The
chimenea is a type of freestanding fireplace. This is a popular feature in Dallas outdoor living designs that are built around a Southwestern motif. Each fire pot has a cylindrical chimney and a bulbous body supported by three sturdy legs in a tripod configuration. These legs may be molded as one piece with the body or they may be part of a separate metal stand.
A traditional Mexican chimenea is made of fired clay. In rural areas, families still use this original design for cooking as well as warmth. In these cases, the unit is sometimes used indoors and vented through a hole in the roof. However, modern houses are not designed to safely accommodate the use of a chimenea inside the home (except as a decoration).
Clay Chimeneas
The outside of a clay fire pot must be treated with a sealant to keep it in good condition. Some manufacturers perform this step prior to sale. Others expect the end user to do this. You can use Future acrylic floor finish or a similar product recommended by your chimenea dealer.
Fill the bottom of the bowl with a couple of inches of sand to protect it from direct contact with burning wood. You may also add two bricks or a metal rack. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your initial firing; this is part of the curing process. Generally, you will need to start off with a few small fires to coat the interior of the chimney with soot (this acts as a natural sealant).
If you use a clay model, don’t fire it up if it looks like rain is on the way. The sudden cooling effect of water on a hot clay surface can make it crack. Unfortunately, you can’t simply locate your fire pot under an awning or other covering. This can present a fire hazard as sparks fly upward. Do cover your cool chimenea when it rains to prevent water from collecting in the bowl.
Metal Chimeneas
Cast iron and aluminum have replaced clay as the materials of choice for outdoor use in the U.S. They will not crack when exposed to freezing temperatures or rain. Metal does require extra care in use - it becomes extremely hot. Cast iron is a beautiful accent for your Dallas outdoor living space but it will rust over time. Aluminum is lighter weight and naturally corrosion resistant. Both materials can be painted (with high-temp paint) to look antique.
Metals are durable and resistant to breakage; you can move these freestanding fireplaces around as needed. Metal screens and vent caps are often included with these chimeneas to control sparks and protect against rain.
Additional Tips
Mosquito control is always a challenge in creating an enjoyable Dallas outdoor living experience. Consider having pinion pine delivered to your home; the fragrant smoke will help drive pests away.
Feel free to toast marshmallows in your firepot over chips of burning hardwood. Or, cook a steak over a mesquite log if your chimenea has a grill rack installed. Just don’t try a traditional barbecue with charcoal and lighter fluid. For safety and optimal enjoyment, only burn recommended materials in your chimenea.
Common sense precautions apply for every type of outdoor fireplace. Use appropriate tools to keep your hands far away from burning wood and hot clay or metal. Place your chimenea on a safe surface (not a wood deck). Purchase a fire-resistant mat or hearth pad if necessary.