Clay Chiminea FAQs

• Will a clay chiminea crack?

  Without proper care, there’s a chance that your clay chiminea will crack. The good news is that it’s simple to maintain the condition of your chiminea. For more information on how to prevent your chiminea from cracking, read our guide to curing your clay chiminea.

• What do you burn in a clay chiminea?

  Clay chimineas are designed for wood burning, but charcoal can also be used. It’s important not to use lighter fluid, gasoline or alcohol in a chiminea, as tempting as it can be to give the charcoal or wood a helping hand. Be patient and the wood or charcoal will bring the clay chiminea up to a temperature that will warm the surrounding area and allow you to cook using the chiminea.

• Do clay chimineas give off heat?

  Clay chimineas are capable of producing a good amount of heat to the surrounding area. How much heat entirely depends on the size of the chiminea but also the size and placement of the opening. The heat that a clay chiminea gives off should be sufficient to warm those sitting around it and to allow you to cook food using the right chiminea accessories.

• Can you leave a clay chiminea outside?

  Cold weather can cause a chiminea to crack, even if it’s been cured. This is because clay chimineas absorb water which can then freeze and crack when the temperature drops.

  To protect your clay chiminea during the winter, it’s best to keep it indoors or protect it with a proper cover. Make sure that the chiminea is raised from the ground if you do choose to keep it outside, and keep on top of curing maintenance where possible.

  We also stock plenty of chiminea accessories such as rain covers, clay sealant, and fuel, to ensure your clay chiminea will warm your garden for many seasons to come. Browse our full chiminea collection for even more options.