Safety Always
Comes First
When you're ready
to enjoy the warmth of a fire pit, location is first and foremost.
These units need to be placed well away from any structures or overhangs.
That includes tree branches and vegetation. A stable surface is also
ideal to prevent tipovers. If you have active young children, these
might not be the best idea, either.
Material Considerations
Cast aluminum
and cast iron are the most popular materials in chimeneas and pits
for many reasons. The former is lighter in weight and an economical
investment for home use. The latter is generally popular in commercial
locations. They'll last much longer, but are not as easily relocated
when the wind changes direction or you want to cart it to another
location. Cast iron will eventually begin to rust while cast aluminum
does not.
Copper is another
choice that is very beautiful when new and as it develops its characteristic
patina. Any of the above choices is excellent for longevity and minimal
care.
Clay chimeneas
may provide plenty of ambience, but they're simply not as safe to
use as other material choices. They also require careful maintenance,
or they'll disintegrate. You can still enjoy this great style along
with hearths and pits, though.
Some models also
include grilling racks, so you can throw on hot dogs or other foods
over an open fire.
Find Your
Style
Chimeneas as very
decorative and bring traditional Mexican appeal to your outdoor decor.
Because of their taller chimney stacks and single openings, smoke
drifts up and away, making it more pleasant to sit and enjoy the heat.
Beware smaller stacks as they won't be as efficient in wisping the
smoke away.
In many ways,
chimeneas are much safer than pits and hearths, which makes them generally
legal to use about everywhere. A sudden gust won't cause a spray of
sparks due to the closed bulb design.
Hearth styles
can be enclosed with a single opening or feature an open "surround"
design. Everyone can enjoy the flames from every angle. The drawbacks
are smoke and faster heat dissipation, which means more work tending
to the logs. This is also part of the fire hazard as wind can send
dangerous sparks flying. The same applies to open ring styles. Check
with local authorities to be sure these are not illegal to use in
your area.
Consider a propane
or gas unit, if you have the facilities, and you can enjoy fake logs
- not the real thing, but much safer. Gel inserts can also give you
a glow. If you're grilling, briquettes will provide a fast and hotter
fire.
Wood - the
Real Deal
The aroma wafting
from a wood-burning fire is so enticing. You should use only firewood
that would go in an indoor fireplace or be acceptable for a smoker.
That means seasoned hardwoods only. Never use green wood, treated
lumber, or evergreens.