9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Mexican Chimineas > 자유게시판

Chimineas - An Authentic Mexican Fire Pit

The first time they were used was as bread ovens Chimineas are a symbol of Mexico's rich heritage of culture. The simple design, blending practicality and aesthetic simplicity, is timeless.

Chimineas made of clay can be fired in kilns, which remove organic materials from the clay and seals the pores to stop cracking. They are designed to live outdoors all year long, but should be protected from prolonged exposure to the elements.

Origins

Imagine a balmy summer evening with friends and family, enjoying delicious food in an outdoor space, kept warm by the gentle warmth of your clay or Mexican top rated chiminea. This scene is reminiscent of the Mexican origins of this type of outdoor fireplace.

The traditional terra-cotta stoves were designed to function as radiant heaters as well as ovens, aiding tribesmen during the cold desert nights of their homeland. Their distinctive shape was influenced by their utilitarian principles that stressed practicality and communal living.

Originally these stoves were constructed of natural terra-cotta clay which was dried and then wood-fired in kilns. Chimineas made of clay have a more rustic look and were not glazed to protect their surface. Modern manufacturers produce chimineas made of metals like brass, cast iron and aluminum. These are more durable and resistant to weathering which is one of the major limitations of the clay design.

The unique design of the chiminea was inspired by the concept of a pot-bellied foundation that rises into an extended chimney. This design is ideal for containing fires while moving smoke upwards. This helps reduce the intake of air and increases heat retention.

Chimineas were used by Mexican tribes for heating, cooking and lighting. Today we can enjoy these beautiful qualities and the warmth they provide in cold autumn evenings and even in brisk winter sun.

Gardeco provides a variety of styles that will suit your garden. We carry a wide selection of sizes, ranging from small and medium, to extra-large and Jumbo. We also have clay chimineas decorated with decorations that can be moulded, or engraving into the body of the item.

Our range of terracotta chimineas and Mexican chimineas are handmade by artisans in the heart of Mexico. The process of manufacturing can result in slight variations in colour and shape. You can always re-paint your chiminea using an emulsion paint that is water-based if it begins to discolour. Before you begin using your new chiminea it is essential to read all instructions and tips on care given by the manufacturer.

Design

Chimineas not only add warmth and character to any space They are also functional. They are available in a variety of materials and designs, and they can be matched with any furniture for your patio. They can be focal points or blend in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

The clay chimenea was conceived to be practical as well as for cultural reasons. Its chimney-like neck was tall and directed smoke away from the users and its rounded, circular body exuded warmth. It was also used as a place for gathering and storytelling, giving it an important function in Mexican and Central American culture.

Traditional chimineas are crafted by local artisans using wet clay that is collected directly from the earth. The clay was then formed into its final form before being dried in a kiln. Clay chimeneas are extremely labor intensive to make especially large ones. Typically the potters would roll long snakes of clay into a circular shape, and then smooth the clay and create the chiminea's neck and bowl. The rim of the clay is often decorated with carvings or patterns.

Modern chimineas are generally constructed of metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Metal chimineas are an important development because they can withstand moisture and high temperatures without cracking. This allowed chimineas be used in a wide range of climates.

While there are a number of companies that make clay and terracotta chimineas the majority of chimineas are now made from metal. Metal chimineas last longer and easier to clean. These features have made chimineas from metal more popular than their clay counterparts.

Whatever type of chiminea that you select it is essential to place it in the proper place. It must be placed in a leveled area far from any flammable items 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's also an excellent idea to put 50mm of sand or Gardeco lava stones underneath the chiminea to protect it from direct heat and to keep the hot part of the fire from the clay.

Materials

Kiln-fired clay chimineas and terracotta are still being manufactured by small factories. The temperatures can go up to 1000 degrees Celsius. After cooling and cured the chimineas are then assembled. Some are glazed, while others remain unglazed. These chimineas offer an Mexican experience in the garden.

Chimineas are hand-painted in a variety colours and patterns to suit different styles. The paint finish will discolour as time passes and because of the heat generated by the flame, so it is best to re-paint using an acrylic emulsion that is water-based.

Although originally designed as essential features of cooking and heating for urban Mexicans, chimineas have embodied a sense of cultural heritage through time adapting to various needs. In addition to being bread ovens for the indigenous people of Mexico, these distinctive structures also played a vital role in repelling insects and encouraging social gatherings.

The unique design of the chiminea, with its wide base and narrow chimney spout allows maximum air flow into the structure from the bottom, reducing smoke inhalation. It also helps to keep the heat inside the chiminea's belly, making it ideal for cooking.

Presently, chimineas can be found in a variety of materials that include terracotta, cast iron, and even aluminum. Terracotta chimineas are by far the most common choice, offering the traditional Mexican style. However, they are susceptible to cracking under pressure, and should only be placed on a flat, safe for fire surface. Cast iron and aluminium chimineas are less prone to cracking, and are elegant and durable.

To ensure that the chiminea is as long-lasting as possible, you should place it in a location which is well ventilated and protected from rain and wind. It should be placed away from structures and walls that could catch fire, and also the roofs of patios and eaves that may be damaged by a sudden change in temperature once the chiminea has been put out. In order to prevent the chiminea from smoking too much, it is advised to keep the leaves away and only dry, seasoned logs be burned. Regular cleaning with a wire brush is crucial, as it helps prevent build up of deposits which are likely to ignite and blacken. The chiminea can be shielded from the wind to reduce the amount smoke that it produces.

Maintenance

Like all fire equipment the proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring the longevity of your Chiminea. This can help prolong its lifespan and ensure that it functions safely. Chimineas are quite fragile and should be kept outside in a place where they can be properly taken care of. While a chiminea made from clay may appear to be sturdy enough, it is still susceptible to cracks and breaking due to various sources. It is crucial to examine your chiminea's condition for signs of wear, and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on how often to use it.

To keep your Mexican chimney looking good it is essential to clean it thoroughly using a mild detergent. This will remove any dirt and grime that may cause discoloration or corrosion. To get rid of loose rust particles, employ a wire brush. It is recommended that gloves and goggles be worn for safety. After you have scrubbed, wash the chiminea and let it dry completely. This will stop any water from causing corrosion and can also extend the life of your chiminea.

After your chiminea has been cleaned and dried, you can lightly sand it using fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth out the surface and eliminate any rough spots that could trap embers should you decide to build an open flame. Sanding can also make the appear more appealing and even. The sanding process can be followed by several coats of grill or stove paint to enhance the appearance and safeguard your chiminea from rust.

Keep your chiminea from direct sunlight and wind, as it can cause the paint to peel and fade. If this occurs you can sand the affected areas using water-based emulsion paints or masonry sprays and it's usually easy to do. It is also important to only add a few pieces of wood at a time and create small chiminea fires for your chiminea to "break it in" and to avoid overheating.