History of the Clay Chiminea

The story of the clay chiminea outdoor fireplace goes back quite some time, actually centuries.  The style of the chiminea was originally developed in ancient Mexico.  It was created to be a means of supplying heat by using very little wood .  Original clay chimineas were used as both a heat source and an oven for baking and cooking.  The unique pot belly shape was also ideal for keeping any rain from the fire while keeping the family warm.

The terra cotta or clay chiminea first came into use sometime during the seventeenth century in Mexico.  It was a round and ball shaped with a large door.  The bottom was wide and  the chiminea also had a  chimney that rose about three feet above it.  Along with being a heat source, the original clay chiminea was used for cooking and baking bread.  Food was cooked right on the coals on skewers or on metal sheets that were placed on the coals.

Clay Chiminea vs. Cast Iron Chiminea

The clay chiminea works well in the dry warm climate of Mexico, but the terra cotta clay does not hold up well in colder or rainy conditions.  A clay  chiminea  will crack and break due to the thermal shock of a sudden rain or low temperatures.  If you live in a dry warm climate like Mexico, a traditional clay chiminea would be fine.  However, if you do not live in such a climate there are also many suitable options as today’s chimineas are constructed in many materials.

Outdoor fire pits and fireplace have become a popular additions to today’s backyards and patios.  Although. the clay chiminea outdoor fireplace offers a utilitarian option, so do metal chimineas.

A cast iron chiminea is a good alternative to the clay chiminea.  Other metal models include copper or aluminum.  The metal chiminea is heavier than the clay chiminea, but is much more durable and does not crack or crumble.  The cast iron chiminea is the heaviest of the metal types with the aluminum is the lightest in weight.  You can also find metal models with wheels which make it much easier to move into place.

Just as the clay chiminea needs to be kept in a dry warm climate, an aluminum, copper or cast iron chiminea also needs care.  It is good idea to cover your metal chiminea with a tarp when not in use to prevent rust.  However, if your cast iron chiminea should get some rust spots, they can be easily sanded and painted.

Whether it is a Metal or Clay Chiminea – Style and Design is Important

A cast iron chiminea, or any metal style, come in beautifully designed patterns and are structured exactly like the original clay chiminea.  They are a great addition to any patio or backyard setting.  The bottom line is that if you live anywhere where the weather is not like that in Mexico, a metal chiminea is the way to go.

Consider purchasing your chiminea online. Chimineas, whether portable, clay or metal are available in many different styles from rustic to modern. Shopping online will afford you more access to the metal or clay chiminea of your choice than your local retailer.