Chimineas – clay and cast iron

Chimineas are the original wood burning outdoor stoves that were used as bread ovens. They first originated in Mexico and were made of clay that was fired in a kiln and then seasoned before use. Modern alternatives to the clay chiminea are chimineas that are made from cast iron. You can read more about both types of chiminea below.

The clay (Mexican) chiminea

The clay chimineas (sometimes spelt chiminea) date back to seventeenth century Mexico where they were really nothing more than outdoor bread ovens.

The chiminea is made up from two pieces, a stove and a chimney or flue. Both components are separately thrown from clay and allowed to dry before the two sections are united, following which they are fired in a kiln.

The current popularity of the chiminea probably has more to do with its ornamental value than its capabilities as a cooking utility. However, it does have the dual ability to act as both a barbeque and a garden heater.

chimineas come in a range of sizes and variations of shape, but all have an opening (sometimes two) in the burner section and a chimney of varying height.

Some chimemeas are highly decorated with carvings or projecting embellishments and they may also be painted for decorative effect. Most chimineas are very attractive additions to a garden.

Care and use of clay chimineas

Owning a chiminea is a bit like owning a pet, it requires attention and care if you are to get the most out of it and avoid its untimely demise. Chimineas are also fairly expensive, so there is no point in investing in one and then leaving it to the rigours of the elements.

Firstly, chimineas are susceptible to damage. They can easily be cracked or broken through handling or carelessness, so the best approach is to find a good location and move it there just once.

They also require seasoning when they are first bought and ongoing water proofing of their external surface during their lifespan. Covering them up, or taking them indoors during rain is also important.

For more extensive information about the care and use of clay chimineas, read the information on this page chiminea care. It will also help you decide if the ongoing maintenance and preparation for use is something that you are prepared to "put up with".

Cast iron chimineas

Cast iron chimineas have a similar appearance to their clay counterparts, but they are far more robust, durable and user friendly. One downside does however remain, they are heavy and awkward to handle.

Like a Mexican chiminea, the cast iron burner is composed of a stove and a chimney, but both sections may be cast as one and they are strong and not easily damaged. There is also no requirement for seasoning, waterproofing or careful protection from the elements.

Cast iron chimineas will rust, but this is part of their character and it has no bearing on their performance or longevity. They are available in different variations of the standard chiminea shape and some of the castings are quite ornate.

Using a chiminea and its performance

If your sole aim is to buy a good effective patio heater, then a chiminea, in whatever form, will be a big disappointment.

These items can make effective barbeques, although you do need to get the hang of lighting and using them, and they look great in a rustic way.

However, they are not good at radiating heat, they take time to prep and warm up, their heat output cannot easily be controlled, and their heat cannot be directed or focussed in or around a particular area.

If you want a chiminea, then buy it for the right reasons, i.e. primarily as a decorative ornament or for cooking, and enjoy the character that it adds to your garden or back yard.

If you want a garden heater for social gatherings or family use, look at the gas or electric alternatives, they will prove more effective.

To see some further examples of chimineas, go to this examples page.