If you’re looking to add a unique and stylish feature to your wooden deck, then considering adding a chiminea. Traditional chimineas were fireplaces that functioned as ovens for heating and cooking. They were made of clay and shaped like large vases with a wide round bottom. Chimineas have been around for about four hundred years.
Today, chimeneas make for a great piece that adds a refined and distinct taste to a backyard setting. This type of fireplace is charming, and it’s the one I consider quite a useful and satisfying investment for your home.
7 Best Chimineas for Wood Decks
1. Deckmate Sonora Outdoor Chimenea Fireplace 
The cast iron Sonora looks great and functions well, which makes it well worth the price. Its exterior is painted with a high-temperature resistant finish that adds to its elegant look. It’s great for heating and lighting up large spaces. It gives you a full 360-degree view of the fire through a beautifully crafted fine mesh screen. This chimineas large size allows it to burn wood for a longer time.
The Sonora has a conveniently large sliding door for adding fuel and an ash catcher for easy cleanup. It also has a cap on the top to keep out rain and debris.
- Dimensions: 21 x 21 x 51.6 inches
- Weighs 75 pounds
- Log grate and fire tool included
2. BALI OUTDOORS Outdoor Fireplace Wooden Fire Pit
The Bali Outdoors chiminea is one of the best overall options. With a 360 view, you can place it right in the middle of your deck, allowing everyone to enjoy the warmth and watch the flames.
The fairly priced Bali Outdoors chiminea features a heavy-duty cast iron body. It is very durable, with sturdy cast iron legs that give it very good stability and elevation. The fire cage offers plenty of room for a 16-inch log. The cage is equipped with a sliding door that gives you wide access. It also has an ashtray for quick cleaning.
The rounded roof is designed to protect you and your companions from being smothered by the smoke. And, it comes equipped with a protective rain cap as well.
- Easy assembly
- Wood-burner
- Dimensions 22 x 22 x 45 inches
- Weighs 52.9 pounds
3. Sunnydaze Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit Chiminea
This steel-based chiminea makes for a great addition to a wooden deck. Its simple black design offers a modern and attractive look that suits many settings. This heavy-duty chiminea can be enjoyed from every angle because of its 360-degree view. The rain cap and flue grill are removable for easy cleanup. It also comes with a cover to protect it when it’s not in use.
- Easy assembly
- Includes all necessary tools
- 1-year warranty
- Dimensions: 22 x 22 x 57 inches
- Weighs 39.4 pounds
4. Deckmate Corona Outdoor Chimenea Fireplace
This chiminea is available in both steel and cast iron designs. The classic color goes well with any surrounding décor. It also has a full 360 view of the fire. The fire cage is large and can fit a 16-inch log. All models come fitted with a steel mesh screen that keeps the embers contained. It’s also designed to keep rain and debris out. And the steel grate allows for proper ventilation.
- Easy to maintain
- Tool included for shifting fuel
- Fireplace stands at 35 inches high (16.34 x 16.34 x 11.4 inches)
- Weighs about 35 pounds
5. Sunnydaze Steel Outdoor Wood Burning Chiminea Fire Pit
This steel chiminea has a neutral appearance that suits any type of setting, from retro to more modern styles. It’s also lightweight, which makes it easy to move. It features a fire chamber that’s big enough to accommodate different sizes of wood. It also has a storage shelf under the fire area, which makes it easy to have kindling ready to keep the fire burning.
- Easy assembly
- 1-year warranty
- Includes a fire poker
- Dimensions: 14.25 x 14.25 x 49.25 inches
- Weighs 20.6 pounds
6. Outdoor Durable Cast Iron Antique Bronze Fire Pit
For an antique and rustic design, this is one of your better options. This cast iron chiminea offers a 360-degree view of the fire as well. It may be one of the cheapest chimineas in the market, but its build quality is quite decent. If you want something small and simple, then this one may be a good chiminea option for you and your deck.
- Dimensions: 22.8 x 22.8 x 45.7 inches
- Weighs about 60 pounds
7. Uniflame Firehouse with Chimney
This Uniflame chiminea features a classy black finish. It is painted with a high-temperature enamel. This durable cast iron chiminea also gives you a great view of the flames with a 360-degree screen.
