’ll need to take individual care instructions into consideration if you decide clay is for you. This includes the application of heat-resistant sealant approximately once a month, as well as seasoning before use and periodically throughout their lifetime to prevent shattering.Ĭlay chimineas can only be used with wood, as charcoal makes the material burn too hot, leading to shattering. They’re popular due to their olde-worlde style but they’re also the hardest to look after, as they must be protected from harsh winter weather and cannot be used if damp.īecause clay is prone to cracking and breaking, clay chimineas require quite a bit of maintenance. The three main types are made from clay, cast iron or stainless steel, and each requires maintenance to perform at its best – particularly if you want them to last more than one summer.Ĭlay chimineas: These are the oldest style of free-standing outdoor fireplace you’ll find available to buy today. How to choose the best chiminea for you What type of chiminea should I buy?ĭepending on the material it’s made from, each chiminea has its own quirks.
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