Sitting outside our home, warming by the fire on a cool summer evening is one of the best ways we can enjoy our free time, alone or with our family and friends. There are many ways we can provide warmth for our outdoor area, different types of outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and bowls, heaters, etc., and the chimeneas are for those looking for something unique and unconventional to beautify their backyard, while enabling them to enjoy the outdoor fire safely.

There are different models, sizes and styles, as well as different materials they are made of, and choosing the right one that best fits our needs should be based on how large is our outdoor space and how warm we need it to be. The clay model, for example, is more for a small, ambient flame, with low heat. Otherwise, the higher temperatures can cause the clay to crack, not only ruining the chimenea, but also creating a fire hazard.

For those with wider spaces, looking for larger fire, the cast iron chimenea is much better option. This model is more expensive that the clay one, but on the other side, it is also much more durable and can withstand roaring fires and high temperatures. There also is a cylinder style chiminea which can also be portable. This model is great for cooking marshmallows, or just enjoying a good old campfire feel.

No matter the model we choose, it is very important to keep it clean and maintain it if we want to best protect our investment. This includes yearly coating with acrylic wax or water sealer that protects the chimenea from moisture penetration, and covering it with fire resistant vinyl covers when storing it during the winter. The water shouldn’t be allowed to enter the chimney when it isn’t being used. Proper protection and care will ensure long years of use for our outdoor chiminea.