It features a big chimney that effectively directs smoke and ash upwards. The Uniflame chiminea comes with a cast-iron gate and a chrome-plated cooking grate. It also has a removable ashtray for easy cleaning.
- Dimensions 25 x 20.1 x 43.3 inches
- Weighs 44 Pounds
How to Protect a Chiminea on a Wooden Deck?
Place The Chiminea on a Fireproof Floor Protector
Wood is flammable, which is why you will need a protective structure or mat for a chiminea. There are fire pit mats that are specially made to withstand extremely high temperatures and protect the surrounding area from the heat. The Diversitech Fire Pit Mat is a perfect pick. The base of a chiminea can potentially set fire to materials such as wood and grass.
So, make sure to place it on a safe structure. You can arrange bricks, concrete blocks, or paver stones around the area where you plan to place the chiminea to protect it and the surroundings from accidental burning. You could also use other fire-resistant surface materials such as sand, terracotta tiles, and slate tiles. Be creative on your deck!
Keep it Away From Flammable Objects
Do not place your chiminea under a lawn shade or awning. The draft that comes up out of the stack could start a fire. Keep the chiminea a few feet away from any objects, walls, branches, and vegetation that are within reach of its heat emissions. When on a wooden deck, make sure you keep the chiminea away from any deck rails, furniture, bbq propane tanks, and any other potential fire hazard.
Install a Spark Arrestor
You may also place a spark arrestor at the top of a chiminea’s stack to keep sparks from accidentally starting fires. A spark arrestor protects your surroundings, neighbors, and family from burns and possible fires. Spark arrestors are relatively easy to make. You can actually make one out of chicken wire. It also makes the process of tending the fire more simple and safe.
Do Not Make Fires That Are Too Large
Chimineas are not designed to handle and produce excessively large fires. Such may damage the chiminea. because Too much heat can cause the walls to crack and shatter, or even cause the whole unit to blow up. You can monitor and measure the flames by watching the front opening or stack. If the fire is burning too wildly and the sparks are flying everywhere, quickly remove some of the kindling material until the fire calms down.
Avoid Using it During Very Dry Weather
Very dry weather makes the surrounding ground and materials extra flammable. Such circumstances can make fires spread quickly. Also, the sparks that come from the chiminea are more prone to starting fires in the bushes and surrounding grass during dry seasons. So, avoid using the chiminea under these conditions.
Use the Right Kindling and Tinder for Your Chiminea
Using fuel, gasoline, and lighter fluid is a quick way of starting a fire, but these can also quickly make fires uncontrollably wild. Be sure to use proper kindling materials like wood, paper, or charcoal. Using natural kindling gives you better control over the fire.
The Different Types of Chimineas To Choose From
Clay – A clay-based chiminea is the least expensive option. Though clay chimineas are resistant to heat and water, they are vulnerable to sudden temperature changes and physical damages. They are prone to cracking, specifically during cold weather. But here are a few steps you could take to reduce the chances of cracking in a clay chiminea:
- Firstly, the clay chiminea needs to undergo curing.
- Next, get a proper cover that’ll protect it during winter.
- Lastly, proper maintenance and using the right kindling will ensure your clay chiminea lasts a lot longer.
The newer clay chimineas are formed from heavily grogged clay. These are much more durable, designed to withstand sudden temperature changes.
Cast Iron – Cast iron is the most durable material for a chiminea. Cast iron chimineas are less susceptible to damages from sudden temperature changes and physical damages. They are also generally heavier, which means they are more stable and not easily knocked over.
The main problem with a cast iron chiminea is its vulnerability to rusting. But this is easily prevented through regular maintenance and using a good cover. They could also be placed in a shed when not in use to prevent any outdoor elements from potentially starting unwanted maintenance issues.
