Is Cast Aluminum the Best Material for Chimineas?

Your backyard landscape should be enjoyed at all times of the year, so when cooler weather rolls around, a suitable heating option is necessary. Fire features have become very elaborate over the last decade—far gone are the days of an old tire ring. Fire pits have surely evolved to be the most popular choice for bringing the heat. 

But a chiminea is a sexy and more unique way to keep your outdoor space toasty on chilly evenings and add a new decorative centerpiece. 

What is a Chiminea?

A Chiminea is traditionally made of clay with a round and hollow base and a long chimney neck going upwards. It came from Mexico initially, but the design was so classic that it’s evolved into a staple heater and decoration worldwide.

Fuel like wood or charcoal can be burned in the hollow base, fed in from the front, and funnels all smoke upwards in a chimney neck. This leaves you with pure heat and no smoke that goes right into your face at the change of wind. 

Some modern chiminea designs allow for gas to be burned, letting you keep the chiminea indoors without fear of a fire hazard.

A Look at the Material Choices for Chimineas

The basic design of the chiminea has remained the same for centuries. It’s stylish, efficient, and can be used for more than just heating.

Clay

The original clay-style chiminea holds and distributes warmth well but it, unfortunately, doesn’t last forever, especially out in the elements. 

It is actually recommended not to leave a clay chiminea out over the winter. It must be seasoned and cared for regularly to avoid any cracking due to moisture or high temperatures. 

Cast-Iron

Cast-iron chimineas weigh a ton but can last a very long time. It’s a big commitment since moving one can be physically harmful. Once you place it, it’s there for a while.

It isn’t prone to rust unless it isn’t fully cast-iron in nature, a tactic that tries to cut corners with production prices. 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel chimineas are very common. This is probably because they are cheap and easy to transport. You’ll find these at any home and garden store.

Beware, stainless steel will rust quickly, especially if it’s left out in the weather. Rust stains aren’t exceptionally stylish when they’re on your patio or deck. 

Cast Aluminum

Cast aluminum chimineas are considered to be the best option for a stylish, functional, and long-lasting heating source for an outdoor space. The cast aluminum doesn’t rust when exposed to the elements and has various finishes for different tastes.

You can choose what type of fuel you’d like a cast aluminum chiminea to burn, and they often come with the capacity to be gas-powered. 

Cast aluminum weighs less than a clay or cast iron design does, allowing you some more freedom to where you want to place it. Excellent if you like to redesign your space to keep it looking updated. 

Buying a Cast Aluminum Chiminea

The internet makes it easy to find and purchase anything you want, including high-quality cast aluminum chimineas, which you might not have been expecting to search anytime soon.  

Here are a couple of popular aluminum chiminea options available to purchase from the reputable brand The Blue Rooster. This company offers top-quality and stylish cast aluminum chimineas that can’t be found elsewhere.

The Blue Rooster has high-end and unique cast aluminium chimineas as well as cast-iron and various gas-burning models as well. They’re a great place to start looking for a chiminea that suits your personal style.

The Blue Rooster: Prairie Chiminea

The Prairie chiminea is a sleek yet classic model that allows it to be integrated into almost any outdoor area. The charcoal black finish is bold and classy, it also features a grate on the front for safety and handles on each side for easy moving.

The build pays homage to the traditional clay chimineas, but without the added upkeep. 

With a lifetime warranty, this chiminea is an all-around great addition to your outdoor space.

Find it on Amazon here.

The Blue Rooster: Venetian Grill

This chiminea has a regal style and charcoal black finish that will keep your patio warm any time of year. The round base keeps it sturdy and stable, allowing you to remove the top chimney to use it as a grill, if you desire.

It shares the same benefits of the Prairie model, and you can find it here on Amazon.

The Blue Rooster: Dragonfly Chiminea

Keeping in line with the quality of the prior models, the Dragonfly has imprinted patterns of leaves and dragonflies on it, making it a perfect addition to any garden patio.

It is available in three different finishes, charcoal, gold accents, and antique green.

You can find the Charcoal model here on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

An aluminum chiminea is a great option for a variety of outdoor spaces, adding a charming, long lasting accent and added warmth. 

With so many different style options, you can take special care in finding the perfect chiminea for your outdoor area.