FAQ's

How do chimineas compare to fire pits?

A fire pit is classified as a “Recreational Fire”, much like a ring of rocks, whereas a enclosed chiminea is classified as a “Outdoor Portable Fireplace”. Blue Rooster chimineas may also be classified as “Cooking Devices” due to the cooking grates and enclosed design. There are many fire pits incorrectly advertised as chimineas. They have mesh wraparounds, multi openings, and faux chimneys that only funnel smoke and have no effect on the fire. Due to lack of proper engineering, a mislabeled fire pit will never draft properly. Fire pits have a tendency to be hard to light and smoke/smolder due to not having proper drafting. Fire pits also have safety concerns regarding the possibility of a sudden gust of wind blowing embers into dry grass, deck, or a neighbor’s property.

Where to use it?

A properly designed chiminea with mouth screen is considered an enclosed burning device. Often, they can be used where open fires are not allowed. They also classify as cooking devices with the grate inserts and should be allowed wherever a gas grill is accepted.

Maintenance?

Just like a car that needs an oil change now and then, a chiminea requires occasional ash clean out to keep it burning clean.

What color chiminea is the best?

Most wood burning chiminea buyers stick with the charcoal color since the soot and ash buildup turns a colored chiminea charcoal. The effects of sun and weather will also wear down the factory paint over time and high temperature firings eventually darken colored chimineas. BBQ spray paint is a quick fix for regular maintenance of cast iron, steel and cast aluminum parts.

The Blue Rooster chimineas all start with 3 layers of high temp charcoal (black) fireplace paint. The color finishes are then applied to create a patina finish. High temp spray paint is available at your local home store or hardware store in a variety of colors. High temp spray paint can be applied in just a few minutes and will keep your chiminea looking brand new.

Should I place something under my chiminea?

We recommend using a deck protector hearth pad. A chiminea does not direct much heat downward, but the occasional ember or ash will happen with any fire. For a more permanent pad use cement blocks or pavers available at any local outdoor garden store. Four 18x18 patio blocks make a three-foot hearth pad that works great to protect your surface from an ember or stray ash.

How long do Blue Rooster Chimineas last?

With proper use and maintenance our chimineas will last for many years. Blue Rooster has made metal chimineas for over 20 years and most are still in use.