Cast Aluminum- Cast aluminum is usually the go-to for a lot of buyers. They’re not as cheap as other types, but they have many features that make them ideal. Some of the benefits of getting a cast aluminum chiminea are:
- Availability in both gas and wood-burning functions
- Minimal maintenance requirements
- Lighter in weight compared to other types of chimineas
- Full resistance to rust and corrosion
Copper – Copper is another respectable and functional choice for a chiminea. Copper chimineas are not ideal for heavy use though. Their pop rivets are prone to wearing out and they require more maintenance work regularly. But, the cost for a copper chiminea is worth it if you’re going for the unique and old-fashioned style.
Stainless Steel – Stainless steel chimineas are perhaps the cheapest chimineas available. One downside is that stainless steel chimineas typically require assembling. But its pretty straightforward to put them togetehr.
Chiminea Shapes and Designs
Each type of material has its benefits and range of design options. This gives you the freedom of choosing one that can also function as an art piece that accentuates your wooden deck. Just make sure to enclose it, with limited room for fire embers to fly out.
Traditional & Old-Fashioned
1. Clay is a popular choice because of its rustic and traditional style. Clay chimineas come in various sizes and décor. You can get painted ones or opt for one that’s simple and plain. Clay chimineas don’t usually come equipped with a grill, but you can buy cooking accessories for it.
2. If you’re looking for an alternate retro and antique style, then a copper chiminea is a nice alternative to the clay. Copper gains a patina and tint that simulates age.
Modern & Contemporary
3. Cast iron chimineas are ideal for cooking and grilling. Most cast-iron chimineas come equipped with a grill. These come in many sleek and stylish colors and designs, making them perfect and great for a modern, trendy, and elegant outdoor or indoor home theme.
4. A cast aluminum chiminea is well reputed for its versatility and design. Cast aluminum offers a more modern look. They are ideal for indoor use as well.
5. Stainless steel units aren’t as durable as other chimineas. They are cheap to replace and are ideal choices for a portable chiminea. They are perfect for camping, weekend getaways, and parties. Stainless steel chimineas also come in various shapes and designs, and they are perfect alternatives for regular cooking use.
These three types of modern looking chimineas are the ideal types for baking, grilling, and even making pizzas. The perfect modern touch to your contemporary home.
Why Buy A Chiminea?
Chiminea’s not only make for an attractive centrepiece but they also offer many benefits. Here are some reasons to buy a chiminea for your wood deck:
Safety
A chiminea is generally safer than other heating options. The overall design of the chiminea prevents the smoke from affecting the people sitting around it. The flames in a chiminea are well controlled and are directed up and outward a smartly designed stack.
Chimineas typically have an enclosed fire, which prevents sparks or ash from spreading out, perfect for on the wood deck. They are safer for families, especially around children, just make sure they don’t touch the hot surface. A chiminea also requires less tending, which eliminates plenty of safety hazards.
Fire Efficiency & Less Monitoring Requirements
Chimineas are designed to efficiently increase the use of fire. The structure allows them to use less wood and produce less smoke while still providing sufficient heat. Chimineas can burn for a long time without needing constant monitoring, save for keeping one or two small logs in the flame. This is because they were originally intended for baking bread.
The bowl and stack of a chiminea are made to create a natural draft. The natural draft keeps the fire burning by itself. Once you set up a small fire in a chiminea, you are free to sit back and relish the time with your companions and family. The chiminea’s efficiency and versatility also save you money in the long run.
The versatility of design and function
The design and materials used for a chiminea make it suitable for any area in the outdoor section of a home. A gas type chiminea can even be placed indoors and serve as an alternative heating source for your living room area.
The variety of designs and materials definitely provides you with a good range of options that fit your surroundings best. A chiminea not only adds style to your deck, but it also keeps you pleasantly warm. It makes for an ideal focal point in your outdoor setting. Chimineas add a new dimension wherever it is placed. Whether you’re looking for a rustic, traditional, or modern look, there is a chiminea that is sure to meet your taste.
Final Thoughts
Just be careful using a chiminea on a wood deck. You could probably get away with some chiminea designs without a protector underneath, but for your own safety, you should have something to prevent any issues.
I hope this guide has helped you find the best chiminea for your outdoor space and maybe teach you a few tips and tricks. A chiminea is a beautiful fire pit option and I wouldn’t blame you for choosing it over other style outdoor fire pits.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.