How to Build a big clay chiminea; information from robertchang.ca,

Clay potters can throw massive cylinders using incredible ability. For the people who aren't experts, a large clay chiminea will have to find its permanent home immediately and moving it could damage the clay.

Find a spot that has a safe open space and lay down a layer of play sand to children. Chimineas made from clay may be damaged when there are sudden fluctuations in temperature or moisture.

Location

If you're looking for a way to warm your patio or garden, a big clay chiminea is an excellent alternative. These chimney-like works of fire art are both wide and long and are easy to set up a solid fire and protect the flames from winds. The chimney directs smoke upwards, which reduces the heat they release. They are also safer than outdoor fireplaces. You can cook your food on them, but it's better to use a separate pot and grate for this.

There's also a wide selection of styles and types for these heaters. Clay and terracotta are traditional options but you can also purchase them in other metals, such as cast iron or steel. Cast iron can handle higher temperatures, so it's the best choice for cooking in them. Chimines made of metal can be moved around more easily than a clay one or Terracotta.

The ideal place to put your chiminea is a clear, open area where the chimney can vent properly. Also, you should make sure that there aren't any trees or other flammable objects nearby. You can also set the chiminea directly on the patio of a stone or brick patio. But, you must make sure it does not rest directly on pavers as this could cause cracks in the pavers.

Fill the bottom of your fireplace with sand. This will help to keep it from becoming too hot, and will also stop any papers or kindling from falling into. Keep the ashes and sand in the chiminea and clean the chimney every week to prevent ash accumulation. If you are not going to be using your chiminea, make sure you cover it with a weatherproof cover and keep it in a safe place.

Consider placing your clay chiminea on a platform to ensure that it is not straying from your house or any other structures in your yard. It's also a good idea to keep it 10 to 20 feet from your home, as it can be quite hot when you use it and sparks can fly out of the chimney.

Size

The size of the chiminea that you pick will depend on the place you intend to put it. If you plan to use a clay chiminea within the middle of a large area it is recommended to choose one that can accommodate a large number of people and provide the chiminea with ample heat.

If you're in a smaller space in which to place the clay chimineas, it might be better to opt for a small model that can comfortably hold only a handful of people and give them enough warmth all to sit around comfortably.

Clay chimineas are made of terracotta clay, however, they are also available in cast iron and other materials. Clay models are more vulnerable to damage than metal counterparts. However the proper care and maintenance will make them last longer. Both types of chimineas should always be used on stable and level surfaces to avoid them from falling over and damaging decking or other furnishings for outside use.

Place your clay chiminea on a non-flammable base, like sand. This will shield your deck and flooring from burns and scorches. It is also important to fill the chiminea's bottom up to about halfway with sand or volcanic rock. This will prevent the sand and rock from burning or becoming too hot for you to touch. It also reduces heat stress to the clay material in the first few times you use your chiminea.

The sand or the rock will also make it easier for you to add and take away firewood at any time, and it will give you a convenient surface to place your grill on when cooking outside. It is important to allow your chiminea to cool down naturally and slowly when you are finished using it. Intentionally speeding up the process of cooling could result in stress that could crack or break the clay.

You should never put water on your chiminea, as this could cause damage or ruin it. It is best to keep your chiminea clean by removing any ash and brushing with steel chiminea wool or a soft-bristled brush. It is recommended that you use a mild soap and water to clean your clay chiminea, although some manufacturers suggest against using any acidic substances on their products.

Style

Chimineas are a beautiful addition to your backyard. Their chimneys let smoke rise into the air, and their design lets them hold a large fire without worrying about rain or wind. If you're looking to bring warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space, you might be interested in a terracotta or clay Chiminea. They're also ideal for cooking.

Clay chimineas are able to withstand high temperatures and are constructed of fire-resistant materials. They come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, and some even have decorative accents that add a touch of flair. They can be used on any surface that is fire-safe, including concrete, stone and brick patios. They can be used to ignite wood, but not charcoal.

Like all ceramic and terra cotta products, Clay Chiminea large chimineas need to be kept out of liquids and water. When they're not being used, you can store them inside a covered area or in a protective cover to keep moisture out. If you plan on using your chiminea for cooking, ensure that you follow the instructions for use. Certain models require special attention to avoid cracking that can occur when the clay is exposed to sudden temperature changes.

Fill the chiminea with sand until it is about halfway full. This will keep the flames from extending to the sides of your unit and will protect your furniture on your patio. It's best if you begin with a small fire. Clay chimineas warm up like giant radiators, and too big a fire could cause them to break or explode.

It is also crucial to allow your chiminea to cool down slowly. If you try to extinguish it using water or move it too fast, you can put the clay under stress, causing it to break. This is known as heat stress. To avoid this, set your chiminea inside a stable space like an outdoor fire pit and avoid placing it in the vicinity of any wooden structures that could catch fire.

Maintenance

It's important to maintain your clay chiminea to ensure it lasts longer and functions safely. Regular care, including using a protective cover, choosing the right fuel, managing the size of the fire, avoiding accelerants, and performing routine checks can significantly increase the lifespan of your chiminea.

Clay Chiminea large chimineas may crack and break, especially when not stored or used properly. If a chiminea from clay breaks, you'll be able to repair it with a few tools and techniques. However, if the chiminea has cracked into more than two pieces it's time to think about replacing it all.

To prevent cracking it is essential to put the chiminea on a non-flammable base. You can use sand, lava rock, or pea gravel at the bottom of the chiminea bowl in order to absorb heat from the flames. It is recommended to clean out the ashes and rock after each use, since they may build up over time. You can also buy an ash chiminea cleaner made of clay to keep the ash clean in between usages.

When assembling your chiminea be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions and place it in a safe area away from overhanging branches, wires and wooden fences. It's also essential to make use of only natural wood for your fires and not briquettes or coal, since they can cause cracks in the clay chiminea.

If your chiminea develops a crack, you may be able to fix it with some glue or putty. Make sure the chiminea has completely dried before you attempt to repair cracks. Sand the surface of the crack with medium-grit sandpaper until the surface feels smooth. If your chiminea was painted, you will need to remove it and sand down the clay underneath.

In the off-season, it is possible to protect your Chiminea by covering it with an insulated chiminea lid that is waterproof. This will stop water from destroying the clay and extend its life. It is recommended to never leave your chiminea outside in cold weather during the winter. The temperature changes could cause cracks or breaks to the chiminea. By following these easy tips you will be able to enjoy your chiminea all year round.